The CDC estimates that approximately 19 million people in the U.S. are infected every year with sexually transmitted diseases, or STDs, making regular testing a crucial component in your overall health care. The OB/GYNs at Southeast Texas OB/GYN Associates, P.A. provide confidential STD testing for their patients in Beaumont, Texas, giving them peace of mind, as well as a valuable jump on curing or treating any infection that may be found.
STD Testing Q & A
STDs are sexually transmitted diseases, which are now more commonly referred to as sexually transmitted infections, or STIs. The reason for this name differentiation is that you can be infected, but not display any symptoms, yet you can still pass the infection on to others.
An STI is an infection that’s spread through the act of sex, meaning vaginally, anally, or orally.
The most common STIs in the U.S. are:
- HPV, or human papillomavirus
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Syphilis
- Herpes
- Trichomoniasis
- HIV/AIDS
- Hepatitis B
As with most infections or diseases, the earlier you catch the infection, the better your chances are of fighting it. With STIs, it’s also important to know whether you can infect others. As noted earlier, many people may test positive for an STI, even though they don’t display any symptoms.
The CDC has issued general guidelines for testing, which the doctors at Southeast Texas OB/GYN Associates, P.A. also recommend. Here are their recommendations:
Chlamydia and gonorrhea
You should get screened annually if you’re sexually active and under the age of 25. Older women who engage in unprotected sex or who have multiple partners should also get tested annually. If you’re pregnant, the doctors screen for these infections.
HIV/AIDS
All women between the ages of 13 and 64 should be tested at least once.
Syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis B
All pregnant women should be screened for these infections.
If you’ve developed symptoms, the doctors at Southeast Texas OB/GYN Associates, P.A., review your case and recommend the appropriate testing.
The list above is a brief rundown of STI screening and testing guidelines, but each case is different. When you sit down with the doctor, it’s crucial that you have an honest conversation about your sexual habits so that he can recommend the best testing schedule based on your risk. Many STIs are highly curable and the earlier you catch the infection, the easier it is to treat and even cure.
If you’d like to learn more about testing for STIs, call Southeast Texas OB/GYN Associates, P.A., or use the online booking tool to schedule a visit.