Most of the time, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) have no symptoms, so the only way to know for sure if you have an STD is to get tested. If you've had any type of sexual contact that could transmit STDs, such as vaginal, anal or oral sex, it's important to talk to a doctor or nurse about getting tested. Health care providers typically test people for chlamydia and gonorrhea using a urinalysis or swab. Swabs are taken from the inside of the penis in men or from the cervix in women, and the sample is then studied in a laboratory.
Screening tests are important because if you don't have symptoms, you may not know you're infected. If you're sexually active, getting tested for STDs is one of the most important things you can do to protect your health. Be sure to have an open and honest conversation about your sexual history and STI testing with your doctor and ask if you should be tested for STDs. If you don't feel comfortable talking to your regular healthcare provider about STDs, there are many clinics that offer confidential, free or low-cost testing. In Florida, the rates of STDs are higher than in other states, according to the most recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state surveillance classification.
Sexually transmitted diseases are common, but the types of STI tests you need may vary depending on your risk factors. The clinics also offer HIV and PrEP testing, as well as HIV and STD testing for teens in local high schools. The Duval County Health Department offers several walk-in clinics where you can receive a variety of medical services, including confidential STD testing. The best home STI tests are approved by the FDA and evaluated for safety and accuracy, with fast delivery times for results and support from health professionals. It's very important to get tested if you've had unprotected sexual contact or if you discover that your partner has an STI.
When Should You Get Tested?
In as little as one day, chlamydia can appear in your body, but tests should be done at least five days after exposure.It is recommended to retest two weeks after treatment to ensure that you are free of infection.
