Up to 2.3 million new cases of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are reported in the United States each year. Because STDs continue to spread and can permanently affect your fertility, the compassionate practitioners at Cary OB/GYN offer personalized and discreet STD testing in Cary and Morrisville, North Carolina. Contact us today to schedule your appointment at the office nearest you.
STD Testing Q & A
Why should I be concerned about STDs?
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) spread through vaginal, oral, or anal sexual intercourse. It’s important to be screened for STDs because they:
- Can increase your risk of cancer
- Don’t always have symptoms
- Can make you infertile
- Spread very easily
Plus, STDs can lead to uncomfortable and embarrassing symptoms that you don’t want to share with your partner.
What are the most common STDs?
STDs are something you should be aware of if you’re sexually active, especially if you have multiple partners. Some of the most common STDs include:
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Genital herpes
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Syphilis
Annual well-woman exams don’t always include STD testing, so it’s important to talk with your OB/GYN about your sexual practices and get the appropriate screenings as recommended.
Are there symptoms of STDs?
Not always, which is why routine preventive STD screening is so important. Depending on which type of STD you have, you may experience:
- Sores or bumps around your genitals, which could spread to your buttocks or thighs
- Abnormal vaginal discharge
- Burning while urinating
- Vaginal or anal itching
Some STDs also lead to widespread body aches and fatigue, which may leave you to think you have the flu. If you experience any of these symptoms, schedule an evaluation at Cary OB/GYN right away.
What happens during STD testing?
The caring practitioners at Cary OB/GYN understand how uncomfortable it can be to talk about STD testing, but it’s an important part of your health and wellness. During your STD screening, your practitioner is likely going to ask you about what you do for birth control and barrier protection (like condoms).
Depending on your lifestyle, risk factors, and any symptoms, your doctor may also:
- Perform a pelvic exam or Pap smear
- Get a scraping or culture of sores
- Conduct a blood draw or urinalysis
It may take several days for your STD test results to come back to the clinic. Once your results are in, the team at Cary OB/GYN contacts you for a follow-up appointment, if needed, to get started on treatment.
Schedule your routine STD testing at Cary OB/GYN today. Contact us today to schedule your appointment at the office nearest you.
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