Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are common — a lot more common than many people realize. What's more, according to the latest data from the CDC, rates of STDs have been increasing, sometimes dramatically.
Every year, millions of Americans are infected with STDs, and while treatment for most STDs is relatively simple, not everyone knows what to do if they suspect they may have been infected.
DeShawn Taylor, MD, MSc, FACOG, and the Desert Star Institute for Family Planning team offer discreet, compassionate treatment for STDs, as well as confidential screening and guidance to help prevent future infections. If you think you might have an STD, here's what you should do.
As soon as you suspect you might be infected with an STD, it's critically important to schedule a visit so we can perform testing. During your visit, we'll review your symptoms and perform appropriate testing, including blood tests, urinalysis, a physical exam, or other tests. Be sure to discuss your symptoms and concerns openly so we can provide you with the most comprehensive care. All testing is, of course, completely confidential.
The first step in seeking treatment is learning to recognize the signs of STDs. Some of the more common symptoms associated with STDs include:
It's also important to know that many STDs cause very subtle symptoms or none at all until the infection progresses to a more serious stage. That's why regular STD screening is so important for anyone sexually active.
STDs are easily spread from one person to another, and any type of sex — vaginal, oral, or anal — can transmit the germs that cause STD infections. So can using sex toys that haven't been completely cleaned and sterilized between uses. If you suspect you have an STD, you should avoid all sexual contact until you can be tested and you have the results of your test.
If you suspect you have an STD, you should also consider letting your partner know, particularly if you think you may have received it from them or passed it along to them. While it’s OK to wait until you receive your test results, communicating about the need for safe sex, including regular screening for STDs, is important no matter what.
If your test comes back positive for an STD, it's very important to follow your treatment guidelines exactly. That means using your complete prescription of any medication, abstaining from sexual activity for any prescribed amount of time until the infection is under control, and adhering to other guidelines. Failing to do so can mean the infection won't entirely clear up, or it could increase the risk of recurrence and subsequent infection of your partner.
Once treatment is complete, we may recommend additional testing to confirm that the infection has cleared. You may also decide to have an additional test for added peace of mind.
For infections that can't be eradicated with medication (like herpes or HIV), it's vital to maintain and follow a management plan to help keep the infection in check. Our team will provide comprehensive guidelines to help you stay healthy and symptom-free.
Whether or not your test comes back positive, preventing infections in the future is important. Dr. Taylor provides lifestyle guidance to help you reduce your risks through safe sex practices that reduce the risk of infection without intruding on your sex life. If you're sexually active, regular screening is also important for you and your partner.
STDs are extremely common, and they can also be challenging to spot, especially in their early stages. If you think you might have an STD, prompt treatment is essential for preventing complications and avoiding spreading it to others.
To find out how Dr. Taylor can help or to schedule an STD screening, request an appointment online or over the phone with Dr. Taylor and the team at Desert Star Family Planning in Phoenix, Arizona, today.
