STD Counseling and Testing
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that are spread by sexual contact.
Often a person with an STI has no symptoms and can unknowingly spread the infection.
Anyone who has sexual contact with another person is at risk of getting an STI.
A person with an STI can pass it to others through contact with skin, genitals, mouth, rectum, or body fluids.
Symptoms can range from no symptoms to vaginal discharge and mild irritation to severe pain. Often, symptoms occur only if the infection has gone on for a while. If you’re experiencing any symptoms, like itching, pain, or discharge, take note of them prior to your exam and bring them to our attention.
Ways you can reduce your risk of getting an STI:
- Abstinence, you cannot get an infection if you are not exposed.
- Know your sexual partners—The more partners you or your partners have, the higher your risk of getting an STI.
- Use a latex or polyurethane condom—Using a latex or polyurethane condom every time you have vaginal, oral, or anal sex reduces the risk of infection. Condoms can not completely protect you from viruses (HPV, Herpes, HIV, Hepatitis)
- Know that some sex practices increase the risk— Sexual acts that tear or break the skin carry a higher risk of STIs. Anal sex poses a high risk because tissues in the rectum break easily. Body fluids also can carry STIs. Having any unprotected sexual contact with an infected person poses a high risk of getting an STI.
- Get vaccines—Vaccines are available to help protect against hepatitis B and human papillomavirus (HPV).
STIs are caused by infections with bacteria or viruses. STIs caused by bacteria are treated with antibiotics. STIs caused by viruses cannot be cured, but symptoms can be treated. Even if there are no symptoms, tests can be done to diagnose infection.
Testing will help you know if you have an STI so you can take steps to prevent passing it to others.
What are some of the most common STD’s?
At your well-woman exam, one of our specialists at County Obstetrics & Gynecology will discuss with you any concerns you may have about possible exposure to STIs. Our office can provide comprehensive testing to assure you a clean bill of health.