Testing

For some STDs, all the doctor or nurse will need is for you to urinate (pee) in a cup. They can tell a lot by looking for certain organisms in your urine (pee). Some STDs may be diagnosed by swabbing (or taking a cotton swab or wooden spatula) and taking a sample of vaginal secretions and looking at it under a microscope. Other STDs, like herpes, are diagnosed by culturing the fluid inside the little sores or blisters. And sometimes a blood sample will be taken for tests. Ask what kind of test you will have.

If you feel nervous about getting checked for STDs, take a few deep breaths and try to relax. You may be shy about having doctors and nurses look at your genitals. The tests are usually quick, and it may help to remember that the nurses and doctors are there to help you, and do this kind of test all the time.

Know the Facts. Know for Sure.

• If you have had unprotected sex, you may have an STD and not know it.
  
  
• If your partner has had unprotected sex, your partner may have an STD and not know it.
  
  
• STDs like chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis are curable. While not curable, diseases like HIV, HPV, herpes and hepatitis B are treatable.
  
  
• If left untreated, STDs can lead to long-term consequences, like infertility, long-term pain or cancer.