No one hopes to go to a doctor for STD testing. But it is crucial to know about the complications, especially if you feel you have been exposed to or are experiencing symptoms related to an STD. Although going for STD testing seems embarrassing, you can be comfortable about seeking the service with a compassionate Covington, GA, primary care center provider. Remember that the tests are common, easy, quick, and are worth getting a handle on your sexual health. If you do not know when to go for testing, here are some directions for you.
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Seek Testing If You Notice Genital Changes
Although not all changes in your genitals imply you have an STD, it would be good to be tested for the conditions to have peace of mind. The most urgent change could be how your genital looks or feels, and you should not hesitate to seek testing. Put in mind that although there could be plenty of other explanations, any change in your genitals could be an STD, and the earlier you get tested, the better. Therefore, pay attention to unusual sores or bumps, unusual discharge or smell, urinating discomforts, and persistent itchiness or irritation.
You Are Uncertain of Your Partners Sexual History
If you have had sex with a partner, you cannot tell about their sexual history; it would be good to get tested for STDs. Remember that you are having sex even with other people they had intercourse with. Also, your partner may have been tested some time back but still was sexually active before you had sex. The initial test results would not count here. You need a new test as it is possible to have an STD without knowing. Some conditions may not show up immediately. You must get tested for STD before getting sexually involved with your partner.
Testing for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea
Medical experts recommend different STD tests timeline for different conditions. For instance, you might need annual testing for gonorrhea and chlamydia, depending on your overall sex life. Having multiple partners, being sexually active at below 25 for women, being forced to have sex, and having sex with men as a man are some factors that could lead to annual testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea. Additionally, you will need regular STD tests if you have been diagnosed with HIV.
Testing for HIV, Hepatitis C, and Syphilis
Some STD tests are less frequent and only necessary when certain conditions have been met. For example, you might only need HIV, hepatitis C, and syphilis testing if you have had multiple partners, tested for other STDs, shared intravenous drugs, or are pregnant. But you can still make testing optional when you are beginning new relationships.
Not All STDs Have Tests
Understand that even if you suspect you have an STD, some conditions cannot be proven 100%. Although you might take the tests, they may not be perfectly active, and you can have false positives or negatives. Your provider might have to examine your symptoms in a person. Herpes is one of the common STDs with no perfect test. Also, human papillomavirus has no test for men, and your provider has to examine sores visually.
If you are bothered you might have been exposed to an STD, reach out to Oasis Healthcare Service, Inc. today to settle your thoughts. Be sure to meet with a compassionate team, you do not have to be embarrassed about it. Your provider might have to examine your symptoms virtually for some complications.