Why is it so important to get tested for STDs?
Sexually transmitted diseases are a touchy subject for many women, but getting tested demonstrates responsibility for your health as well as the health of your partner. A lot of STDs show no signs or symptoms, so it’s possible for you or your partner to have one without even knowing it.
More importantly, some STDs have no cure, so unless you and your partner get tested, you may accidentally find yourself stuck with one forever. The current list of incurable STDs includes:
- Hepatitis B
- Herpes simplex virus
- HIV
- HPV
Who should get tested for STDs?
The only way to be positive you don’t have an STD is to get tested, so anyone who’s sexually active should get it done at least once. Reasons to get tested for STDs include:
- Having a new sexual partner
- Engaging in unprotected sex
- Having had multiple sexual partners
- If your partner has been with other partners or isn’t monogamous
- If you think you might have an STD
- If you think your partner might have an STD
How does an OBGYN perform an STD test?
Besides screening for cervical cancer with a Pap test, Dr. Patel can help protect the future of your health by testing you for STDs during an annual well-woman visit. Based on your pelvic exam and the information you provide, he may test only for specific STDs or many at the same time.
Depending on the STDs being tested for, Dr. Patel may take a blood or urine sample. It takes two to three days to get results from STD testing.
What STDs are tested for during an OBGYN exam?
A regular well-woman visit doesn't typically include STD tests. If you want to get tested for STDs, make sure to ask for it during your exam. Dr. Patel can test you for the following STDs:
- HIV
- Hepatitis B and C
- Gonorrhea
- Chlamydia
- Trichomoniasis
- Herpes
If you’re sexually active and think you may be due for an STD test, take responsibility for your health by calling or clicking online to book an appointment with Dr. Patel today.
