Screening For Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
If you have had unprotected sex and think you may have been exposed to a sexually transmitted disease (STD), the first step is to request STD screening tests from your OBGYN practitioner. STD screening is the best way to protect your sexual health and that of your sex partners, and to ensure that you receive an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Many patients are unaware that some STDs may remain dormant in your body and are unlikely to manifest with any physical symptoms. However, it is still important to undergo STD screening even if you are not currently experiencing any physical symptoms, as you will still require treatment to prevent spreading the infection to your future sexual partner(s).
At Women’s Medical Center, P.C., located in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, our experienced team of Board Certified Obstetricians/ Gynecologists are experts in the field of gynecology, and understand the emotional sensitivity and discretion required when dealing with delicate matters such as sexually transmitted diseases. Your privacy will be protected at all times, and you will be able to discuss your symptoms and ask questions in a safe, respectful, and non-judgmental treatment environment.
After listening to your concerns and performing a comprehensive medical evaluation, your Women’s Medical Center, P.C. treatment provider will recommend the appropriate STD testing procedure(s) to accurately diagnose the underlying cause of your symptoms. If your confidential testing results indicate a need for further treatment, your physician will clearly explain all of your options and help you to select the optimal course of treatment.
STD Screening Procedure
Unfortunately, there isn’t a universal test to screen for all sexually transmitted diseases—the diagnostic tests are specific to each type of infection, although some infections may be diagnosed with a number of different testing methods. During your consultation, your Women’s Medical Center, PC practitioner will discuss which STD screening tests make the most sense for you, based upon a discussion regarding your sexual practices, symptoms, previous STD infections, drug allergies, and whether there is a chance you might be pregnant. Your discussion will be completely confidential, and it is important to be honest with your physician, as he/she will utilize the information you provide to determine which test(s) you will need.
Your STD screening procedure will be performed on-site, in the comfort and privacy of the Women’s Medical Center, PC facility, and may include one or more of the following tests/examinations:
- Blood sample
- Physical exam to look for any visible signs of infection (i.e. sores, a rash, discharge, or warts)
- Tissue swab to collect and examine samples of discharge, saliva, tissue, or cells under a microscope
- Urine sample
Depending on your unique circumstances, your treatment provider may be able to make a diagnosis and provide immediate treatment recommendations with the initial results of your physical exam. In other cases, it may be necessary to send a sample to a lab for testing, which can delay your results for several days or weeks. In all cases, your Women’s Medical Center, PC gynecologist will make every effort to expedite the process to facilitate the best possible treatment outcomes.
Contact Women’s Medical Center, P.C.
When choosing a women’s healthcare provider, it is important to select a practice that is equipped to deliver a broad range of long-term gynecological and reproductive services, rather than simply providing cursory solutions to your immediate concerns. At the Women’s Medical Center, PC, we are committed to forging lasting relationships with our patients, and to providing superior patient care that evolves and adapts to meet your changing healthcare needs. As your gynecological and reproductive requirements shift and change over time, the Women’s Medical Center staff will be there for you at every turn—offering support, education, and guidance to help you make the best possible decisions pertaining to your gynecological and reproductive health.
If you would like additional information about sexually transmitted diseases or the STD screening and treatment options offered at the Women’s Medical Center, PC, please contact our office today. We look forward to speaking with you, and to scheduling your initial appointment with one of our board certified physicians.