For many women, an annual Pap smear or the Well Woman exam may be the only time they discuss their sexual health with a medical professional. Gynecologists are doctors who specialize in women’s reproductive health, including sexually transmitted diseases.
Do gynecologists test for STDs when it’s time for your annual pelvic exam? The answer is yes. If your gynecologist does not suggest STD testing, feel empowered to discuss STD testing and ask for a test if it makes sense for your situation.
Which STDs are tested during a Pap smear?
A smear or pap smear is a medical test that detects the presence of precancerous cells on the cervix as a way to prevent cervical cancer. The main purpose is not to screen for sexually transmitted diseases, but the human papillomavirus (HPV) can be detected during a Pap smear.
A separate testing method is required to screen for sexually transmitted diseases.
Below are the STDs you can screen for during your annual visit:
- Herpes
- Syphilis
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Hepatitis
- Trichomoniasis
- HIV
Will I know if I have an STD during an annual appointment with the gynecologist?
Unless you are actively showing symptoms or exhibiting genital warts to swearyour gynecologist cannot determine whether you have an STD during your visit.
You’ll have to await receipt of your test results to find out if you have an active STD infection.
Can gynecologists provide treatment for STDs?
Yes. Gynecologists are highly trained and specialized in everything related to female reproductive health, including sexually transmitted diseases. If you test positive for an STD, they are equipped to treat you or refer you to the appropriate resource to ensure you get the treatment you need.
Other ways to screen for sexually transmitted diseases
Fortunately, there are many options for STD testing. Choosing the best option for you is the most important thing. Let’s discuss the variety of options for STD testing.
- Home testing
These tests are usually ordered online or by telephone and then delivered to your home or collected from a pharmacy. This option is attractive to people who are nervous about going to a facility for STD testing, although the accuracy of these tests is often questioned. - Primary care physician
STD testing can be done by your doctor during an office visit. You must request the specific STD test you need and make an appointment to be tested. - First aid
A visit to the ER because STD testing is a viable option for people who have privacy concerns or are actively showing symptoms and want quick results. - Online options
Online options are popular when the individual’s privacy and test accuracy are priorities. Tests are chosen and ordered online, and an appointment is made, often the same day, at the nearest testing facility.
Buy and schedule STD tests online with Priority STD Tests
For women who are sexually active and have reached puberty, maintaining a regularly scheduled OB/GYN appointment is critical to your reproductive health, especially for preventing cervical cancer.
However, if you don’t want to wait to make an appointment with your gynecologist for an STD screening, Priority for STD testing is an excellent option to receive the same quality care, but at a fraction of the cost and a fraction of the time.