Did you know that humans can transmit over 25 different diseases through sex? With that many diseases, it’s crucial to ensure that you are routinely testing for STDs. After all, approximately 50% of sexually active people will contract an STD by the age of 25, and STDs among older adults are on the rise as well. If you are nervous or unsure of how to start, here’s an overview of what you need to know about routine STD testing.

What Types of STD Tests Are There?

Some STDs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, don’t have symptoms, but they can still impact health and fertility. Luckily, there are tests available for some of the most common STDs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, herpes, HIV, and syphilis. STDs often have symptoms that mirror other diseases, which makes it difficult to diagnose if you’re not looking for it specifically. 

The best way to find out which types of STD tests you might need is to discuss your symptoms and sexual history with your health care practitioner. Based on this information, they’ll be able to recommend the STD tests that make the most sense for you. Don’t worry, because it’s a judgment-free zone!

How Does STD Testing Work?

The type of diagnostic testing depends on the STD in question. For some STDs, such as gonorrhea, a urine sample is all that specialists need. Meanwhile, for other STDs, such as HIV and syphilis, they might require a blood sample. Certain STDs require a physical exam or a swabbing of your genitals for identification. A reputable healthcare facility or urgent care center will help you feel safe and comfortable during any testing. 

STD Tests Can Prevent Long-Term Health Issues

While STD testing will not prevent you from getting a disease, it will help you avoid complications associated with STDs. It will also keep you from spreading it to future sexual partners. Untreated STDs can have serious health consequences, and sometimes waiting too long to get tested means that the damage from the untreated infection may already be irreversible. Some health issues that could be faced by untreated STDs include infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, cervical cancer, liver disease or liver failure, and heart and blood vessel damage. For women who are pregnant, an untreated STD causes a higher risk for ectopic pregnancies, miscarriages, and premature delivery, along with the possibility of passing the STD to their baby. 

Does Urgent Care Give STD Tests?

Fortunately, with consistent STD testing, doctors can identify the STD and often treat it with minimal side effects. Keep in mind that STD testing is not a routine part of wellness checkups, so you must request it specifically. Also, most doctors recommend that you establish a routine with a yearly STD test for the most common diseases. For the most convenient way to get tested for an STD, visit an urgent care center. Urgent care STD testing is fast and convenient, and it preserves your privacy and anonymity throughout the entire process.

Get Your STD Test at UrgentMED

UrgentMED features numerous locations throughout Los Angeles, and we can test you for most common STDs in less than an hour. STD testing is the best way to safeguard your health and protect your sexual partners. If you need safe, fast, anonymous STD testing, visit your closest UrgentMED facility in Southern California today. Come visit one of our 18 convenient locations throughout Southern California to ensure you are free of STDs.