When should you get std testing in West Palm Beach? STD stands for sexually transmitted disease. Sometimes people refer to it as STI or sexually transmitted infection. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were over 2.5 million syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia cases in 2021. In the US, over 68 million people are living with sexually transmitted infections. These numbers do not include unreported cases.
STIs have nonspecific symptoms, sometimes none, making them difficult to detect. The stigma also discourages people from getting tested. Unfortunately, if you have STD and don’t receive the proper treatment, it could lead to severe health problems like infertility and cancer. The best way to know if you have it is to get tested.
STIs, STDs, and STD Testing
What Makes STDs and STIs Different?
These two terms are often used interchangeably. STD is a sexually transmitted disease that is a result of STI. An infection occurs when viruses, parasites, and bacteria enter your body. The infection can happen even before the disease starts to develop.
Getting an STI doesn’t necessarily mean it can progress to an STD. The most important way to stop the spread of STIs is to get tested since the infection does not present with distinct signs or symptoms.
Who Should Get Tested?
The following people are suitable candidates for STI testing:
- You’re about to enter into a romantic relationship with someone
- You and your partner are contemplating engaging in unprotected sex
- Your partner or spouse cheated on you
- You or your partner has multiple sexual partners
- You show symptoms that could indicate STI
Where Can You Get Tested?
Most people aren’t comfortable openly talking about STD tastings, so we’ve compiled some of the places where you can get tested:
- Doctor’s Office – You can book an appointment with your doctor to get an STD test.
- Local Health Clinics – Government healthcare clinics also offer affordable STI tests for HIV, syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea.
- Mobile Healthcare Companies – Some companies offer urgent care services directly to your home.
What Should You Get Tested For?
To know what tests you need, you should consult with your doctor. The following are some of your options:
- HIV
- Syphilis
- Gonorrhea
- Chlamydia
- Hepatitis B
- Trichomoniasis
How Do You Prepare for an STD Test?
It’s essential to recognize that getting tested is your responsibility, not just for your health but also for your partner's or future partner's well-being. Deciding to get tested is a wise and courageous move. STD testing is for everyone.
When should you get tested? If you had a sexual encounter today, don’t get tested the next day because the infection will not be detected that early. We suggest you discuss the frequency with your healthcare provider. The incubation period to get infected can stretch between a week to several months after the sexual encounter.
Remember to answer all questions honestly if you’re getting tested at the doctor’s office. Omitting details or lying about them could result in an undiagnosed STI.
Do You Have More Questions About STD Testing in West Palm Beach?
You don’t need to go anywhere if you want to get tested. At MedForce Mobile, we bring urgent care services directly to your home. We know that visiting the ER could lead to hassles and inconveniences, especially if you have trouble securing transportation. To get the services and tests you need, just give us a call.
