STD Testing

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a serious public health problem and, when not treated, can cause long-term medical issues for women. The women’s health clinic understands the importance of early STD detection. Call Feminine Urgicare today or use the online scheduling tool to book your STD testing appointment. Walk-ins are also welcome for same-day STD testing.

What are the long-term complications of STDs?

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are serious infections that can lead to long-term health problems if left untreated, such as infertility, cancer, and birth defects. Though anyone can get an STD, women are at greater risk of developing these chronic health issues.

STDs are any bacterial, fungal, parasitic, or viral infection passed from person to person through sexual intercourse or contact. Common STDs include:

• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Hepatitis B and C
• HIV
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Syphilis
• Genital herpes
• Trichomoniasis

STDs are common, affecting millions of Americans every year. 

When should I have STD testing?

Medical services are provided by Paramus Women's Acute Care or Clifton Women's Acute Care, depending on the location where the patient receives care. If you’re sexually active, you should consider STD testing. You can’t count on symptoms to alert you that something is wrong. STDs may not cause symptoms, or the symptoms may come and go without you realizing you have an infection. 

In general, independent medical guidelines suggest screening and evaluation for:

• Sexually active women with new or multiple sexual partners
• Pregnant women
• Sexually active people who have unprotected sex
• People with HIV

The frequency of your STD testing depends on your sexual history. However, it is recommended for women 25 and younger to get tested every year for chlamydia and gonorrhea. 

It is also recommended to have HPV testing at age 30. HPV is a very common STD, and certain strains cause cervical cancer. Women can combine the HPV test with their Pap smear. 

You should get tested for STDs if you have unusual symptoms like vaginal pain or itching, a change in vaginal discharge, or visible sores or bumps in the genital area. Testing is also recommended if a sexual partner tests positive for an STD. 

What happens during STD testing?

The specifics of your STD testing at the facility depend on your personal situation. Your designated healthcare provider asks about your concerns and symptoms and reviews your sexual and gynecological history.

They talk to you about STDs and the tests you need. Licensed medical staff may collect blood, urine, or vaginal secretions and send the samples to the lab for analysis. 

When can I expect results from STD testing?

The clinical specialists at the location explain when you can expect results from your STD testing at the time of your appointment. Your individual healthcare provider contacts you when the results come back, explains what your results mean, and provides clinical guidance on what to do to protect your sexual health.

If you test positive for an STD, the practitioner prescribes necessary medical treatments or medications to clear up or manage the infection. 

STD testing is important for reproductive health. Call today to speak with the medical team or schedule an appointment online with a licensed provider.