It is important to know your body well and be able to recognize any changes happening to your body.  It is also important to know that it is possible to have an STD and experience no symptoms at all.  The following symptoms may indicate the presence of an STD:

• A foul or fishy odor;
• Pain or burning during intercourse and/or urination;
• Unusual vaginal or penile discharge;
• Itching and/or irritation in areas where sexual contact has occurred; and/or
• Rash, redness, sores or warts in areas where sexual contact has occurred.

Being tested for STDs is a healthy practice for anyone who is sexually active and is the only way to know for sure if you have an STD.  Before initiating sexual contact with a new partner, it is a good idea for both you and your partner(s) to get tested to prevent the spread of infection.  If you are pregnant, it is a good idea to get tested because untreated STDs can cause such complications as premature labor, uterine infection after delivery or health problems for your baby.  It is also important to get tested if you are considering having an abortion. Untreated STDs could potentially spread during a surgical abortion, leading to possible complications such as Pelvic Inflammatory Disease.

 

We recommend being tested every 6-12 months or if you have a new partner. In an effort to serve as many as possible, we are able to provide free comprehensive STD testing and treatment to each individual client once every 6 months.

What should I expect?

• A staff member will meet with you to get to know you and identify ways we can assist you.
• A nurse will review your medical history to determine appropriate testing based upon your sexual practices and health history.
• A nurse will answer questions you have about STD's and provide you with materials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
• A nurse will oversee sample collection for testing, which may include a urine sample, blood draw, and swabs of throat, vagina and/or rectum, as indicated.
• If you have arranged for an appointment to see one of our physicians or advanced providers, limited pelvic exams, pap tests, genital dermatology assessments and treatments will be available as appropriate.

At the end of your appointment, you will be asked to schedule a results appointment for the following week during which we will review your results, address any questions or concerns you have and provide treatment as appropriate.