STD Screening Specialist

The Cedar City Institute of Women's Health

Obstetrics & Gynecology & Women's Health located in Cedar City, UT

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) spread through sexual contact, but they rarely have obvious symptoms. The only way to know if you have one is through STD screening. Get the care you need at The Cedar City Institute of Women's Health. Terence Heath, MD, and the OB/GYN team offer comprehensive STD testing for women in Cedar City, Utah. Call or book an appointment online today.

435-865-9500

STD Screening Q&A

What is STD screening?

STDs are spread by unprotected sexual contact. There are more than 30 types of STDs. Some of the most common are chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, syphilis, and HIV.

STDs are serious diseases, but they don’t often cause obvious symptoms at first. STD screening is a routine medical test to identify and diagnose STDs. If you’re sexually active, regular STD screening is an important part of your reproductive health care.

All types of unprotected sexual contact can spread STDs, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. STD testing may be part of your routine well-woman exam, but you should request STD screening if you think you were exposed to an STI.

What are the symptoms of an STD?

Most STDs and STIs don’t have noticeable symptoms. It’s possible to have an STD without showing any outward signs. If you’ve had sex with another person, you’re at risk of developing an STD.

Some STDs can cause symptoms, particularly if the STD has gone undetected for some time. Signs and symptoms of STDs can include:

Abnormal discharge
Burning sensation with urination
Itching or irritation around the genitals
Sores or bumps on the genitals

These symptoms can be caused by other conditions, not just STDs. The only way to know for sure if you have an STD is to get screened for STDs at The Cedar City Institute of Women's Health.

When should I get STD screening?

If you’re sexually active, regular STD testing can benefit your health. The type of STD testing you need often depends on your age, sexual history, and other risk factors.

Your risk of contracting STDs increases if you have unprotected sex, have multiple sexual partners, or have sex with someone who has multiple partners themselves.

Everyone over the age of 13 should be screened for HIV (the disease that causes AIDS) at least once. You could benefit from more frequent HIV testing, depending on your lifestyle. Anyone who has unprotected sex with new partners or shares needles for injectable drugs should be screened for STDs at least once a year.

Take control over your health and make STD screening part of your routine care. Call The Cedar City Institute of Women’s Health or book your STD screening appointment online today.