STI Testing Specialist

Should I get tested for STDs?

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are passed through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral intercourse. 

STDs are extremely contagious but often show no symptoms. Even if you’re unaware you have one, you can easily pass the disease to your intimate partners and suffer long-term complications when it comes to your sexual and overall health.

If you’re sexually active, STD testing is important. This is especially true if you’re not in a mutually monogamous relationship.

Getting tested for an STD means you get immediate treatment should you have a positive result. The sooner you get treated, the better chance you have of preventing complications. 

You must request STD testing because it’s not a normal part of your annual physical or women’s or men’s wellness exam. 

Which diseases are detected during STD testing?

Pacifica Health offers testing to detect the most common STDs, including:

• Syphilis
• Gonorrhea
• Chlamydia
• HIV
• Trichomoniasis
• Herpes

While these are some of the most common STDs, Pacifica Health can also test you for other STDs, like hepatitis B, if you’re showing symptoms.

What symptoms suggest I need STD testing?

If you have an STD, oftentimes you won’t have any symptoms, but you’re still contagious and vulnerable to long-term effects. That’s why it’s important to get tested regularly if you aren’t in a committed, monogamous relationship.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, schedule an STD test at Pacifica Health right away:

• Warts or lesions on your genitals
• Irregular penile or vaginal discharge
• Swollen testicles
• Irregular menstrual bleeding
• Strong vaginal odor
• Itching or burning, especially while urinating

If you experience pelvic pain during intercourse, it’s another possible sign of an STD, and you should get tested right away.

What happens during STD testing?

STD testing may involve a swab of your genitals, a blood test, or a urinalysis. You may undergo an exam of your genitals too, and if there are visible warts, the doctors will likely diagnose human papillomavirus (HPV) but still screen for other STDs.

What happens after STD testing?

STDs that are viral, like HIV or HPV, are long-lasting, but the symptoms can be managed with medications and lifestyle changes. Bacterial STDs, like chlamydia and syphilis, are treated with antibiotics.

You’ll be asked to avoid sexual contact until your treatment is complete or your symptoms managed. This prevents you from passing your disease on to other partners.

If you need STD testing, call one of the offices of Pacifica Health today. Alternatively, use the online tool to request an appointment.