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STI Testing

Physicians and Surgeons for Women

Obstetricians & Gynecology located in Springfield, OH

Millions of people test positive for a sexually transmitted infection (STI) every year. Most STIs do not cause symptoms and, when left untreated, may have long-term health consequences, especially in women. Physicians and Surgeons for Women offer confidential STI testing at their Springfield, Ohio office. To schedule your STI test, call the office.

STI Testing Q & A

What are STIs?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) include bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections that pass from person to person through sexual contact. STIs are a significant public health concern and affect millions of people every year.

Types of STIs include:

  • Chlamydia
  • Gonorrhea
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV)
  • Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
  • Syphilis
  • Herpes
  • Genital warts
  • Trichomoniasis
  • Hepatitis B

 
Though men and women are at risk of contracting an STI, the health consequences are far graver in women than men. When left undiagnosed and untreated, STIs in women may lead to infertility or gynecologic cancer.

When do I need STI testing?

You need STI testing if you have more than one sexual partner, a sexual partner with multiple sexual partners, or any sign or symptom associated with an STI (i.e. burning, itching, discharge, sores, etc). The board-certified providers at Physicians and Surgeons for Women also recommend STI testing for women who frequently have sexual intercourse without condoms.

There is no wrong time to schedule STI testing at Physicians and Surgeons for Women. We can help if you have concerns about STIs, whether you have symptoms or not.

What happens during STI testing?

The specifics of your STI testing at Physicians and Surgeons for Women depend on your unique health needs and sexual history. 

To better understand what STIs to test for, your provider first spends time talking to you to gather information about your sexual history. They also ask about symptoms, if any, and your general health and well-being.

For your STI testing, your provider may need a sample of blood, urine, or genital secretions. They may also take a biopsy of any abnormal tissue.

What happens after STI testing?

After your STI testing, your provider advises when you can expect the results. Once your provider has the results of your STI testing, they contact you to discuss their findings and provide recommendations to improve and protect your health. 

Your provider may suggest you get the HPV vaccine to protect yourself from this widespread STI. Certain strains of HPV increase a woman’s risk of cervical cancer.

If you test positive for an STI, your provider prescribes treatment to eliminate or manage the infection. 

STI testing benefits your current and future health. Call Physicians and Surgeons for Women to schedule an appointment.