If you are sexually active, it is important to get tested regularly. STDs affect men and women of all ages. Often, they are transmitted because neither partner knows one is infected in the first place. Getting tested not only ensures your health but the health of your partner. Additionally, STD’s are much easier to treat when caught early. Unfortunately, early stages of these diseases rarely show any symptoms. Early detection not only is the key to successful treatment, but it is far more cost effective. When STDs progress to more advanced stages, they not only present more overt symptoms but are also more difficult to treat. These symptoms can cause permanent damage or even death.