STD Testing

What is STD testing?

STD testing at NewMed Immediate Care involves noninvasive lab tests and medical exams that screen for STDs in individuals at risk of developing them or who have symptoms of these diseases. Examples of STDs, which are caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites, include:

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

STDs spread from person to person via sexual contact (oral, vaginal, and anal sex), through shared needles or other blood contact, and from a mother to her baby during delivery or via breast milk. Detecting and treating STDs can cure a disease, help you better manage its symptoms, or reduce the risk of spreading STDs to sexual partners.

Which symptoms warrant STD testing?

The following symptoms may indicate a need for STD testing at NewMed Immediate Care:

• Unusual or smelly vaginal discharge
• Penis discharge
• Sores, lumps, or bumps on the genitals, rectal area, or mouth
• Burning or painful urination
• Pain during sex
• Swollen or sore lymph nodes
• Fever
• Lower abdominal pain
• Rash on your feet, hands, or trunk
• Unusual vaginal bleeding

It might take a few days up to several years before symptoms develop. However, not all STDs cause symptoms, which is why STD testing is important if you have disease risk factors.

Examples of STD risk factors include having unprotected sexual intercourse, having more than one sexual partner, a history of STDs, drug or alcohol misuse, and exposure to a partner who has tested positive for STDs.

What happens during STD testing?

Several types of STD tests are available; your specialist determines which is the most appropriate. They review your medical history, lifestyle habits, and symptoms. They also complete a physical exam, including a pelvic exam in women. You might undergo blood testing, urine tests, saliva tests, or tissue swabs. STD tests are simple, fast, and painless.

What do my STD testing results mean?

After NewMed Immediate Care receives your STD testing results, the team reviews them with you and lets you know if you have an STD. Treatment varies based on your diagnosis. Some STDs are curable with antibiotics, while others require antiviral medications to manage long-term.

In fact, certain STDs need lifelong management to avoid complications and reduce the risk of disease transmission. You must alert any sexual partners of a positive STD result and abstain from sex during treatment. They must also be treated. Repeat STD tests as needed and undergo routine medical monitoring to determine if your disease is cured or effectively managed.

Schedule STD testing at NewMed Immediate Care by calling the office, booking an appointment online, or walking in today.