STD Testing

For patients in Central Texas who are sexually active, STD testing is an important way to protect themselves from sexually transmitted diseases. Knowing about whether or not a patient has an STD is critical to helping stop the spread of these diseases. The doctors at San Marcos Family Medicine offer a comprehensive list of STD testing services in San Marcos, Texas.

STD Testing Q & A

What are STDs?

STD stands for Sexually Transmitted Disease, and this is a disease passed from one partner to the next through sexual intercourse. Some STDs can also be spread through intravenous drug use or the sharing of bodily fluids in other ways. Some common STDs include:

  • Herpes
  • Chlamydia
  • Hepatitis
  • HIV
  • Syphilis
  • Gonorrhea

Who needs STD testing?

Anyone who’s sexually active should consider STD testing. Because so many STDs cause no symptoms, getting tested is an excellent way to protect partners from transmission of an unknown STD. This applies to all forms of sexual intercourse, including unprotected oral, vaginal, or anal sex.

What symptoms show someone has an STD?

Many STDs have no symptoms, but some symptoms that may be present include:

  • Sores on the genitals
  • Discharge
  • Itching
  • Burning while urinating
  • Dark or smelly urine
  • Rashes or spots on the body
  • Bumps, blisters, warts, or lesions on the genitals
  • Unusual odors
  • White spots on pubic hair

Patients who are noticing these symptoms need to call San Marcos Family Medicine today for STD testing.

How does STD testing work?

STD testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea is a simple urine test. The other STDs involve a simple blood sample test. San Marcos Family Medicine is equipped to perform all of this testing at their facilities, with fast results to give patients the peace of mind they need.

How many people have STDs?

The CDC estimates 19 million new infections involving STDs will be reported every year, and around half will affect people ages 15-24. Because of the lack of symptoms, many cases may exist that aren’t reported. Patients who have STDs without symptoms can pass them on to their partners when they’re sexually active, which is why testing is so important, even without symptoms.

How can someone avoid an STD?

Testing is the first step in preventing STDs because those who know they have an STD can take preventive measures. Other measures to take to prevent the spread or catching of STDs include:

  • Choosing less risky sexual behaviors
  • Using condoms correctly
  • Reducing the number of sexual partners an individual has
  • Communicating with sexual partners to ensure proper protections are taken

For more information about STD testing and prevention, call or schedule an appointment online with San Marcos Family Medicine.