Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are common around the world and have an overall negative impact on a person’s health. Luckily, most STDs are easily treatable, and getting tested is the best way to get help and prevent the spread.
If you’ve never had an STD test before, you probably have a few questions about what to expect. Don’t worry - we have all the information you need right here. Keep reading for STD testing FAQs for new patients.
FAQs
1. When should I get tested?
You should get tested for STDs if you are experiencing any symptoms that could be an STD. If you think you have an infection, make sure not to have sex with your partner/s until you have your results.
Even if you don’t have symptoms, experts recommend getting tested annually if you are sexually active and each time you have a new sexual partner.
2.Won’t I know if I have an STD?
No, you won’t always know if you have a sexual infection. Some people show no symptoms at all, depending on the disease. Getting tested is the only way to know for sure if you have an STD.
3.How soon after exposure can I get tested?
If a recent sexual partner has told you that they have tested positive for an STD, you should get tested soon. However, keep in mind that some infections won’t show up on a lab screening until several weeks after exposure. If you test negative after just a few days, make sure to test again at six weeks to verify you don’t have an STD.
4.How much does an STD test cost?
The costs of an STD test will vary depending on your chosen provider. STD testing is often offered by health clinics, a doctor’s office, and urgent care centers.
5.Does my insurance cover it?
Most of the time, insurance companies will cover STD testing as a preventative health measure. You should check with your insurance provider and your policy.
6.How does STD testing work?
There are several different sexually transmitted diseases that you can test for, and the methods will be different for some of them. STD testing might include a urine test, a cheek swab, or a blood test.
7.How will I get my results?
Some results may be ready after just 20 minutes. Other test results may take up to a week. This depends on what infections you are testing for.
8.Is my STD test confidential?
Yes, your STD test and results are entirely confidential. Medical providers will not share them with anyone, regardless of relationship to the patient.
If you still have remaining questions about STD testing, or you’d like to book a test, get in touch with your local urgent care center for information or an appointment!
And if you need to get STD testing today then make sure that you visit AFC Urgent Care Fairfield to get high-quality, private, and discrete testing from our expert provider team!
