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Sexually Transmitted Disease Program

Our Mission

The mission of the Ingham County Sexually Transmitted Infection Program is to reduce and prevent the transmission of STI/HIV infections in our county. We accomplish this by providing clinical services in the strictest of confidence to all county residents who seek care and/or education for the prevention of STIs. Our clinic sites offer STD services for a resonable and/or no-cost basis to adults and adolescents, regardless of their ability to pay.

All persons are assured confidential STI clinical services, which includes risk assessment, physical examinations, STI testing, treatment and counseling. The risk assessment helps to identify sexual behaviors and other risky behaviors that increase the chances of becoming infected with an STD. Our program also strives to be a leader and resource for health care in and around Ingham County by providing technical assistance, prevention education, and the promotion of collaborative opportunities.

 

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Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

The term sexually transmitted disease is used to cover the more than 25-30 infectious organisms that are spread through sexual activity. Anyone can have an STI. Sexually transmitted infections are almost always spread from person to person by sexual activity. These infections are most easily spread by vaginal or anal intercourse, and sometimes through oral sex. Some STDs can also be spread through blood, particularly among intravenous (IV) drug users who may be sharing drug equipment (needles, syringes, or "works"). In addition, pregnant women with STDs may pass their infection to infants in the uterus (womb), during birth or through breastfeeding.

Many people with STDs have no symptoms. Without treatment these diseases can lead to major health problems such as not being able to get pregnant (infertility), permanent brain damage, heart disease, cancer and even death. If you think you have been exposed to a sexually transmitted disease, you and your sex partners should visit a health clinic, hospital or doctor for testing and treatment.