What is STD testing?
Many sexually transmitted infections cause no symptoms, especially in women, so testing is the only reliable way to know. Depending on the infection, testing uses a urine sample, a vaginal or cervical swab, or a blood test.
What symptoms should prompt testing?
- Unusual vaginal discharge or odor
- Burning with urination
- Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
- Bleeding between periods or after sex
- Sores, bumps or itching in the genital area
Who should be tested?
Testing is recommended for anyone with symptoms, anyone with a new or multiple partners, anyone whose partner has an infection, and as part of routine screening for sexually active women under 25. Your provider can recommend which tests make sense for you.
How is testing done here?
Your provider will ask a few confidential questions about symptoms and exposure, then collect the samples needed. Many results come back within a few days. If a test is positive, your provider will explain treatment, partner notification and follow-up testing.
Why does early treatment matter?
Untreated chlamydia and gonorrhea can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, chronic pelvic pain and fertility problems. Many common infections are treated with a short course of medication once they are diagnosed.
Schedule a consultation in Fort Lauderdale
To make an appointment with Women’s Surgical Specialists, call (954) 771-8888, Monday–Friday, 9:00 am–4:30 pm. Our office is at 2800 East Commercial Blvd, Suite 101, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308, and we accept Medicare and most major insurance plans.
This page is general information, not medical advice. For a medical emergency, call 911.