We also understand how uncomfortable talking about your sexual health and the possibility of having an STD can be. STDs can be easily spread from one person to another, especially in their early stages when symptoms may not be present.
In addition to providing you with fast and reliable information and results, we also offer all of our patients the following:. You can easily schedule your appointment for STD testing. At your appointment, we offer a private consultation room where you can discuss your concerns with a medical professional prior to testing.
Once your sample is collected, it is discreetly sent off for laboratory analysis. Once your final results are available, we will notify you immediately, so you can take the necessary steps for treatment if needed. STD testing can be performed using different techniques depending on the symptoms. If a routine exam reveals sores or other abnormal areas or a Pap test or HPV test yields abnormal results, testing may be performed using a minimally-invasive exam called a colposcopy that uses a magnifying scope to identify areas of abnormal tissue inside the vaginal canal and on the cervix.
These areas can be sampled or biopsied and examined more closely under a microscope to determine if an infection is present. Other times, blood tests or urinalysis may be ordered to test for the presence of specific germs in the blood or urine. Guidelines from the U.
Department of Health recommend all sexually-active people have STD testing performed annually, and every three to six months for those who engage in risky sexual activity. STDs can be difficult to detect, especially in their early stages when they may cause few or no noticeable symptoms. Most STDs can be treated and eradicated using medications. Usually, it takes a few weeks for the germs to reach a level where they can be accurately assessed using blood tests or other testing. Patients who have engaged in risky sex or who simply want to be tested should call the office to inquire about optimal scheduling.
