STD Testing in Somerset, KY

Receiving a screening for a sexually transmitted disease, or STD, is an important step for a sexually active person to take in order to protect themselves and their partner. In many cases, those infected with a sexually transmitted disease may not even know because they aren’t showing symptoms. If left untreated, STDs can be spread to others and may even lead to infertility. The expertly trained gynecologists at Perennial Women’s Wellness have extensive experience performing STD screenings. Call (606) 451-3145 to request an appointment at our gynecology and women’s wellness clinic in Somerset today.

STD vs. STI

STD stands for sexually transmitted disease, while STI refers to sexually transmitted infection. Fundamentally, the difference is between a disease and an infection.

While not all diseases start as infections, a significant number do. Sexually transmitted diseases typically commence as sexually transmitted infections. The infection occurs when sexually transmitted bacteria or viruses enter the body and commence replication.

After the introduction of sexually transmitted bacteria or viruses into the body, the infection may develop into a disease. Disease manifests when the foreign presence significantly disrupts the body’s normal functions and processes.

When to Get Tested for STD/STIs

It is recommended that you undergo an STD screening if:

You have a new sexual partner. Everyone who is sexually active should receive an STD screening at some point, and this is especially true if you are engaged in sexual relations with a new person.
You are having unprotected sex. Not wearing protection increases your risk. Because of this, it is recommended that you receive a screening If you’re having unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex.
You are engaging in high-risk behavior. If you or your partner have multiple partners, are an IV drug user or have had contact with a sex worker, it is strongly advised that you receive more frequent screenings.
You are exhibiting symptoms. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, it is always best to have it examined by your physician to determine the cause.

How Common Are STD/STIs?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that one in five people in the United States has an STD. The highest infection rates were observed among individuals aged 20 to 34.

Contracting an STD is possible through engaging in vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has an STD. Sexually active individuals are susceptible to STDs, and it’s important to note that full intercourse is not the sole means of transmission. Some STDs, such as herpes and HPV, can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact.

What Are Types of STD/STIs?

Bacterial STDs

Chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis are good examples of STDs caused by bacteria. These issues can be treated with antibiotics and should go away after the antibiotic treatment is completed.

Parasitic STDs

STDs that are caused by parasites like Trichomonas Vaginalis can be cured using antibiotics, antiparasitic drugs or prescription shampoos.

Viral STDs

STDs caused by a virus cannot be cured completely, but they can be managed. The most common types are HPV, genital herpes, hepatitis B and HIV.

Signs and Symptoms of STD/STIs

It isn’t always obvious when you have an STD. Symptoms can be minor or even nonexistent in some cases. Visit the doctor if you are experiencing:

Painful urination
Frequent urination
Pain during intercourse
Blisters or sores on genitals and/or anus
Itchy or irritated genital area
Unusual discharge
Fever / flu-like symptoms

What to Expect During a STD/STI Test

STD screening is simple, quick, and is usually painless. There’s not a single test for all STDs, but Perennial Women’s Wellness can help you figure out which tests you need. STD testing may include:

A urine test: you just pee into a cup.
An oral test: you just rub the inside of your mouth or throat with a soft swab.
A blood test: your provider takes blood from your arm or a quick finger prick.
A physical exam: your provider looks at your genital area to check for warts, sores, rashes, irritation, or discharge.
A blister or sore swab: your provider takes a sample of fluid from any sores or blisters you have with a swab.
A genital swab: your provider will gently take discharge or cell samples from your vagina or anus.

Which STD/STI Test Should I Get?

General Population:

All adults and adolescents aged 13 to 64 should undergo HIV testing at least once.

Sexually Active Women:

Sexually active women under 25 should be annually tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia.
Women aged 25 and older, with risk factors like new or multiple partners or a partner with an STD, should also undergo annual testing for gonorrhea and chlamydia.

Pregnant Individuals:

Pregnant individuals should be tested early in pregnancy for syphilis, HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.
Those at risk should also be tested for chlamydia and gonorrhea early in pregnancy, with the possibility of repeat testing in some cases.

Men who have Sex with Men (MSM):

MSM should be tested at least annually for syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea.
Those with multiple or anonymous partners may need more frequent testing (e.g., every 3 to 6 months).
Annual HIV testing is recommended, with the potential for more frequent testing (e.g., every 3 to 6 months).
MSM living with HIV should be tested annually for hepatitis C.

High-Risk Individuals:

Individuals engaging in sexual behaviors that elevate their infection risk or those sharing injection drug equipment should undergo HIV testing at least annually.

Specific Testing Considerations:

People involved in oral or anal sex should discuss throat and rectal testing options with their healthcare provider.

STD Treatment

If results determine that you have an STD, the type of issue it is will determine how it is treated. STDs are broken down into three categories:

Bacterial STDs. Chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis are good examples of STDs caused by bacteria. These issues can be treated with antibiotics and should go away after the antibiotic treatment is completed.

Parasitic STDs. STDs that are caused by parasites like Trichomonas Vaginalis can be cured using antibiotics, antiparasitic drugs or prescription shampoos.

Viral STDs. STDs caused by a virus cannot be cured completely, but they can be managed. The most common types are HPV, genital herpes, hepatitis B and HIV.

Schedule an STD Screening

Routine STD tests are an important part of managing your sexual health. Call (606) 451-3145 to request an appointment with an expertly trained gynecologist at Perennial Women’s Wellness today.