STD Testing Specialist

How Often Should STD Testing Be Performed?

Sexually active women who have unprotected sex with multiple partners should be checked for sexually transmitted diseases at least once every six months. If a woman is in a committed relationship with only one partner, the doctor may recommend testing only once a year at the same time as her yearly pelvic exam and pap smear. Even if a person is practicing safe sex and does not have multiple partners, a chance exists that an STD can show up because of a partner’s indiscretion.

How Are STDs Commonly Transmitted?

STDs are commonly transmitted through some form of sexual act or the exchange of bodily fluids. Herpes or genital warts, however, are two STDs that are passed from person to person through skin-to-skin contact if an open wound or lesion exists. The exchange of fluids is not necessary. They are sexually transmitted through all types of sexual contact, including oral, vaginal and anal sex. In some cases, such as genital warts, a person may not be contagious unless he or she is experiencing an outbreak. It is extremely important for a patient to protect themselves at all times from the possibility of sexually transmitted diseases.

When Should Parents Start Teaching Their Children About STDs?

A soon as parents have the slightest belief that their children may be experimenting with any type of sexual activity, they should begin teaching them about the dangers of unprotected sex and sexually transmitted diseases. When girls begin to notice their body changing and have their first period, it is a good idea to take them to a gynecologist to help them learn about their bodies and how they work.