STD Testing — Who Should Do It, and When?

Despite awareness efforts, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are still making their rounds in alarming numbers in the United States. For example, in 2023, more than 2.4 million cases of syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia were diagnosed, and this number is likely low due to underreporting.

At our practice, board-certified gynecologist Dr. Karen F. Brodman and our team provide comprehensive STD testing, and we want to dive into the who, when, and whys of this essential preventive practice.

Why test for sexually transmitted infections

You may have noticed that we use two different terms — infection and disease. This distinction is important because, when we test, we’re looking for signs of infection. People with an STI may not ever develop any outward symptoms. However, when they do, the infection has turned into an active disease.

So, testing for STIs is important because you may not know you’re infected, which can not only lead to your own health issues, but you can infect others.

When we refer to STIs leading to health issues, we’re mostly referring to untreated STIs that lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). While PID can be uncomfortable, it’s also a leading cause of infertility in women.

So, for your health, as well as the health of your sexual partners, regular testing for sexually transmitted infections is essential.

Who should test for STIs

If you’re a sexually active female, make STI testing a part of your wellness regimen.

The CDC recommends more frequent testing for women under the age of 25, and this is due in large part to having multiple partners and unprotected sex, which tends to happen more among younger demographics.

So, age is just a guideline when it comes to testing, and you should test based on risk factors that include:

Being sexually active with multiple partners
Not using protection
Having vaginal, anal, or oral sex
Having sex with bisexual men
Having a previous history of STIs

Outside of risk, there are other reasons to test for STIs, such as when you get pregnant. As part of your prenatal care, we routinely test for STIs.

Furthermore, if you’ve developed any symptoms, you may be dealing with a sexually transmitted disease, so it’s important that you come to see us for testing and treatment. Symptoms often include:

Vaginal discharge
Vaginal itching
Spotting
Sores or warts on your genitals
Pain when you urinate or have sex

The good news is that, in many cases, a course of antibiotics is all it takes to clear up your STD.

When you should test for STIs

When it comes to a recommended STI testing schedule, we’ll base it on your sexual activity, history, and health.

In short, we’ll make this simple testing a regular part of your gynecologic care and track your results and schedule so that you’re well covered.

If you have more questions about testing for STIs or you’d like to sit down with us to develop an appropriate schedule, we invite you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Brodman at our office on the Upper West Side of New York City today.