Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a significant public health concern in the United States and affects millions of people every year. At KEM Health Obstetrics & Gynecology in Atlanta, Georgia, the experienced OB/GYNs offer STD screening and treatment. To schedule a confidential and patient-centered STD evaluation, call the office or request an appointment online today.
request an appointmentWhat is an STD?
An STD, or sexually transmitted disease, is an infection passed from person-to-person through sexual contact. A person passes an STD to others through contact with skin, genitals, mouth, rectum, or body fluids.
Common STDs include:
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Trichomonas
- Genital herpes
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Syphilis
- Hepatitis B
Though STDs affect males and females, women experience more serious health complications from STDS, including an increased risk of infertility and gynecological cancer. STD screening and treatment may prevent these complications.
Who needs STD screening and treatment?
You may benefit from STD screening if you’re sexually active. Even if you don’t have symptoms, an STD can affect your health.
In general, the women’s health experts recommend you undergo STD screening for HIV at least once in your lifetime. They also perform annual screening for chlamydia and gonorrhea in sexually active women with more than one sexual partner.
During pregnancy, your OB/GYN at KEM Health Obstetrics & Gynecology screens for chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis B, HIV, and syphilis.
You also need STD screening if your current or past sexual partner tests positive for an STD.
If you have an STD, your treatment plan depends on what type of STD you have and the severity of your infection.
What can I expect during an STD screening?
You can expect a compassionate and confidential exam when you come in for STD screening and treatment at KEM Health Obstetrics & Gynecology. Before administering any tests, your OB/GYN first asks about your sexual history and symptoms.
They perform a physical and pelvic exam and then determine the types of STD screening you need. The method of STD screening varies, and your OB/GYN may require a blood test, urine sample, swab of cervical cells, or sample of genital secretions.
Some STD screening tests provide results right away, while others may take a week or more. Your provider lets you know at your screening when to expect your results.
What are the STD treatments?
Once available, your OB/GYN at KEM Health Obstetrics & Gynecology discusses your STD screening results and the recommended treatment. For bacterial, parasitic, and fungal STDs, an antibiotic or antifungal medication clears up the infection.
Viral STDs like HIV and HPV currently have no cure, so your OB/GYN prescribes medication that manages symptoms.
To schedule your STD screening and treatment at KEM Health Obstetrics & Gynecology, call the office or book an appointment online today.