Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis have been rising in recent years. Without STD testing like that provided at Midwest Women Obstetrician/Gynecologist Ltd in Downers Grove, Illinois, these infections go untreated, putting you at risk of serious complications ranging from infertility to problems affecting an unborn baby. The team protects your health with comprehensive STD testing followed by customized treatment should you have an infection. If you have questions about STD testing or need to schedule an appointment, call or connect online today.

Who should get STD testing?

STD testing is the only way to learn you have an STD and get treatment for the infection. Without treatment, you can pass the infection to your partner or unborn baby. STDs can also cause serious complications, including pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, heart disease, and arthritis.

It’s time to schedule STD testing when:

• You’re considering becoming sexually active
• You have a new partner
• You learn a partner has an STD
• You have multiple partners
• You notice symptoms

If you’re not sure you need STD testing, your provider can help determine your risk and recommend when to get tested.

What symptoms indicate I need STD testing? 

STD symptoms may not develop for weeks or months. When they appear, you may have any of the following:

• Bumps, sores, or warts on your genitals
• Discharge from your vagina or penis
• Painless sores on your vagina, penis, or mouth
• Pain or burning during urination or sex
• Pain when ejaculating
• Itching, pain, swelling, or burning around the vagina or vulva
• Flu-like symptoms (fatigue, headache, fever, sore throat)

The exact symptoms you have depend on the STD.

What infections does STD testing find?

Midwest Women OB/GYN Ltd test for all types of STDs, including:

• Human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Syphilis
• Genital herpes
• Trichomoniasis
• Hepatitis B
• HIV/AIDS

Though HPV is the most common STD, it usually leaves your body before causing an infection. However, if the virus takes hold, it can cause genital warts and cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers.

What type of STD testing will I need?

STD testing begins with an exam to look for visible sores or other signs of an STD. Then your provider takes one or more of the following samples for testing:

• Blood sample
• Urine sample
• Swab of tissues from your mouth
• Swab of tissues from your genitals
• Swab of any sores or fluids
• Tissue sample from your cervix (Pap smear)

The sample you need depends on the type of STD you may have. If you have specific symptoms or a partner who has tested positive for a specific STD, your provider can narrow down the type of test needed. Otherwise, they may need to test several samples.

If you have any questions about STDs or need STD testing, call Midwest Women OB/GYN Ltd or book online today.