Many types of sexually transmitted diseases or infections may have no symptoms. You could be carrying a disease and spreading it to others without knowing it. STD screening is an important tool to determine if you have been exposed to an infection, even for those with only one partner or without symptoms. At FEM Women’s Wellness, we offer STD screening and testing for all types of sexually transmitted infections at our Reno/Lake Tahoe, NV, clinic.
When Should You Have STD Screening?
STD screening can be performed for many commonly spread infections. Chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, HPV and other STDs are recommended for routine screenings, but how often depends on your age, lifestyle and other factors. STD screening for all possible infections is not performed as part of routine wellness exams – if you want screening, it is a procedure you will need to discuss with your GYN provider.
Most women should be screened for HIV at least once and rescreened as needed based on sexual activity. Our GYN specialists at FEM Women’s Wellness can recommend appropriate screening schedules based on your lifestyle and personal specifications.
STD Testing
If you have any symptoms of an STD, you should receive testing. While many STDs do not have symptoms, others can alert you to an infection quickly after exposure. Any changes in the vaginal area can be a sign of infection. STD testing should be considered if you have any of the following:
- Itching, burning or pain in the vaginal area
- Burning or pain when urinating
- Bleeding during or after sex
- Pelvic pain
- Sores or blisters in the vaginal area
- Thick or excessive vaginal discharge
If you test positive for any STD, even something as common as HPV, you may want to undergo STD screening for other infections.
STD screening and testing can ensure you stay on top of your reproductive and overall health. We offer a wide selection of testing options for sexually transmitted infections at FEM Women’s Wellness. To schedule a wellness exam or STD testing, contact our clinic in the Carson City, Lake Tahoe and Reno, NV, area.