I Think I Have an STD—What Do I Do?
If you suspect you have a sexually transmitted disease (STD), it’s natural to feel anxious or worried. However, taking prompt and informed action is crucial for your health and peace of mind. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if you think you might have an STD.
Don’t Panic—But Don’t Ignore It
First and foremost, try to stay calm. STDs are common, and many are treatable with the right care. Ignoring symptoms or hoping they will go away on their own can lead to complications, so it’s important to address your concerns head-on.
Identify Symptoms
Pay close attention to any unusual symptoms you may be experiencing. Our providers will ask about things like unusual discharge, itching, burning during urination, sores, rashes, or pain in the genital area. However, some STDs can be asymptomatic, meaning you might not notice any symptoms at all. If you’re sexually active and something feels off, it’s better to get checked even if you don’t have obvious signs.
Come See Us
The next step is to schedule an appointment to get tested. At your appointment, be open and honest about your symptoms and sexual history—this information helps your provider determine the most accurate diagnosis and treatment. Testing may include a physical exam, urine tests, blood tests, or swabs. Testing is quick and often painless, and it’s the only way to know for sure if you have an STD.
Follow Treatment Plans
If your test results are positive, your provider will discuss treatment options with you. Many STDs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, can be cured with antibiotics. For viral STDs like herpes or HIV, there are treatments available that can manage the condition and reduce symptoms. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully, complete the full course of any prescribed medication, and attend all follow-up appointments.
Inform Your Partner
If you’re diagnosed with an STD, it’s important to inform any recent sexual partners so they can get tested and treated as well. This can be a difficult conversation, but it’s necessary to prevent the spread of the infection and to protect their health.
Practice Safe Sex Moving Forward
To reduce the risk of contracting or spreading STDs in the future, practice safe sex by using condoms and having regular screenings. Limiting the number of sexual partners and having open conversations about sexual health with your partners can also help protect you from STDs.
If you think you might have an STD, taking action is the best way to protect your health and prevent further complications. Schedule an appointment to get tested, and following treatment plans, you can manage the situation effectively. Remember, many STDs are treatable, and with the right care, you can continue to lead a healthy and fulfilling life.
