Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a major public health issue. Every year, about 20 million people in the United States get an STD diagnosis. Not all STDs cause symptoms and STD testing is the only way to know if you have an infection. David L. Howard, MD, Ph.D., in Las Vegas, Nevada, offers in-office STD testing. Call or schedule your STD testing online today.
STDs are contagious diseases passed from person to person through sexual contact, including anal, vaginal, or oral sex. However, some STDs spread through nonsexual intimate touching like kissing or skin-to-skin contact.
STDs are bacterial, parasitic, fungal, or viral infections. Common types of STDs include:
STDs affect all types of people. However, women may develop more serious health complications from an STD, especially when left untreated.
If you’re sexually active, you need STD testing. Dr. Howard is an experienced OB/GYN and primary care provider and can talk to you about STDs and when you should get tested.
In general, he recommends STD testing if you’re sexually active with multiple partners or your sexual partner has multiple intimate partners. You should also get tested if you have sex without protection or your sexual partner tested positive for an STD.
STDs don’t always cause symptoms, but you should schedule STD testing at the office of David L. Howard, MD, Ph.D., if you have pelvic pain, abnormal genital secretions, or pain during intercourse.
There are many types of STD tests. The type of testing you need depends on the infection Dr. Howard wants to check for during your visit. His hybrid clinic offers in-office lab testing for your convenience.
STD testing might include blood work, urinalysis, or a cheek swab. For women with concerns about HPV, testing might include a pelvic exam and collection of cells from the cervix.
Dr. Howard explains when you can expect the results from your STD testing at your appointment. Some tests may give immediate results; however, most STD tests take five to 10 days to complete.
Once Dr. Howard has your results, he contacts you to discuss them. If your tests are negative, he spends time talking to you about safe sex practices to protect your health. He may also recommend vaccinations, such as the HPV vaccine.
If your tests come back positive, Dr. Howard provides the necessary treatment. Antibiotics and antifungal medications clear up bacterial, parasitic, and fungal STDs.
However, there are no cures for viral STDs like HIV and HPV, but Dr. Howard provides medical care and education to manage these infections.
To find out more about STD testing, call the office of David L. Howard, MD, Ph.D., or schedule an appointment online today.