STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) are infections that are mostly spread through sexual activity, including vaginal, oral, and anal sex. Some infections can be spread through close personal contact, such as kissing, or from a mother to her unborn child.
STDs are caused by bacteria,viruses, or parasites. Millions of Americans are infected with some type of STD every year, with half of diagnoses occurring in teens and young adults between the ages of 15 and 24. Common STDs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, HIV, and HPV (human papillomavirus) infection.
Left untreated, certain STDs can cause devastating and long-term health problems such as blindness, brain damage, infertility, birth defects, and even death. Fortunately, all STDs can be treated, and some can be cured entirely. STD testing can help you get diagnosed and treated so you may avoid serious complications.
Other names: STD screening, STI (sexually transmitted infections) test, STI screening
STD tests are used to find out if you have been infected with an STD. Testing can help you get the treatment you need and may help prevent the spread of disease.
STDs don't always cause symptoms, so it is possible to catch or spread an infection even if you or your partner seem healthy. So, you may need an STD screening test if you are at higher risk for infection. Screening is a type of test done for people who don't have symptoms.
While all sexually active people could potentially get an STD, testing is mostly recommended for people who fall in one or more of the following risk categories:
Some STDs do cause symptoms. Symptoms vary depending on the type of STD, but you may need testing if you have one or more of the following symptoms:
The office of North Pointe OB/GYN Associates is located on the Northside Hospital-Forsyth campus, and we perform deliveries at the Women's Center at Northside Hospital-Forsyth.
