STDs On The Rise | Video

Sarahbeth Ackerman | 2/1/2013

Sexual transmitted diseases are steadily on the rise in the Minot area. According to First District Health, STDs are higher in women than in men. Nurse practitioners are saying they could be seeing higher rates in women because they are making frequent visits to get tested.

"But, it`s the men that fall through the cracks. Men typically don`t go to the doctor on an annual basis. So, we do encourage all of our clients to come in at least once a year. Even if they are not having any symptoms, just to be screened. But, typically, it`s the women that follow up. Not the men," said Lacey McNichols, a registered nurse with First District Health.

McNichols says people who ignore their annual screenings or even some symptoms of STDs, can lead to long term damage, such as infertility in both men and women.

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