STD Testing

Common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) like gonorrhea and syphilis are on the rise, which makes STD testing important for most sexually active people. At Quality Health Source, experienced nurse practitioner Dr. Johnson provides confidential STD testing in the Mableton, Georgia, office. If you’re worried about an STD and need answers, call the office or click on the online booking feature to schedule your testing. 

What is STD testing?

STD testing is urine, blood, or swab testing for sexually transmitted diseases. STDs can occur in bacterial, viral, or fungal forms, and they’re transmitted through sexual contact of all types, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. STD testing can detect these diseases even before you experience any symptoms.  

When should I have STD testing?

Certain routine STD tests are recommended for specific age and risk groups. For example, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends routine chlamydia and gonorrhea testing for all sexually active women under age 25 but only recommends the same tests in older women if they have risk factors such as a new partner or multiple partners. 

You might need STD testing outside your women’s health exams if you have sex with a new partner, discover that a previous partner has an STD, or if you experience possible STD symptoms such as: 

• Burning during urination
• Unusual vaginal or penile discharge
• Discolored or cloudy urine
• Pelvic pain
• Pain during sex
• Genital sores 

Dr. Johnson discusses your sexual habits and history with you to determine your risk factors and recommend the STD tests that are right for you. She’s a compassionate provider who makes it easy to discuss your concerns, so don’t hesitate to ask about anything that worries you. 

What does STD testing involve?

STD testing is generally a quick process at Quality Health Source. Dr. Johnson takes a blood or urine sample, or sometimes a cheek swab, for most STD tests. Other tests, like HPV tests, are part of the pelvic exam during your women’s health exams. 

Some of the different STDs you might test for include: 

• Gonorrhea
• Chlamydia
• Syphilis
• Trichomoniasis
• Genital herpes
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
• Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)

The lab testing process is different for each type of STD, but you’ll generally get test results in 5-10 days. Dr. Johnson will let you know when your results are ready, and she can explain the results. If you test positive for an STD, Dr. Johnson can prescribe an effective treatment. For example, many STDs respond to antibiotics. 

“The sooner, the better” is the best approach for STD testing if you’re concerned about exposure or new symptoms. Call Quality Health Source or click on the online booking feature to make your appointment.