STD Screening & Prevention

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), also referred to as venereal diseases, are infections transmitted between humans via sexual contact including vaginal intercourse, oral sex, and anal sex. In addition, some STDs may be transmitted through needles (used in IV drug use), childbirth, or breastfeeding.  Most sexually transmitted diseases have no symptoms, so an individual may be infected and not know it.  That means that the infected person may potentially infect others without showing any symptoms or signs of disease.

STDs are contracted from having sex with someone who has the infection.  The primary root causes of STDs are viruses, bacteria, and parasites.  There are more than 20 types of STDs, including but not limited to Herpes Simplex, HPV, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Trichomoniasis, HIV/AIDS, Syphilis, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C.  Periodic STD testing is highly advised for anyone with multiple sexual partners even if they are having protected sex using latex condoms.  Ideally, both sexual partners should get tested for sexually transmitted infections before initiating sexual contact (or if a partner engaged in sexual contact with someone else).  But even then, certain sexually transmitted infections, such as persistent viruses like HPV, may be impossible to detect with current medical procedures, as the individual may be asymptomatic.  At the very least, it is important to ask a potential partner if they have or have ever has an STD.

STD testing and treatment is confidential and can be performed by a simple blood draw and/or vaginal swab.  Some of the common infections that can be tested for include HPV, Syphilis, HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Chlamydia, Herpes, Gonorrhea, and Trichomoniasis.  If a patient is diagnosed with an STD, most can fortunately be effectively treated.  However, many STDs cannot be cured.  Treatments may include antibiotics (prescribed for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis), and a combination of other various medications.

Preventing the transmission of sexually transmitted infections is most effectively done by avoiding contact of body parts or fluids which can lead to transfer.  Abstinence is one method of avoiding contact.  Prevention is crucial in addressing viral sexually transmitted infections such as HIV and herpes, as they are currently incurable.

Please contact our office to schedule a STD screening or to learn about STD prevention.