3 Types Of STD Tests For Women

Are you considering getting tested for STDs? While getting tested may be scary and nerve-wracking, it's also wise. If you're a sexually active woman, you may have been exposed to an STD, even if you don't have any symptoms. By getting tested, you can get treatment for any STDs and prevent the spread of the disease to your current or future partners. The good news is that there are various options available for discreetly getting tested. Below are three common options, along with the benefits and considerations of each testing method:

Swab at a clinic

Most women's clinics, urgent cares, and even abortion clinics offer free or low-cost STD testing through a vaginal swab. A vaginal swab is likely to detect any current infections of STDs like gonorrhea, herpes, HPV, and more. That's especially true if you have an active, open sore or other signs of infection. A genital swab at an abortion clinic or other health clinic can be a low-cost, discreet way to get tested, but it may not fully identify all possible infections.

At-home urine test

If you want maximum discretion, you may want to consider an at-home test. These tests can often be ordered online. You urinate into a small container, seal it, and send it back to a lab. The lab then contacts you later with the results. These tests will usually pick up current, active infections of things like gonorrhea and HPV. However, there are many things it will not detect. For example, an at-home test won't identify HIV or past inactive herpes infections. At-home tests also are not usually covered by insurance. An at-home test can protect your privacy, but it may not be the best way to detect every possible STD.

Blood test

If you want a full test that will detect every possible STD, consider a blood test at your doctor or a clinic. Many abortion clinics and women's clinics offer blood tests that your insurance may cover. A blood test is the best way to detect every possible STD fully. A blood test will detect gonorrhea, herpes, HIV, HPV, and more. It can even detect past infections of HPV and herpes, even if you never experienced symptoms. 

Ready to protect your health and get an STD test? Contact an STD testing clinic in your area today. They can help you schedule a discreet appointment that protects your health and privacy. If you do have an STD, the clinic can prescribe treatment options. Set your appointment today.