STD Testing

At Medical Access in Germantown, Maryland, and in Alexandria and Woodbridge, Virginia, the dedicated and skilled care providers offer discrete and efficient STD testing. You can expect diligent care and treatment and rely on the team for regular screenings as needed. Book your appointment using the online scheduler or by calling the office nearest you today.

What are the most common STD tests?

STD tests can be customized for your needs and any symptoms you may have. Some of the most commonly performed STD tests are:

• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Herpes
• Syphilis
• HIV
• HPV
• Hepatitis
• Trichomoniasis

You can also get tested for other, less common, STDs if needed by consulting with your doctor at Medical Access. 

How often do I need routine STD screenings?

How often you need an STD screening depends on each person. Factors in your testing schedule include your age, your history, your sexual activity, and your STD risk factors, along with other individual factors as determined by your care provider. Some general guidelines include:

• HIV testing at least once between 13-64 years old
• Hepatitis C testing at least once if you were born between 1945 and 1965
• Syphilis test if you engage in at-risk behaviors like multiple sex partners or IV drug use
• Herpes test if you have symptoms or had herpes in the past
• HPV and Pap smear test after age 30, or earlier if you’ve had an abnormal Pap smear
• Chlamydia and gonorrhea tests yearly if you're under 25, or over 25 with at-risk behavior

Your provider will discuss all of your risk factors with you to determine how often you need routine STD screening. Regular screenings are separate from as-needed tests that you should get if you have STD symptoms.

What are the signs of an STD?

One of the main reasons that STDs spread so quickly is that many sufferers have no idea they have an STD, so they pass it to others without knowing. Many STDs just don't have obvious symptoms, at least in their early phases. But, when STDs do have symptoms, you may notice the following things.

• Pain during urination
• Genital itching
• Lower belly pain
• Bleeding between menstrual periods for women
• Pain during intercourse
• Unusual penile or vaginal discharge
• Painful bowel movements
• Sores, blisters, or bumps on genitals

If you have one or more of these symptoms, get in touch with your  provider at Medical Access right away. STD tests, which are typically simple blood and urine tests, can often identify the cause of your symptoms right away. 

If you have an STD, your care provider can prescribe effective treatment promptly. Many STDs are treated with large-dose antibiotics, but in other cases, you may need other drugs or treatment solutions. 

Use the online scheduler or call the Medical Access office nearest you to book your appointment now.