Testing for sexually transmitted diseases, or STDs, is a vital part of maintaining your sexual health. For many, it is important to get tested regularly, especially if you have multiple partners or have unprotected sex. Fortunately, there are a variety of tests available to detect and diagnose sexually transmitted diseases. This blog will outline some of the most commonly asked questions about STD testing– from the various types of tests to what to expect during your visit.

AFC Urgent Care Thornton provides walk-in STD tests seven days a week. The clinic is a great resource for those who wish to get tested in a compassionate and confidential environment. Visit AFC Thornton Testing is quick, painless, and easy at AFC Thornton.

Which STD Tests Should I Take?

In order to understand which STD tests are right for your situation, a medical provider will typically ask a series of questions about your current condition and overall symptoms. These questions are confidential, and important in the process of STD testing. Possible questions may include when symptoms first became noticeable, your sexual history, and how often you use protection. It’s important to be honest with your provider so you can receive the best care possible.

At AFC Urgent Care Thornton, our STD tests can detect the following STDs:

• HIV/AIDS
• Herpes (HSV1 and HSV2)
• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Hepatitis B and C
• Syphilis

What Happens During an STD Test?

When getting tested for STDs, you will generally be asked to provide a sample of either urine, blood, or a swab of cells from the infected area. Depending on the type of STD that’s being tested for, the sample may need to be taken from the rectum, throat, or genitals. Your healthcare provider will analyze the sample and send it to our on-site labs for diagnosis. The laboratory will look for any signs of infection and run a variety of tests to detect the presence of an STD.

In addition to lab testing, your provider may also perform a physical exam to look for any signs of infection. This may include visual inspection or swabbing the infected area to collect a sample. There is nothing you need to prepare for when it comes to the exam or overall testing process, besides being open to answering questions. Our medical providers strive to make the process as seamless and comfortable as possible.

Your Test Comes Back Positive: What are the Next Steps?

If the results of your STD test come back positive, the first step is to remain calm. Medical providers can discuss your next steps when it comes to treating your infection. Treatment varies depending on which STD(s) you have tested positive for, but oftentimes includes prescribed antibiotics. In any case, it’s important to get tested whether you’re showing symptoms or not. This is because many infections, like gonorrhea and chlamydia, often go unnoticed as they don’t always show symptoms.

Visit AFC Urgent Care Thornton for Walk-in STD Testing

AFC Urgent Care Thornton provides patients with everything they need when it comes to supporting sexual health. We proudly serve all patients near Thornton, Northglenn, Eastlake, Henderson, and Todd Creek, Colorado. The clinic provides compassionate STD testing seven days a week, making the process as easy as possible. Don’t put off testing, and walk into the clinic today. If you have any further questions about the process, or other urgent care services we provide, please call us directly at (720) 751-2910.