STIs & STDs
Please talk to us about your concerns. We can help you decide which tests are right for you and create a health plan that fits your life.
STIs & STDs?
A Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) is an infection passed from one person to another through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Common STIs include Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Human Papillomavirus (HPV), Herpes, Syphilis, and HIV.
An STI becomes a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) when the infection causes symptoms or health problems. However, many people with STIs have no symptoms at all, which is why they can be spread without anyone knowing.
Your Health is Our Priority
We are here to provide confidential, non-judgmental care and support. Testing is simple and can often be done with a urine sample, a blood test, or a quick swab. Most STIs are treatable, and many are completely curable with medication.
Why Is Screening Important?
Regular STI screening is a critical part of preventive healthcare for all sexually active individuals.
You can have an STI and feel perfectly fine. Screening is the only way to know for sure if you have an infection.
When left untreated, some STIs can lead to serious long-term health issues, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, chronic pain, and an increased risk of certain cancers.
Getting tested helps you protect the health of your sexual partner(s).
Knowing your status can provide you with peace of mind and empower you to make informed decisions about your health.
General Screening Recommendations
We follow guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the CDC. Recommendations are personalized, but here are some general guidelines:
Yearly screening is recommended for all sexually active women younger than 25, as well as for women 25 and older with risk factors such as a new sexual partner or multiple partners. Routine screening is also performed during pregnancy.
All adults and adolescents from ages 13 to 64 should be tested at least once for HIV. More frequent testing may be recommended based on your risk factors.
Screening is recommended if you have specific risk factors or during pregnancy.
We screen for HPV as part of routine cervical cancer screening with a Pap test, typically starting at age 21.
All pregnant patients are screened for several STIs, including HIV, Syphilis, Gonorrhea, Chlamydia and Hepatitis B, at their first prenatal visit.
How to Protect Yourself
You can take active steps to lower your risk of getting an STI.
Consistent and correct use of condoms is highly effective at reducing the transmission of most STIs.
The HPV vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect against the types of HPV that cause most cervical cancers and genital warts. It’s recommended for everyone up to age 26, and some adults ages 27-45 may also decide to get vaccinated after discussing it with their provider.
Talk openly with your partner(s) about sexual health and testing before you become intimate.
See your provider regularly and don’t hesitate to ask questions about STI testing.