Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) occur much more commonly than many of us want to think. But still, we don’t always discuss them when we should because of their sensitive nature. However, it’s essential to know that STDs don’t discriminate and can infect anyone who is sexually active. Unfortunately, some people may not realize they have an STD until it causes real damage. That’s why it’s crucial to test yourself regularly. In this blog post, we’ll discuss why STD testing is important and what to expect during the process.
The Importance of STD Testing
Receiving the proper STD testing is vital for many reasons. First, knowing your status is important for your physical health because it allows you to receive treatment for infections before they become more serious. If left untreated, STDs can have severe consequences such as infertility, cancer, and even death. Additionally, you can avoid transmitting an STD to future partners by getting tested regularly. This is because the results will let you know when to use extra protection during intercourse.
Who Should Get Tested?
All sexually active individuals, regardless of gender or sexual orientation, should get regular STD tests. This is especially true if you have multiple sexual partners, unprotected sex, or if you’ve contracted an STD before. If you experience any symptoms such as itching, burning, or discharge, visit a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Getting fast results will give you the information you need to make informed treatment decisions.
What To Expect During STD Testing
Now that you know why STD testing is important, we want to discuss what to expect during the testing process. At AFC Southpoint, we offer quick and confidential testing for various sexually transmitted infections. The testing process involves a simple blood, urine, or swab sample, depending on the type of test you request. The process is quick, painless, and conducted by a trained medical professional. The results for some tests may take several days to come back, but we can complete other tests, like rapid HIV tests, in as little as a few minutes.
What Happens With Positive Results?
If you test positive for an STD, our medical professionals are here to help you. They will provide you with all the necessary information on treatment options and how to avoid further spread of the infection. Additionally, they will give you details on how to inform your sexual partners so they can also receive testing and treatment if necessary. Your privacy and confidentiality are always our top priority, and we provide resources for counseling and treatment as needed.
STD testing is essential for everyone, regardless of age, gender, or sexual orientation. It’s a simple process that can prevent you from experiencing serious health complications and protect your future partners. AFC Southpoint is here to provide you with quick, confidential, and professional STD testing services in Southpoint-Durham, NC. We understand that getting tested can be nerve-wracking; that’s why we strive to make this process as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
