Confidential STD Testing Clinic in Santa Clara, CA

Being concerned about your sexual health is nothing to be shy about, and if you are concerned about the possibility of infection, the more honest you are with your doctor, the better the care and treatment you will receive.
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are very common in the United States, and according to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), approximately 68 million people in the US are living with STIs, and this number is thought to be much higher in reality as it is likely many cases go unreported.

A sexually active person is advised to be tested for STIs, especially if:

●     You begin a new relationship
●     You and your partner are considering not using condoms
●      Infidelity in the relationship
●     If you have multiple partners
●      You may be displaying symptoms of an STI or STD

To learn which STD you should be tested for, you are encouraged to talk to your doctor, and they may suggest being tested for one, or more.

Some of the common STDs and STIs tested for are:

●     Chlamydia
●     Gonorrhea
●     Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
●     Hepatitis B
●     Syphilis
●     Trichomoniasis
●     Human papillomavirus (HPV)
●     Scabies
●     Lice in the pubic area
●     Viral hepatitis
●     Bacterial vaginitis
●     Zika virus

There are also online, or at-home STD tests available, however, they are not always reliable, and it’s always a good idea to check if the test is FDA approved. Herpes is also commonly tested for STDs, however, your doctor will likely not test for herpes unless you are aware of a likely exposure.

Many people do not receive prompt treatment for STIs and STDs for the simple reason many STIs and STDs can have non-specific, or no symptoms at all. If left untreated STIs and STDs can lead to severe health problems, including infertility and cancer. Being tested is the only way to know for sure if you’ve contracted an STI or STD.

Some of the more common symptoms of an STI or STD include:

●     Pain when urinating
●     Discharge from penis, vagina, or anus
●     Lumps on the skin around the genitals or anus
●     Itching around the anus or genitals
●     Blisters, warts, or sores around genitals or anus
●     Rash
●     Vaginal bleeding
●     Warts in mouth or throat (very rare)

Treatments and outcomes depend on the virus being treated, and most will reduce the symptoms and progression of an infection. For example, medications are available to limit the severity and frequency of genital herpes outbreaks, while at the same time reducing the risk of passing the virus on to others. Treatment options for STDs and STIs generally include a single dose of an antibiotic, which can cure many parasitic infections and sexually transmitted bacteria. Most often taken by mouth, antibiotics can also be given through injection or topically applied to the infected area.

All information shared with a medical professional is private and confidential, including test results. Speaking with your doctor about your sexual history and activity is all about your health, so honesty is always the best policy when discussing your sexual health with your healthcare practitioner. Several STIs are considered notifiable diseases, and your doctor is legally obligated to report any positive STI test results to the federal government. The NIH and CDC track information about STDs and STIs to inform public health initiatives.

Some notifiable STIs include:
●     Chancroid
●     Chlamydia
●     Gonorrhea
●     Hepatitis
●     HIV
●     Syphilis     

Get Well Urgent Care in Santa Clara, CA offers a vast range of specialist services for you and your family, including testing for STDs and STIs. Our team of friendly and caring medical professionals and staff are here to provide the best care you and your family deserve. For more information, contact us today or book an appointment online. Visit our clinic conveniently located at 2803 E El Camino Real Santa Clara, CA, 95051. We serve patients from Santa Clara CA, San Jose CA, Campbell CA, Cupertino CA, Sunnyvale CA, Milpitas CA, Fruitdale CA and surrounding areas.