There is no way to test for every single STD with one kind of test, but swabs of affected areas, and urine or blood tests are able to detect all of the most common ones, and many are detectable using multiple methods. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are both detectable through urine samples or swabbing of the affected areas. Genital herpes (both asymptomatic and symptomatic) and syphilis are detectable both through swabbing of the affected area and through blood tests. HIV is only detectable through a blood test but results are able to be provided almost instantly. To test for trichomoniasis or HPV, either a visual exam of the affected areas or swabbing of the areas is necessary.

Some common symptoms of STDs to look out for include:

● Any abnormal discharge from the anus, vagina, or penis
● A rash and/or itchiness around the genitalia
● Experiencing painful urination
● Development of skin growths or lumps around the genitals or anus
● Abnormal bleeding from the vagina or in urine
● Warts, blisters, or sores around the genitalia or anus
● Warts or sores developing around the mouth or throat (rare)

Essentially, if you start to notice any itchiness, visible irritation, or anything that is out of the ordinary surrounding your genitals or anus, it is the safest bet to get a quick STD test done to ensure you are aware of any potential health conditions you may have and to prevent spreading any conditions to anyone else. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, the use of condoms is vital to help prevent the spread to anyone else.

The majority of the time, you will not experience symptoms if you have contracted an STD, so it is vital that you still get tested regularly for early detection and to prevent the spread of anything. It is often recommended that you get tested between sexual partners, and if you are non-monogamous or change partners often, it is recommended that you get testing for STDs done every 3 to 6 months, especially if you aren’t using condoms every time. Having untreated STDs for a long time can lead to long-term side effects, such as infertility or other health-compromising conditions. Most STDs are treated very easily and effectively, so it is much easier to get some quick tests done rather than chance living with an asymptomatic STD long-term and unknowingly spreading the STD to others.

As soon as you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, or anything irregular regarding your genital or anal health, or with your urine, it is important that you seek medical attention for STD testing before engaging in unprotected (condoms are not 100% effective, so ideally avoid any sexual interactions until medically assessed) sexual activities. As most STDs go unnoticed and are asymptomatic, it is recommended that you get tested regularly and with new partners to ensure that you still are not carrying and spreading any STDs to others.

If you have a partner that has tested positive for an STD, get checked right away as well to ensure that if you have contracted the STD, it does not go untreated. If you have any inclinations to believe that you or someone with whom you have had sexual interactions has contracted an STD, it is always best to get tested right away to ensure the health and safety of yourself and those you engage with in sexual activities. Visit Urgent Care Clinic Near Me In Alexandria, VA for all your nonlife-threatening injuries or illness. We serve patients from Alexandria VA, Huntington VA, Arlington VA, and surrounding areas.