03/04/2025
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are common, yet many people remain unaware of their infection because they may lack symptoms. Regular STD screenings are essential for maintaining sexual health and preventing complications. Let’s review some essential STD screenings, who should get tested and why testing is crucial for overall well-being.
Why STD screenings are important
STDs can lead to severe health issues if left untreated, including infertility, chronic pain and an increased risk of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Early detection through routine screenings allows for timely treatment and reduces the risk of spreading infections to others. Many STDs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, can be asymptomatic, making regular testing critical, even for those without symptoms.
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Essential STD screenings
Several STDs require routine screenings based on age, sexual activity and risk factors:
Chlamydia and Gonorrhea
Who should get tested?
- Sexually active individuals under 25 years old, particularly women.
- Those with new or multiple sexual partners.
- Individuals with a history of STDs.
Why?
- These bacterial infections can cause serious reproductive health issues if untreated.
- Pregnant women should be tested to prevent complications during childbirth.
HIV
Who should get tested?
- Everyone aged 13-64 should get tested at least once.
- Those with multiple sexual partners, intravenous drug users and men who have sex with men (MSM) should test more frequently.
Why?
- Early detection allows for effective treatment and reduces the risk of transmission.
Syphilis
Who should get tested?
- Pregnant women.
- Individuals at high risk, including those with multiple sexual partners.
- MSM
Why?
- Syphilis can cause severe complications, including neurological issues and birth defects.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
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Who should get tested?
- Women aged 21-65 should undergo routine Pap smears to check for cervical changes caused by HPV.
- HPV testing is recommended for women over 30 in combination with a Pap smear.
Why?
- HPV is the leading cause of cervical cancer. Early detection can prevent progression.
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Hepatitis B and C
Who should get tested?
- People born between 1945 and 1965.
- Those with a history of intravenous drug use or unprotected sex.
- Pregnant women.
Why?
- Chronic hepatitis can lead to liver disease and cancer.
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Genital Herpes
Who should get tested?
- Individuals with symptoms such as painful sores or blisters in the genital area.
- Those with a sexual partner who has been diagnosed with herpes.
- Pregnant women with a history of herpes to prevent neonatal transmission.
Why?
- While herpes is a lifelong viral infection, early diagnosis can help manage symptoms and reduce transmission risk.
- Antiviral medications can help control outbreaks and decrease the likelihood of spreading the virus.
How often should you get tested?
Testing frequency depends on individual risk factors:
- Annually for those with multiple partners or high-risk behaviors.
- Every 3-6 months for individuals at higher risk, such as MSM.
- During pregnancy to prevent transmission to newborns.
- At least once in a lifetime for HIV and hepatitis C for those with no known risks.
Where to get tested
STD screenings are available at:
- Primary care providers
- Planned Parenthood and other sexual health clinics
- Local health departments
- At-home testing kits (for certain STDs)
The bottom line: Regular STD screenings are a crucial part of maintaining sexual health. Knowing when and why to get tested can prevent complications and ensure prompt treatment. If you are sexually active, speak with your healthcare provider about which screenings are right for you and how often you should get tested.