STD Testing Specialist

What are sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?

STDs are diseases passed to others during sexual contact. Among the most common STDs are:

• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Syphilis
• Trichomoniasis
• Genital herpes
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
• Hepatitis B

Both genders can get STDs, but women are especially vulnerable to STD complications, such as pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility. You can also pass an STD to your developing baby during pregnancy. These are all excellent reasons to have STD testing. 

When might I need STD testing?

If you have an STD, you may not have symptoms right away. That’s one reason that the Women’s Health Specialists, PLLC, team recommends STD screenings during women’s wellness visits. It’s an integral part of preventive care for anyone who’s sexually active or has been in the past. 

If you experience any new symptoms between your annual checkups, for example, unusual vaginal discharge, itching, burning, pain during urination, pain during sex, or other recent issues, you may need STD testing to help uncover the cause. 

How does STD testing work?

STD testing usually involves blood and urine samples; for certain issues, such as unusual vaginal discharge, the team may collect a swab of the fluid. 

STD testing is generally an easy process, and the Women’s Health Specialists, PLLC, team always strives to maintain your comfort and protect your privacy during the entire process. 

What does STD treatment involve?

If you test positive for an STD, the team can outline all your treatment options and help you make the right choices for your personal needs. You may need to take oral medication, like antibiotics, to treat many STDs. In many cases, you might require just one large dose of antibiotics. 

Some STDs require antiviral medications, but with diseases like herpes, you still have the virus (and can still pass it to others), so it’s important to use protection during sexual encounters. 

While some STDs aren’t curable, there are options for safe disease management. The team can support you and help you live a healthy life, even with a chronic STD.

Women’s Health Specialists, PLLC, believes that every woman deserves compassionate and nonjudgmental care, so don’t hesitate to ask about STD testing. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today.