When Is It Time for an STD Test?

If you’re sexually active, here are some frightening statistics you should know. 

Approximately one million sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are acquired globally every day. In the United States, more than 20 million new STD cases are reported each year, with 50% of those striking teenagers and young adults under 25.  

Even though STDs are common, talking about these diseases can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. 

At The Women's Center at Life Point Medical in Clayton, GA, family nurse practitioner Monique Petteys offers understanding, skilled care, and a dedication to your complete health and wellness. We offer confidential STD testing and treatment at our office. 

Here’s some helpful information on STDs and who should get tested.

STDs explained

Sexually transmitted diseases are infections transmitted through oral, vaginal, or anal intercourse. You may also hear STDs referred to as “sexually transmitted infections” (STIs) or “venereal diseases.” 

More than 25 types of STDs exist, and each is caused by a different bacterium or virus. The most common STDs include:

• Trichomoniasis
• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea (“Clap”)
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) / Genital warts
• Hepatitis B
• HIV / AIDS 
• Syphilis
• Genital warts

Some STDs, which can have serious complications if left untreated, have no obvious symptoms. That’s why the best way to determine if you have an STD is by getting tested.  

Who should get an STD test?

If you are sexually active, especially with different partners, you should be tested for STDs.  However, your sexual activity, history, and age can put you at a greater or lesser risk for STDs. 

Here’s what the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends about who, especially, should get a STD test.

• Women in early pregnancy: syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis B tests
• Sexually active women under 25: annual gonorrhea and chlamydia tests
• Women over 25 with new/multiple partners: annual test for gonorrhea and chlamydia
• All teens and adults 13 to 64: at least one HIV test in your lifetime
• Sexually active gay and bisexual men: annual test for syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea
• Sexually active gay and bisexual men with multiple/anonymous partners: test for STDs every 3-6 months
• Anyone who has unprotected sex or shares needles: annual HIV test

Here’s how STDs are treated

STD treatment depends on which STD you have. 

A single dose of antibiotics can often cure many STDs and parasitic infections, including syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis. Antiviral drugs are prescribed for herpes or HIV.

If you are sexually active and have not been tested for STDs, or you need to schedule your next STD test, call The Women's Center at Life Point Medical at 706-250-7306, or request an appointment online.