STD testing for men and women is easy, painless, and vitally important for anyone who is sexually active.  Having yourself tested can prevent a lot of harm, or even save lives – your own, or others!

Here’s what you need to know.

What’s Involved in An STD Test?

There are several different STD tests, depending on which specific diseases are being tested for.  However, in all cases, it’s completely painless and will be quick to perform.

Most of the time, all that’s needed is a simple fluid sample, such as a swab from your cheek, or a bit of urine.  Occasionally blood testing is called for, but all that requires is a drop of blood from a pinprick.  Or, if the patient has warts or sores suspected of being an STD, fluid from the sores themselves may be tested.

In any case, all you do is provide the sample, and then it’s sent off to the lab for testing.  You’ll have the results in under a week.

How Do I Know Which STD Tests I Need?

This is something that you and your doctor will decide, based on your sexual history.  You’ll be asked a few questions about your sex life, which generally include:

  • How many active partners you have?
  • Whether you or other partners have had STDs in the past
  • What types of sex you engage in?
  • What types of protection were used?
  • Whether you engage in other activities considered ‘high risk’ for catching STDs

Please be as honest as possible when answering the questions.  No one is judging you.  Your doctor simply needs to know the situation, so they can best determine the types of tests to recommend.

How Do I Ask for An STD Test?

We know, this isn’t the easiest subject to broach.  If you have active symptoms, you can often avoid asking simply by discussing the symptoms themselves.  Your doctor will know if STD testing is called for.  Otherwise, you could be indirect.  Try asking, “Will these tests involve STD testing?”    Your doctor will know what you mean.

Either way, it is vital for you to know the truth – both for your sake, as well as the sake of your sexual partners.

Visit Advanced Care of Pasadena To Get Easy STD Testing for Men and Women

We’re your friendly local urgent care clinic, and we’re happy to provide affordable STD testing.  Click here to schedule an appointment, or just walk in.

 

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