What's Right for Your STD Testing Needs?

STD testing is not something anyone should put off. If you have had sexual relations with anyone, even someone you are committed to being with long-term, you should have a test to ensure you are healthy. Many sexually transmitted diseases can hide in the body for years showing no outward symptoms whatsoever. The problem is, this lurking in the background means no treatment is being given either. That is when you are at the most risk for an outbreak. In some cases, when these conditions do arise, they can cause pain, discomfort and even lead to loss of life. Tests can help you to pinpoint what could be there long before it gets to this point.

What's Your Need?

What many people do not know is that there are various options for STD testing. Due to the importance of having these types of tests, many methods have been developed by doctors and hospitals to make sure individuals get the care that they need. Everyone knows it is not exactly the easiest conversation to bring up with your doctor. That is especially true if you are still seeing the same doctor you have been all of your life. Yet, you need to know about your health. That is why there are options.

Where to Go?

The first thing to know is that you do have plenty of options in facilities to visit to get these tests. Most commonly, family doctors are used. However, you can visit most hospitals and urgent care centers for assistance as well. The benefit of going to an urgent care facility, for example, is that no one really needs to know why you are there or what you are having done. The results are fast and confidential. Most areas have more than one location you can visit to get tested.

What Screenings Do You Need?

There are many types of sexually transmitted diseases. You should be screened for as many as possible. This includes herpes, HIV, and HPV. These tests can be done in different ways. For example, most tests for STDs are done using blood samples or urine cultures. Others, like the HPV scan, are done using a pap test or a specially designed HPV test. It is a good idea to talk to your doctor about the risks you face and have full screenings completed.

STD testing can provide you with answers to the questions you have. Even if it is just reassurance that you are going to be fine and that you do not have any condition, strive to have these tests at least one time per year. You may need them more commonly if you are frequently engaging in sexual conduct with more than one partner or you believe you are at a higher risk.