Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the United States are on the rise. According to a 2019 report, STDs increased for the fifth consecutive year – with nearly 2.5 million combined cases nationwide. At the top of the list were chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. Left untreated or undiagnosed these infections can have long-lasting impacts on health and wellness.
The importance of STD testing
STD’s do not always have obvious symptoms. It’s possible to be infected with an STD and not be aware. In fact, a large number of people with an STD will never have a single symptom. And unfortunately, those without symptoms can still pass the infection onto a partner. Testing can help catch these infections and stop the spread.
The right time to get tested
Every case is unique but there are some general guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) about when to get tested:
- When you have symptoms of an STD such as genital itching, rashes, abnormal discharge or pain on urination.
- Sexually active women younger than 25 should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year.
- Sexually active women 25 years and older: For those with a new partner, multiple partners or a sex partner who has an STD should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year.
- All sexually active gay and bisexual men should be tested at least once a year for syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea.
- All adults and adolescents from ages 13 to 64 should be tested at least once for HIV.
What happens during a STD test
Depending on the STD being tested for, testing can take the form of a urine sample, a vaginal/genital swab or a blood test.
What the test results mean and what happens next
After getting tested for a STD patients will receive a result that comes back positive or negative. If the test results are negative, then great, no follow-up is necessary. In a few cases we may recommend a second test to confirm the results but otherwise continue to practice safe sex and keep getting tested regularly.
If the results come back positive our staff will discuss the next steps with you such as treatment options. A positive result also means you should abstain from sex for the immediate future until your treatment is completed. Tell anyone you’re in a relationship with about the result. This will allow them to get tested and seek treatment if required.
Protecting your privacy and confidentiality
At Life Savers ER we understand that STD testing can be a sensitive issue. We maintain the highest standards of privacy and confidentiality throughout the entire process.
Our clinic offers a great alternative for those who are not comfortable talking to their regular primary care doctor about STD’s or getting tested by their doctor.
All testing and results are treated with the highest level of privacy and confidentiality.
Same-Day STD Testing in Houston is Available at All LifeSavers ER Locations
Consider STD testing in Houston if you fall under one of these categories:
- You have symptoms of an STD such as pain on urination, rashes, itching or abnormal discharge from the genital area.
- You are starting a relationship with a new partner.
- You are concerned that you have recently come into contact with an STD.
- Testing annually if you’re sexually active and not in a mutually monogamous relationship.
- Testing annually as part of an overall health screen.
- If you’re uncomfortable seeing your regular practitioner to have an STD check.
References
https://www.cdc.gov/nchhstp/newsroom/2019/2018-STD-surveillance-report.html
https://www.cdc.gov/std/prevention/screeningreccs.htm
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