Thank you Claudia Sencer for 41 years of service to your patients. Enjoy your retirement!
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STI/STD Screening in Charlottesville, VA
What Is STI Screening?
STI (sexually transmitted infection) screening involves checking for infections that can be transmitted through sexual activity. While "STD" (sexually transmitted disease) is an older term, these tests are primarily designed to detect infections, even before symptoms develop or complications arise. Regular screening is essential for anyone who is sexually active, especially those with multiple partners or other risk factors.
Tests might include a blood test, vaginal swab, or urine sample, depending on the type of infection being screened for. Early detection of STIs enables timely treatment, preventing progression to more serious health issues and reducing the risk of transmission.
Who Needs STI Screening?
STI screening is recommended for:
- Sexually active women under the age of 26
- Men who have sex with men
- People with multiple partners or new sex partners
- Anyone with symptoms of a sexually transmitted infection (painful sores or unusual vaginal discharge)
It's important to note that some sexually transmitted infections have no symptoms, while others may cause itching, burning, unusual discharge, sores, or pelvic pain. Regular screening is a proactive step in preventing more serious consequences from an infection without obvious symptoms.
How Is STI Testing Done?
STI testing methods vary. For example:
- Blood tests are used to detect HIV, and Hepatitis C
- Swab tests collect samples from the genital area to test for genital Herpes, HPV infection, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomonas.
- A urine sample can also be used for certain infections like gonorrhea or chlamydia but is less accurate.
Your provider will recommend the best tests based on your symptoms, sexual history, and treatment guidelines.
What To Expect During Your Appointment
When you come in for STI testing, your provider will start with a discussion about your sexual health and any symptoms or concerns. Based on your risk factors and needs, they’ll recommend specific STI tests, which might include a blood test, swabs, or a urine sample.
Most tests are quick and painless, with results often available within a few days. If any infections are identified, your provider will discuss treatment options and next steps. They will also guide you on protecting yourself and your partners in the future.
Why Choose The Center For Advanced Gynecology
The Center for Advanced Gynecology, established in 2018, is dedicated to improving your health by offering expertise in various areas, with a specific focus on gynecological care and advanced surgical techniques when surgery is needed.
Our team provides specialized expertise in non-surgical treatment of chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, pudendal neuralgia, and vaginal, vulvar, and bladder pain.
Since opening our doors, we have recognized the need in our community for more than just specialty care and have a growing practice in routine gynecologic care, cancer screening, Pap smears, menopausal management, hormonal imbalances, hormone replacement therapy, breast care, contraceptive care, urinary incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on your risk factors, but generally, it’s recommended for anyone who is sexually active to get tested annually. Those with higher risks, such as having multiple partners, may need more frequent screening. The Center for Disease Control considers women at high risk if they have a new partner, more than one sex partner, a sex partner with other partners, or a sex partner who has an STI; inconsistent condom use when not in a mutually monogamous relationship; have had a previous STI; have a history of exchanging sex for money or drugs; or have a history of incarceration.
Yes, STI testing can include HIV testing. Your provider can include this in your screening based on your history and preferences.
While genital herpes caused by the herpes simplex virus cannot be cured, antiviral treatments can manage symptoms and reduce the risk of outbreaks and spreading the infection to others.
Certain types of HPV can cause cervical cancer. Regular cervical cancer screening, including an HPV test, helps detect high-risk HPV strains early, improving treatment outcomes.
Your provider will guide you through the next steps, which typically include treatment, notifying your sex partners, and follow-up care. Early treatment is key to managing the infection and preventing complications.