Breaking the Stigma of STD Testing

We know that talking about STD testing and treatment can be awkward and uncomfortable, but it's important to address the stigma surrounding sexually transmitted diseases and infections. When people feel ashamed or embarrassed to get help, it can seriously affect their long-term health.

Did you know that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports about 20 million new STD infections in the US each year and that half of them to happen to people ages 15-24?1 It's a crazy high number, so raising awareness and encouraging regular testing is essential.

Remember, having an STD doesn't define you as a person. STDs do not single you out based on age, gender, or sexual orientation.

Getting tested can be nerve-wracking, but it's a responsible and proactive step toward taking care of yourself and others. The first step is to educate ourselves and discuss STDs openly with our loved ones to break down the stigma.

If you're sexually active, talk with your partner(s) about getting tested. Find a healthcare provider who specializes in sexual health and to who you feel comfortable talking. Don't be afraid to ask questions or express your concerns.

It's also important to know that some STDs can be asymptomatic, meaning you won't experience noticeable symptoms even if you're infected. If you think you may be at risk, it's best to refrain from sexual contact until you're tested and cleared. Untreated STDs can lead to complications such as infertility and chronic pain, so regular testing is crucial for protecting your health and preventing the spreading of infections. 2

At Collage, you can get tested and treated for two of the most common bacterial STDs, chlamydia and gonorrhea, for free! We provide compassionate and non-judgmental care to all our patients. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact us by email or phone. Let's work together to break down barriers and encourage open communication about sexual health.

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Will My Insurance Pay for My Girlfriend's Abortion Pill?

August 11, 2026

If your girlfriend is facing an unexpected pregnancy and considering the abortion pill, you're probably wondering about costs and whether insurance will cover it. Before considering the abortion pill, it’s vital that your girlfriend receives an ultrasound. We offer these at no cost with no insurance necessary. She can schedule a free, confidential appointment online at Collage. Can Your Insurance Cover Her? Health insurance covers the policyholder and enrolled dependents. A girlfriend typically isn't a covered dependent on your plan, which means your insurance generally won't pay for her medical care. The exception is if she's been added to your plan as a domestic partner and your employer allows that. Additionally, you may be able to extend insurance coverage to her after marriage if your policy allows this as a qualifying event. However, the chances of insurance covering an elective abortion are unlikely. What About Her Own Insurance in Nebraska? Under Nebraska law , standard health insurance plans in the state cannot cover elective abortion unless the insured purchases a separate abortion rider. Medicaid in Nebraska covers abortion only in limited circumstances. In most cases, the abortion pill in Nebraska will be an out-of-pocket cost. What She Should Know About the Drug The abortion pill uses two drugs. The first, mifepristone , blocks progesterone, a hormone required to sustain the pregnancy. The second, misoprostol , taken a day or two later, causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy tissue. The FDA approves this drug regimen through 10 weeks of gestation. Nebraska law also requires that the abortion pill be prescribed and administered in person by a physician. Complications can include heavy bleeding, infection , incomplete abortion, and digestive system discomfort. If the drug does not fully end the pregnancy, a follow-up procedure might be required. Getting the Facts First A free ultrasound at Collage confirms your girlfriend’s gestational age, whether the pregnancy is in the uterus, and whether the pregnancy is progressing. An ectopic pregnancy (when the pregnancy implants outside the uterus) requires different medical treatment than abortion, and could be life-threatening if left untreated. An ultrasound can rule out this complication. Schedule a free, confidential appointment at Collage today. Call: 308.234.9880 in Kearney or 308.675.2217 in Grand Island. *All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing. **Collage does not provide or refer for abortions; however, we do offer pre-abortion screening through our no-cost services.

Young woman thoughtfully learning about the abortion pill before making a pregnancy decision.

Understanding Abortion Pills: What to Know

July 21, 2026

Learn how the abortion pill works and what to expect. Colllage center offers free pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and more. Contact us.

Why Does an Ultrasound Matter Before an Abortion?

June 28, 2026

If you're considering abortion, there's one medical step that protects your health before anything else. An ultrasound confirms your pregnancy and provides information that a positive test alone cannot.