STD Testing: A Complete Guide to Getting Your STD Test Done
STD Testing: A Complete Guide to Getting Your STD Test Done
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be passed easily if you’re not careful and not getting tested regularly. Surfside Urgent Care tells you everything you need to know about STD testing in Laguna Niguel.
Why Should I Get Tested?
Getting regularly tested for STDs or STIs is crucial in order to ensure that you don’t have any complications when it comes to your sexual health. Early detection can prevent long-term health issues. The majority of people will choose to get STD testing only after experiencing symptoms, but it’s always a good idea to get regularly tested as some STDs can exist without showing symptoms.
Health professionals recommend that if you’re sexually active, you should get tested once every year. However, some people may need to get tested more frequently depending on their circumstances, such as if they’re pregnant or have multiple partners.
What Should I Get Tested For?
The most common STDs that people get tested for are chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis. But if you know that your partner has tested positive for a specific STD, it’s best to get tested for the same infection. Talk to your doctor for instructions on the right STDs to get tested for. Below is a list of STDs that you can get tested for:
- Gonorrhea
- Chlamydia
- Hepatitis (B & C)
- HIV
- Trichomoniasis
- Syphilis
- Herpes
Common Sites for STD/STI Tests
As a way to prevent the spread of STDs and STIs, testing is becoming common in many locations. Here are a few options one might have for STI testing:
- Doctor’s office – This is a common place to get tested as most health providers have the facilities to test on-site.
- Community clinics – Many cities have clinics that offer testing services either by appointment or walk-in.
- Urgent Care Clinics – Here you can get an immediate diagnosis and oftentimes the appropriate medication. You can contact Surfside Urgent Care for STD testing in Laguna Niguel.
- Local Planned Parenthood health center – people can get STI testing for free or at a low cost here.
Tests You’ll Need a Doctor For
Most STD tests will take a sample of your urine, blood, or a swab and won’t need professional assistance. However, the only test that only a doctor can conduct is for human papillomavirus (HPV), which involves a pap smear that needs to be done professionally.
Contact Surfside Urgent Care for More Information on STD Testing in Laguna Niguel!