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Do I Need to Get Tested for STDs Before an Abortion?
- Options for Women
- Aug 1, 2022
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 23, 2025
It’s a subject no one really wants to talk about. We get it. However, protecting yourself against STDs is a way you can protect the future you want for yourself, too.
While we advocate for getting tested any time you have had unprotected sex or changed partners, ruling out an STI or STD before an abortion can protect you from serious complications.
Why do I need to get tested before an abortion?
During an abortion, the cervix is opened. If you have an infection, this can increase the risk of the STI spreading into other organs. Having an abortion procedure while infected with chlamydia or gonorrhea, two of the most common STIs, can lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). PID can cause lifelong damage and lead to future ectopic pregnancies or infertility.
What are the most common STD/STI symptoms?
Common Signs and Symptoms
Clear, white, greenish, or yellowish vaginal discharge
Strong vaginal odor
Itching or irritation inside the vagina
Pain during sexual intercourse
Painful urination
If you are pregnant and considering an abortion, contact us today for free STI testing of chlamydia and gonorrhea and their treatments.
We can also provide in-clinic pregnancy testing and ultrasound confirmation so you can know how far along you are, if the pregnancy is occurring inside the uterus and which options are available to you.
What are the most common STDs & STIs?
Because many STDs do not show any symptoms, you may not even know you are infected. Below are some of the most common STDs and the characteristics associated with each.
Chlamydia
Chlamydia is one of the most common STDs, with more than 90 million cases reported each year globally and more than half of those cases occurring in women. If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to PID (pelvic inflammatory disease) and puts women at high risk for infertility and ectopic pregnancies. While chlamydia is treatable with antibiotics, many women never experience any symptoms.
Gonorrhea
The main symptom of gonorrhea is a thick discharge from the penis or vagina. However, approximately 50% of women will not experience any symptoms at all. Gonorrhea may also infect the rectum, throat, eyes, blood, skin, and joints. Most strains of gonorrhea can be cured, but there is a new strain that is currently resistant to all antibiotics.
How much does it cost?
For all patients, those considering abortion or carrying, we provide free STI testing and treatment. Make an appointment today. All messages and appointments are confidential.
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