Published on Sep 19, 2025 | 1:44 PM
For many people, one of the biggest barriers to getting tested or treated for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) isn’t the illness itself.
It’s the fear of judgment.
STDs carry a heavy stigma. People worry about what their friends, partners, or even healthcare providers will think.
Questions like “Will they see me differently?” or “Does this mean I made a mistake?” often stop people from reaching out for care.
But here’s the truth: STDs are common. Millions of people are diagnosed each year, and many never had symptoms to warn them. Having an STD doesn’t define your character, your worth, or your future.
Fear of reactions can lead to silence, secrecy, and delays in treatment. Unfortunately, that only increases the risk of complications—like infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, or passing an infection to a partner unknowingly.
This is why breaking the stigma matters. Seeking care isn’t shameful—it’s responsible.
Healthcare professionals are trained to treat STDs with the same compassion and professionalism as any other condition. We’re not here to judge—we’re here to help.
Testing is confidential. Treatment is effective. And having open conversations with your provider means you’re taking control of your health.
We understand that fear of social judgment is real. That’s why CallOnDoc makes it easier than ever to seek care privately.
You deserve care without judgment. And with discreet telehealth options, you can get treated quickly, privately, and confidently.
When symptoms won’t wait, neither should you.
Your symptoms don’t wait. Instant access to care. Prescriptions in 15.
Your health should always come before stigma. STDs are treatable, manageable, and nothing to be ashamed of. By choosing care, you’re choosing your wellbeing—and that’s something to be proud of.
Shelly House, FNP, is a Family Nurse Practitioner and Call-On-Doc’s trusted medical education voice. With extensive experience in telehealth and patient-centered care, Ms. House is dedicated to making complex health topics simple and accessible. Through evidence-based content, provider collaboration, and a passion for empowering patients, her mission is to break down barriers to healthcare by delivering clear, compassionate, and practical medical guidance.
Risks Associated With Leaving STDs Untreated
Leaving sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) untreated can have serious consequences, as many STDs can lead to long-term health complications such as infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, and an increased risk of HIV transmission. Additionally, some STDs can progress silently without noticeable symptoms, emphasizing the importance of early detection and treatment to prevent further health risks and potential transmission to others.
Jun 29, 2022 | 3:37 PM
Read MoreGet Treated for STDs Without Testing
In certain clinical situations, sexually transmitted disease (STD) treatment without testing is considered medically appropriate and consistent with current public health guidelines. This approach is called empiric treatment.
Empiric treatment is commonly used when:
A patient has classic STD symptoms
A recent sexual partner tested positive
Testing is unavailable or delayed
Immediate treatment is needed to prevent complications or transmission
Apr 18, 2023 | 1:20 PM
Read MoreSTD Symptoms in Men
STIs and STDs, which are sometimes collectively referred to as STDs, are more common in men than many realize. Many men assume they would know if they had an STD, but some infections remain silent for weeks, months, or even years. Without testing and treatment, an infection can be unknowingly transmitted or lead to serious health complications like infertility or chronic pain
Understanding common symptoms, practicing prevention strategies, and getting tested regularly are essential for maintaining sexual health.
Feb 06, 2025 | 10:10 AM
Read MoreRisks Associated With Leaving STDs Untreated
Leaving sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) untreated can have serious consequences, as many STDs can lead to long-term health complications such as infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, and an increased risk of HIV transmission. Additionally, some STDs can progress silently without noticeable symptoms, emphasizing the importance of early detection and treatment to prevent further health risks and potential transmission to others.
Jun 29, 2022 | 3:37 PM
Get Treated for STDs Without Testing
In certain clinical situations, sexually transmitted disease (STD) treatment without testing is considered medically appropriate and consistent with current public health guidelines. This approach is called empiric treatment.
Empiric treatment is commonly used when:
A patient has classic STD symptoms
A recent sexual partner tested positive
Testing is unavailable or delayed
Immediate treatment is needed to prevent complications or transmission
Apr 18, 2023 | 1:20 PM
STD Symptoms in Men
STIs and STDs, which are sometimes collectively referred to as STDs, are more common in men than many realize. Many men assume they would know if they had an STD, but some infections remain silent for weeks, months, or even years. Without testing and treatment, an infection can be unknowingly transmitted or lead to serious health complications like infertility or chronic pain
Understanding common symptoms, practicing prevention strategies, and getting tested regularly are essential for maintaining sexual health.
Feb 06, 2025 | 10:10 AM
Feedback from our amazing patients!
"I can’t believe I did not know about this kind of service! This was absolutely perfect for my health concern and they were able to provide me with the necessary medication and with such cinch. Completely recommended this service. For minor health concerns, this can save you an unnecessary and costly trip to an urgent care center."
"Amazing!! Easy and fast! I didn’t have to take my 4 year old into an urgent care where only god knows what germs are there. The doctor sent the script right to my pharmacy within minutes!!!"
"I would give 10 stars if I could! CallonDoc is literally the reason I am recovering instead of suffering as I write this. I was skeptical at first, but I’m not kidding when I tell you I got prescribed my antibiotics and picked it up at the pharmacy within 2 hours. So instead of waiting & paying around 300$...I paid 40$!! I’m very pleased."
Want to learn about a specific topic or condition?