About 1 in 5 Americans has a sexually transmitted infection (STI) at any given time. STIs and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are incredibly common, but they often don’t have obvious symptoms, which means it's possible to have an STD without knowing it.
If you’re sexually active, regular STD testing is one of the most important things you can do to protect your health and the health of your partners. But how often should you get tested? Our team at OB-GYN Associates of Marietta is here to help you find answers.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how often you should get tested for STDs. Your needs depend on factors like your age, sexual activity, number of partners, and whether you have symptoms.
In general, we recommend that sexually active women under 25 years old get tested for chlamydia and gonorrhea every year. If you’re 25 or older, you should get tested if you have new or multiple partners.
Pregnant women should be screened for syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis B early in pregnancy, because these STDs can cause complications for the developing baby.
Anyone who has symptoms of an STD or who had unprotected sex with a new partner should get STD testing promptly. Even if you’re in a trusting, monogamous relationship, it’s smart to discuss STD testing with your doctor — especially if you’re planning to get pregnant or you haven’t been tested in a while.
Some of the most common STDs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, and HIV can be transmitted without symptoms. That means you or your partner could carry an infection without knowing it.
Left untreated, some STDs can lead to complications including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, and increased risk of HIV transmission. Certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection can also significantly increase your risk of cervical cancer.
Routine STD testing is the best way to detect infections early, even if you don’t have symptoms. When you get an early diagnosis, you can get timely treatment and avoid more serious complications. Plus, regular testing gives you peace of mind about your sexual health and helps protect the health of your partner(s).
Do you need an STD test? We offer comprehensive and confidential STD testing in Marietta and Woodstock, Georgia. We start by reviewing your symptoms and your medical history. Depending on the type of STD test you need, it might involve a urine sample, blood draw, swab, or physical exam.
Collecting the sample is quick and simple, and we send it to a lab for analysis. We share the results with you when they come back, and remember that our team is here to answer your questions in a safe and judgment-free space.
Still not sure if you need STD testing — or which test is right for you? Now’s a great time to schedule an appointment. Regular screening is a simple, empowering step toward better health. Contact us at OB-GYN Associates of Marietta to get started.
