An important part of having intercourse is being safe. Neglecting to do this increases your potential for developing STDs or sexually transmitted diseases. It’s smart to want to find out more about these diseases and how they’re transmitted. Another important aspect of avoiding the side effects of STDs is to receiving regular testing. In this post, you’ll learn how tests are performed for various STDs.
The Many Ways STDs Are Transmitted
It’s understandable to wonder whether or not you should receive STD testing. Anyone who has had intercourse with another person is at risk. Unfortunately, certain people will not inform others of their diseases. Therefore, unprotected intercourse should always be avoided. In addition, these diseases aren’t only passed through intercourse. Certain diseases are transmitted as two people’s mouths touch each other. They can also be passed from one person through another by sharing needles.
Receiving STD Testing at Urgent Care Facilities
You’re likely wondering where to go in order to have STD testing procedures taken care of. You don’t need to worry about finding specific STD testing clinics in your area. Instead, you’ll be glad to know that many urgent care facilities offer same day STD testing. While important, these tests don’t require visiting the ER. Statistics between 2003 and 2009 found that the mean wait time in emergency room facilities went up from 46.5 minutes to 58.1 minutes.
There’s no reason to deal with that type of waiting when you could visit an urgent care center. Many of these centers are open seven days a week. In addition, you’ll find that wait times tend to be much shorter at these facilities. Certain facilities even allow you to utilize STD testing at home. Being able to conduct STD testing at home is convenient for those uncomfortable with these matters.
How Tests Are Performed for Various Diseases
It’s perfectly understandable to want to know about STD testing procedures. That being said, you’ll find that several types of tests are used. The tests you’ll need will depend upon the symptoms you’re showing. However, many patients prefer to test for all possible diseases. This helps to provide much needed peace of mind. With that in mind, here is testing is performed for several common types of STDs.
- HIV
It’s important to note that certain STDs require more intensive treatment than others. There was a time where HIV was often a fatal disease. Fortunately, medical research continues to improve treatment for HIV. In order for medical professionals to test for this disease, they’ll need to obtain a blood sample or mouth swab. - Chlamydia
This is one of the most common types of STDs. In order to test for chlamydia, any potentially affected areas need to be swabbed. This includes any part of the body where fluids might have been exchanged. Fortunately, chlamydia is relatively easy after taking a round of medication. - Herpes
There are several ways that herpes can affect someone. These are commonly noticed in the mouth or on the genital areas of both men and women. In most cases, medical professionals can perform visual inspections in order to diagnose cases of herpes. However, herpes doesn’t always produce visual side effects. If you have herpes sores, doctors will swab these areas for testing purposes. Those not showing visual symptoms will likely receive a blood test.
In closing, it’s wise to want to know more about STDs. There is certainly a wide range of STDs that people catch and transmit to each other. If you’re sexually active or have recently shared needles with someone, it’s wise to receive STD testing. For those not wanting to do this in public, there are home tests available. Many find that STD testing at home is convenient. That being said, not all diseases might be able to be found with home testing. If you’re wondering whether you can qualify for STD testing at home, it’s wise to contact an urgent care center.
