You should get tested for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) if you have ever been sexually active. You don't need to show symptoms to get tested, because most sexually transmitted diseases don't show symptoms in the early stages. Regular testing helps to prevent other health concerns, such as infertility and cancer.
Your chances of getting cured increases when the disease is detected early. You can get STD testing in an urgent Care center for several types of diseases such as gonorrhea, AIDS, syphilis, Chlamydia, genital herpes and human papillomavirus infection.
STD TREATMENT AND TESTING
Going to a doctor to test for sexually transmitted diseases may seem embarrassing. Luckily, urgent care centers are highly discreet and you don't need to worry about crowds or booking an appointment with the healthcare provider. Test results and treatments are easier to get at a care center. However, some cases require a third party to provide necessary treatments.
HOW TO EVALUATE SYMPTOMS
The first step in STD testing is evaluating the symptoms. Your healthcare provider tries to evaluate your condition by asking if you experience any symptoms. The next step depends on the presence or absence of symptoms. If you don't have symptoms the doctor will do other tests to ensure you are completely safe. If you have symptoms, your doctor will do a physical examination. Women undergo a pelvic exam, while men undergo a genital exam. The primary aim of the examination is to detect signs of sexually transmitted diseases such as blisters or bumps.
COLLECTION OF SAMPLES
You doctor will collect samples from you to detect the presence of any sexually transmitted disease. A small amount of blood or a urine sample is taken. In some cases, your doctor might need to take throat, genital and anal swabs. Anal swabs are only needed if you have done anal sex.
IS TESTING WITH An URGENT CARE CENTER A BETTER OPTION?
The truth is, care centers are not the best place for many health issues. You cannot get a kidney transplant there and find a medical practitioner or primary healthcare provider. However, this is an advantage because you are not meeting a physician you have regular interaction with.
The hospital is a great place for severe conditions, because you are treated by a doctor that has past experience caring for you. These past experiences may make testing for STD awkward. In most cases, urgent care centers are preferred to hospitals because you don't have to meet a doctor you or a family member is familiar with.
Conclusion
With testing for STDs, the most important factor to consider is where you feel more comfortable. It could be with a physician you may never see again or the same physician that has been treating you for years.
Urgent Care Centers are also a great option to get convenient, fast, and respectful STD testing whenever a patient needs an STD test ASAP. Just visit in person and get walk-in clinic access for your STD test.
