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Can I get tested and treated for an STD at an Urgent Care?<br><br>Sexual health is a crucial part of your overall well-being, covering topics such as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Although discussing these issues can sometimes feel uncomfortable, it is important to address them for your health and peace of mind. At DOC-AID Urgent Care, we prioritize your privacy and comfort by offering confidential STD testing and treatment options that are tailored to your needs. Whether you seek answers, reassurance, or treatment, our compassionate team is here to support you every step.<br>
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Can I get tested and treated for an STD at an Urgent Care? DOC-AID Urgent Care
What are STDs? Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), also known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are extremely common, with millions of new cases reported each year in the United States. In 2023, the CDC reported over 2.4 million cases of STIs in the country.Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) don't always present noticeable symptoms; sometimes, they may only cause mild ones. This means you could have an infection without being aware of it. Therefore, if you are sexually active, getting tested regularly is crucial. Consistent STD testing is one of the best ways to protect your health and take care of yourself.
How do STDs spread? Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are primarily transmitted from one person to another through vaginal, oral, or anal sex. Although less common, these infections can also spread through close physical contact, such as intense touching or kissing. Even if you and your partner take precautions, regular testing is essential for maintaining sexual health. For instance, condoms are highly effective, with about a 98% success rate, in preventing STDs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, which are transmitted through bodily fluids. However, they do not provide complete protection against infections that spread through skin-to-skin contact, like herpes, genital warts, and syphilis. It's also important to note that many STDs do not show noticeable symptoms, so you might not be aware that you have one without being tested. Urgent care clinics offer STD testing and treatment, often at lower costs than hospitals or private practices. They typically provide flexible hours to accommodate various schedules. It is important to get tested every 3 to 12 months, depending on your level of sexual activity, to help ensure the safety of both you and your partner.
How does testing for STDs happen at Urgent Care facilities? Seeking testing for STDs can be uncomfortable, and many people may feel hesitant to approach their primary care doctor about it. Urgent care clinics offer a discreet and private alternative, making the testing and treatment easier, faster, and more convenient. The process begins with a basic symptom assessment. The doctor will inquire about any signs you may be experiencing, such as discomfort, unusual discharge, or sores. They may also conduct a physical examination to check for common indicators of STDs. For women, this examination could include a pelvic exam, while for men, it may involve a genital exam to look for symptoms like pimples, blisters, or other changes. To confirm a diagnosis, the doctor will take small samples. This may involve a quick blood draw to check for infections such as HIV, syphilis, or herpes. A urine sample may also be collected to detect common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) like chlamydia and gonorrhea. In some cases, swabs may be taken from the throat, genital area, or anal area if specific testing is necessary.
Can I start treatment for an STD immediately? A doctor may suspect a sexually transmitted disease (STD) based on a physical exam, but most cases require laboratory tests for confirmation. Samples such as blood, urine, or swabs are sent to a lab, and it usually takes a few days to receive the results. Once the results are ready, the urgent care clinic will contact you.