What is STD Testing?
Our board-certified OBGYNs at Essential Women's Health Associates in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV want you to know we provide all types of healthcare for women, including the diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases and infections. For a woman, it is important to stay healthy on the inside and out when it comes to her reproductive and overall health. Not only can your symptoms intensify as time goes on, but an infection can also spread to other parts of your body. We regularly treat women with the human papillomavirus (HPV) virus, which manifests as genital warts and sometimes cervical cancer.
Sexually transmitted diseases can be asymptomatic (undetected) to painful, itchy, and recurrent. Meet with one of our experienced practitioners at Essential Women's Health Associates for a private appointment, which may include a pelvic exam, a culture swab, and a urine screen. Even if you do not have an actual sexually transmitted disease, it is better to have it checked out than to suffer the long-term effects of a scarring infection, limit your fertility, or pass it on to your future baby.
What are the benefits of STD testing?
Understanding your sexual health is crucial for overall wellness. Routine STD testing at Essential Women's Health Associates offers key women's care benefits, such as:
- Early Detection: Catch STDs before they cause significant health issues.
- Prevents Spreading: Protect your partner by identifying and treating STDs early.
- Peace of Mind: Reduces anxiety related to sexual health concerns.
- Informed Decisions: Make informed decisions about your sexual health.
Visit our Las Vegas, NV practice today to schedule your discreet and comprehensive STD testing.
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Who is a candidate for STD testing?
You may be experiencing a sexually transmitted disease in your mouth and throat (from oral sex with an infected person), vulva, around the opening and inside of the vagina, on your cervix, and in your anus and anal canal. Each sexually transmitted disease has its own presenting symptoms, which can be active, recurring, or dormant. Common sexually transmitted diseases are Chlamydia, genital herpes, gonorrhea, Hepatitis B, HIV or AIDS, HPV, and syphilis. Some of your symptoms may include:
- Blisters, lesions, bumps, or warts
- Pain, irritation, and itchiness
- Vaginal discharge with or without a foul smell
- Spreading symptoms
- Painful, burning urination
- Uncomfortable sexual intercourse
- Non-period related bleeding between cycles
- Infection, chills, fever, swelling, and inflammation
Just because you cannot see a visible outbreak or do not feel any pain from a sexually transmitted disease does not mean it is not there. You are still contagious and will only get better with treatment. Sexually transmitted disease symptoms do not heal on their own and will not just simply go away. Come into our office and get tested.
What to expect when treating STDs
Your treatment will be decided upon based on the outcome of your tests. We will not just medicate your symptoms without knowing their cause. Most sexually transmitted diseases can be diagnosed with a culture swab, pelvic exam, urine screen, blood draw, or a combination of all of these diagnostic measures.
Other Considerations for STD testing
If you do test positive for a sexually transmitted disease, your partner(s) will need to be tested and treated as well. If not, then you will put yourself at risk for reinfection. We can also give you more information on how to protect your health in the future.
STD Testing FAQ
Why is STD testing important?
STD testing is crucial for detecting and diagnosing STDs early. It allows for timely treatment, helps prevent the spread of infections to sexual partners, and helps protect your overall health. Some STDs can lead to serious complications if left untreated.
How are STD tests conducted?
STD tests can involve different methods depending on the specific STD being tested for. Common methods include blood tests, urine tests, swabbing of genital or oral areas, and physical examinations. The specific tests required may vary based on symptoms, potential exposure, and individual risk factors.
Is STD testing confidential?
Yes, STD testing is typically confidential. Our providers at Essential Women's Health Associates in Las Vegas, NV are bound by patient privacy laws and take measures to ensure confidentiality.
Can I still get an STD if I use protection?
Using condoms and other forms of protection significantly reduces your risk of contracting an STD but does not eliminate the risk entirely. Some STDs can still be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact or from areas not covered by protection.
Do I need an STD test if I don't have symptoms?
Yes. Many STDs can be asymptomatic, meaning you may not notice any symptoms. Even without symptoms, it’s possible to carry and transmit STDs. Routine testing is important to ensure early detection and treatment.
How often should I get tested for STDs?
The frequency of STD testing depends on factors like your sexual activity, the number of partners, and any symptoms you may experience. If you're sexually active, it’s a good idea to discuss testing frequency with your healthcare provider, who may recommend annual tests or more frequent testing depending on your lifestyle.
Get tested
When you need testing, we can provide you with not only the tests but also to make sure your feminine health is not at risk in the process. Many sexually transmitted diseases are treatable, but when scar tissue forms because of them, then it may impact your fertility and other aspects of your feminine health. We can also share with you new ways to protect yourself in the future from another transmission. Call for STD testing at our Las Vegas or Henderson, NV office.
