Teenage STD Testing: When, Where, and How
Introduction
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a major concern in the United States, and they are becoming more common among teenagers. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people between the ages of 15 and 24 account for half of all new STD infections, despite making up only a quarter of the sexually active population. This is why teenagers need to get tested for STDs regularly. In this article, we'll cover the when, where, and how of teenage STD testing.
When to get tested for STDs
There are several situations in which teenagers should get tested for STDs. These include:
Before having sex with a new partner
After having unprotected sex
If you or your partner have symptoms of an STD
If you or your partner have had sex with someone else
As part of routine healthcare
According to Dr. Cindi Leive, a physician and health expert, "the best way to protect yourself and your partner is to get tested before having sex for the first time and then regularly after that, whether or not you have any symptoms."
Where to get tested for STDs
There are several places teenagers can get tested for STDs. These include:
Health clinics - Many health clinics, such as Planned Parenthood, offer STD testing. These clinics are often affordable or free for teenagers who don't have insurance.
Primary care doctor - Teenagers can also get tested for STDs by their primary care doctor. It's important to note that not all doctors offer STD testing, so it's a good idea to check beforehand.
School-based health centers - Some schools have health centers that offer STD testing. These centers are often free for students.
Public health department - Public health departments also offer STD testing. These clinics are often affordable or free for teenagers who don't have insurance.
How to get tested for STDs
There are several ways teenagers can get tested for STDs. These include:
Blood test - Some STDs, such as HIV and syphilis, can be detected through a blood test.
Urine test - Other STDs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, can be detected through a urine test.
Swab test - Some STDs, such as herpes and HPV, can be detected through a swab test of the affected area.
It's important to note that not all STDs can be detected through a test immediately after exposure. According to the CDC, it can take several weeks or even months for some STDs to show up on a test. For example, it can take up to three months for HIV to show up on a test.
Expert Advice
Dr. Leive emphasizes that "the most important thing is to talk to your healthcare provider about your individual risks and to come up with a plan that works for you." She also notes that "getting tested for STDs is a routine part of healthcare, and it's nothing to be embarrassed or ashamed about."
Dr. Lynn Barclay, CEO of the American Sexual Health Association, agrees. "Regular STD testing is an important part of maintaining your sexual health. It's important, to be honest with your healthcare provider about your sexual history and any symptoms you may be experiencing."
Industry Statistics
According to the CDC, there were over 2.5 million cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis reported in the United States in 2019. This is the highest number ever reported. In addition, young people between the ages of 15 and 24 accounted for half of all reported STD cases.