Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can range in severity, but many can have an ongoing impact on your health, causing infertility and other health complications. At Serenity Healthcare, PLLC, family care provider Shanekwah Melville, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, provides comprehensive STD testing to ensure your optimal health and peace of mind. To make an appointment, call the office in Houston, Texas, or book online today.

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What is STD testing?

STD testing is a group of diagnostic tests that help determine whether you have a sexually transmitted disease (STD).

STDs can range in severity, but many can have an ongoing impact on your health, causing infertility and other health issues. The sooner you get tested for an STD, the better your provider can treat your condition, as many STDs are best treated in their early stages.

However, many STDs can lead to long-term and irreversible consequences.

Why should I be tested for STDs?

STD testing is a good idea to prevent risk of other health problems and ensure your overall health is in good condition, especially for patients who are sexually active and have had unprotected sex.

If an STD is left undiagnosed, conditions like human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and syphilis can lead to serious consequences for both the patient and their partner.

What are the most common STDs?

The most common STDs include:

  • Syphilis
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV)
  • Chlamydia
  • Gonorrhea
  • Hepatitis B and C
  • Herpes

These are just a few STDs that are often tested, but there is much more. When serious diseases like HIV progresses, it can affect your body’s ability to fight off the infection.

There is no cure for HIV, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, HIV doesn’t have to affect your ability to live a long, happy life.

Who should be tested for STDs?

It’s important to receive STD testing if you fall into one of the following categories:

  • Sexually active women under the age of 25
  • Sexually active women over the age of 25 who have multiple partners
  • Men who have sex with men

At Serenity Healthcare, PLLC, Shanekwah can help you decide which STD testing is right for you.

How often should I be tested for STDs?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends important guidelines for STD testing, including:

  • Everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 should be tested once for HIV
  • Sexually active women under the age of 25 should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia annually
  • Pregnant women should be tested for syphilis, HIV, as well as Hepatitis B and C in early pregnancy
  • All sexually active gay and bisexual men should be tested annually for syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea, and should also have frequent HIV testing

Shanekwah can also recommend a testing schedule that best suits your sexual habits.

To learn more about STD testing, make an appointment at Serenity Healthcare, PLLC by calling the office or booking online today.