Question: Should I Be Tested for STDS?
Wondering whether you have a sexually transmitted disease or STD can be an extremely stressful event. It’s often easy to confuse the symptoms of STDS with other vaginal infections such as bacterial vaginosis or vaginal yeast infections, making it urgent that you consult with your gynecologists anytime you are unsure about reproductive health issues.
Answer: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists or the ACOG recommends testing for sexually transmitted diseases or STDS, also called venereal diseases or VD, in the following instances:
- When you have a history of multiple sexual partners or when your partner has a sexual history of multiple partners.
- If you have had sexual contact with a person who has a culture-proven sexually transmitted disease.
- If you have a history of repeated STDs you should have regular STD testing according to your health care provider’s instructions.
- If you have been present at STD clinics then STD testing may be appropriate.
- All sexually active women under the age of 25 should be routinely screened for chlamydia; other aged women who may not have any symptoms, but who are at high risk for sexually transmitted diseases also need routine screening for chlamydial infection.
- All sexually active adolescents, as well as all other women at high risk for STDs, need routine screening for gonorrhea.
Remember, if you think you have any symptoms that may indicate the presence of a sexually transmitted disease or STD, formerly called venereal diseases or VD, consult your gynecologist for testing.
