Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) Testing in NYC (Midtown & UES)

Sexually transmitted diseases, commonly referred to as STDs, are conditions that pass from one person to another through sexual contact. You can get exposed to STD disease by having unprotected anal, vaginal, or oral sex with someone already suffering from this condition. However, this does not necessarily mean that sex is the only way STDs can be transmitted. Infections may spread through sharing breastfeeding and needles.

• Burning or pain during urination
• Abnormal/blood vaginal discharge
• Abdominal pain
• Itching
• Fever
• Swollen glands
• Warts
• Sores

You can contract an STD without developing any symptoms. But certain diseases cause apparent signs. Signs of this health condition can vary depending on the type of infection. Common STD symptoms in men include:

• Pain during urination
• Abnormal penile discharge
• Inflammation of the testicles or prostate
• Fever
• Sores
• Other symptoms or can be asymptomatic

STDs are widespread, and while some diseases have symptoms to alert the person of a possible infection, people are often asymptomatic and unaware of their potential to transmit these infections.

As was already mentioned, many different STD types can be transmitted sexually, and many can be asymptomatic. Although, you should not wait until the symptoms appear before visiting a doctor. We recommend seeking medical advice if you think you have had exposure to an STD or had sex with a partner who has or may have an STD. We describe the most common sexually transmitted diseases and their symptoms below.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection that can affect the anus as well as the genitals. Symptoms are often not present, but they include vaginal or penile discharge, pain with intercourse, painful urination, or rectal bleeding (if it involves the rectum).

STD testing includes a simple swab depending on the area affected, including the penile meatus (the opening where urine exits), anus/rectum, and the cervix. Fortunately, Chlamydia is curable with antibiotics.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is another sexually transmitted disease that is also primarily asymptomatic. When symptoms are present, they tend to be vaginal or penile discharge. Pain with intercourse can be present, as well as bleeding and painful urination.

Gonorrhea, similar to Chlamydia, can also be tested using a simple swab depending on the area affected. You can also treat this with antibiotics.

Syphilis

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease that can present in many ways. There are different stages of syphilis, and each may present with various symptoms ranging from genital ulcers that are painless to rashes on the body and palms and soles of the feet. If left untreated, serious complications can occur. As such, testing for infection with syphilis is critical. Testing includes taking a blood sample. In some cases, testing the fluid from the sores can be diagnostic.

Genital Herpes

Herpes is transmitted sexually, and some people infected with this do not have any symptoms at all. Yet, it can spread despite no symptoms. For some, a painful blister that can turn into an ulcer develops. NYC STD testing for herpes includes blood testing and collecting a sample from the sore with a swab.

Hepatitis

Hepatitis B is a virus that can be transmitted from an infected mother to her neonate during delivery. It is also transmitted sexually through blood and bodily fluids, like semen and blood-to-blood contact. Symptoms can vary from rashes, yellowing of the skin, dark urine, fatigue, or none at all. Unrecognized hepatitis infection can lead to severe complications, including cirrhosis and liver cancer.

Testing for Hepatitis B and C includes a blood test. A physician should evaluate your symptoms for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan to be formulated that is individualized to you. You can also discuss risks factors with your doctor to have a better understanding.

HIV

HIV is a virus that can also be transmitted through bodily fluids and blood and passed on from the mother to her newborn child. Symptoms can be present, be non-specific, or not present at all. Testing includes a blood test. Although there are now improved medications to combat HIV, there still isn’t a cure, making prevention the most critical aspect in avoiding infection.

Any sexually active individual has a risk of getting exposed to STDs. The most common risk factors are:

• Having sex with multiple partners. The more sexual partners you have, the greater your risk.
• Having unprotected sex. Anal or vaginal penetration by an infected partner who does not wear a condom increases your risk of sexual infections. Oral sex is considered less risky, but it also carries a certain degree of risk.
• Having a history of STDs. If you have ever had this health condition, you are at a greater risk of getting infected again.
• Injecting drugs. Needle sharing spreads various severe infections, including HIV, hepatitis B, and C.
• Being young. People between the age of 15 and 24 tend to encounter STDs more than older people.

Keep in mind that certain sexual infections can be passed from an infected mother to the child during pregnancy or delivery. These sexually transmitted diseases are gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and syphilis. All pregnant women should undergo STD lab testing for the disorders mentioned above.

Several ways can decrease your risk of sexual infections. The most effective STD prevention tips include:

• Have sexual contact only with one uninfected partner
• Test your new partner. Avoid having sexual contact with a partner who has not undergone STD testing.
• Get vaccinated. You can prevent certain types of sexual infections by getting vaccinated before sexual exposure.
• Use condoms and dental dams correctly and regularly. Do not forget to use a dental dam or a latex condom for each sexual act.
• Do not use drugs and drink alcohol excessively. Drugs and alcohol consumption increases your risk of sexual infections dramatically.

STD testing cost depends on where you go, the tests you need, your income, and whether you have health insurance. Due to the Affordable Care Act, a lot of insurance plans cover STD testing. Therefore, if you have health insurance, you can be tested for free or at a reduced price.