No one enjoys talking about a sexually transmitted infection (STI), otherwise known as a sexually transmitted disease (STD). It's difficult enough to manage an STD, but it makes it even harder to open up about it.
STDs are very common, and with many STDs having little to no symptoms, some people aren't even aware they have one. Many people don't get tested because they don't want to talk about their condition, but this can be dangerous. STDs left untreated can lead to serious health conditions such as infertility.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Louisville today for confidential STD testing. Our walk-in center is open seven days a week for patients who are looking for treatment. Learn more about our on-site lab now.
Who Should Get Tested?
There are a few situations when it's necessary to get tested for an STD. Anyone sexually active should consider getting tested. Getting tested can save lives and heartbreak. If you have been in a monogamous long-term relationship and were tested beforehand, testing is likely not needed. Otherwise, a long-term couple could have an STD for years without knowing.
STDs can affect a fetus, so pregnant mothers should get tested. If you have been a victim of sexual assault, it is essential to get tested to prevent further damage.
Some other situations require testing, such as:
- Starting a new relationship
- Multiple partners
- Symptoms that may indicate an underlying condition
- Ceasing condom use
- A partner cheating
What To Test For?
There are many different STDs, and they can all be tested for. It is best to speak to your doctor to determine which tests should be taken in your situation. Doctors don't automatically test for STDs and often won't specifically ask a patient about getting tested. Be clear with the doctor about any unusual symptoms or concerns that may benefit from getting tested.
Common STDs to test for include:
- Herpes
- Gonorrhea
- Trichomoniasis
- Chlamydia
- Syphilis
- Hepatitis B
- HIV
Risk Factors
Being open and transparent with the doctor about your sexual health can help them help you. The doctor will only know what the patient shares with them and can only make helpful suggestions when they understand the situation.
Those who have anal sex should advise their doctor as this will require special STD testing. When discussing sexual health or at annual checkups, it is best to tell the doctor if you have multiple partners, any possible STD exposure, types of protection used during any kind of sex, or any medications.
Where to Get Tested for STDs
There are many options for getting tested for an STD. Depending on convenience, comfort level, or finances, there are available options to make testing possible. Places to get tested include:
Home
Testing can be done at home using a take-home kit purchased from a pharmacy. These tests have instructions and can be a private option for testing. The only FDA-approved at-home HIV testing option is the OraQuick IN-Home HIV Test.
Pharmacy
The pharmacy can be a convenient option to get tested for some STDs and will require calling or visiting ahead and scheduling an appointment. Pharmacies offer tests for chlamydia, syphilis, HIV, and gonorrhea.
Local Clinics
There are low-cost government healthcare clinics that offer STD testing, and this will be a cheaper option and may even be free. These clinics are government-funded and offer gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, and chlamydia testing.
Planned Parenthood
Planned Parenthood is a good place to get tested for STDs, especially if you are expecting a child. The cost of testing at these locations will vary based on several factors, including assistance eligibility and income.
AFC Louisville
AFC Urgent Care Louisville is a comfortable place to get tested for an STD, and it simply requires visiting our center and discussing options with your doctor. This may be a good option when planning ahead to get tested or if patients have questions.
Types of Tests
There are various ways to test for different STDs. Depending on sexual history, concerns, and the situation, the doctor may order any combination of tests. Test types include Pap smears and HPV tests, blood and urine samples, physical examinations, and swabs.
Physical Exam
The doctor will examine the genitals and look for any signs of an STD. Common symptoms include bumps and sores as doctors look for herpes and genital warts in a physical examination. A physical exam may lead to further testing if samples are required.
Blood and Urine
A blood or urine test can detect most STDs accurately. Blood or urine testing is not always the most accurate option, however. A downside to this type of testing is that an STD may not appear in the test if it was only recently contracted. Certain STDs may take weeks before they show up in a blood test.
Swabs
Doctors will use a swab to wipe the vagina, penis, or anus. They will use a cotton applicator and insert it into the appropriate area to receive a sample. This sample will identify any STDs or organisms from the area.
Pap Smear and HPV
A Pap smear is a test performed to check for cervical or rectal cancer. If it comes back abnormal, it may lead to an HPV test. Frequent HPV infections are often a warning sign of cervical cancer, and Anal cancer can develop from an HPV infection for people who have anal sex. A Pap smear is not specifically an STD test, but it can lead to one and help identify a risk that otherwise may go unnoticed.
Get Tested Today
STD testing is an important issue. Discussing testing with partners can be uncomfortable, but it is beneficial to everyone in the long run. Getting tested is easy to do, and healthcare providers are knowledgeable and willing to answer questions regarding testing.
