STD Testing

If you’re sexually active, you’re susceptible to contracting a sexually transmitted disease (STD). STDs don’t always cause symptoms, which can make them particularly dangerous. If you’re infected, you unknowingly spread them to your partner. 

If you are symptomatic, signs of an STD include:

• Flu-like symptoms, like swollen glands and extreme fatigue
• Sores, blisters, or bumps on your inner thighs, buttocks, or genitals
• Abnormal discharge from your vagina or penis
• Burning while urinating
• An unusual odor from your genitals 

STDs do not resolve on their own. They are easily transmittable, cause uncomfortable symptoms, and can cause infertility or cancer.

If you’re sexually active, STD testing is necessary. This is especially true if you have multiple partners or use intravenous drugs. Even if you’re in a monogamous relationship, arrange to get tested at the onset of the relationship. This is important because prior relationships may have caused infection in you or your partner.

If you engage in oral or anal sexual intercourse, STD testing is still important.

If you’re showing symptoms of an STD, halt sexual activity and get tested right away.

STD testing involves gathering a sample of fluids or tissues to test for:

• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
• Hepatitis B
• Gonorrhea
• Chlamydia 
• Syphilis 

You benefit from annual STD testing and may require more frequent testing if you have multiple sexual partners. Don’t assume your regular physicals or women’s/men’s health appointments include STD testing. You need to request to have the testing done.

If you are diagnosed with an STD, the team at Innovation Medical Group Southwest Territory will help you get treatment. Some infections can be cleared up with antibiotics or antiviral drugs. Other STDs aren’t curable but can be successfully managed, so they have minimal impact on your quality of life. 

Make sure you inform your sex partners of a positive diagnosis. This prevents them from potentially passing the STD back to you or others.