Have you been screened for STI's, or Sexually Transmitted Infections? Surprisingly, most Americans do not prioritize this important health testing. Plus, many health care providers do not routinely offer testing for STI's of any kind; so, patients must ask them about it, says the American Sexual Health Association.
How often should you be screened for STIs?
The short answer is that everyone from ages 13 to 65 should receive a baseline screening for HIV, or the Human Immunodeficiency Virus, states the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). STIs, including HIV, often show no symptoms but can cause serious health issues over time. Also, says the CDC, routine testing, treatment, and follow-up limits transmission of disease from sexual partner to partner. So, all adults should ask their doctors for testing once a year. In fact, they should insist upon it.
Who is at risk for an STI?
Potentially anyone is at risk. However, some populations definitely are more prone to infection. They include:
Transmission of STIs is easier than most people realize. Oral, anal, or vaginal sex can spread the microbes or insect vectors responsible for these often dangerous and hard to treat diseases. While many people believe they cannot ever have a Sexually Transmitted Infection, WebMD says the vast majority of Americans actually have had an active form some kind of STI.
What do tests look for?
Screening tests look for:
Tests are simple, utilizing a urine sample, blood draw, or swab of oral or genital tissues.
Don't ignore the obvious or not so obvious
STIs can impact your health and interpersonal relationships. So, be sure you know where you stand. Women, talk to your OB/GYN about testing, and men, do the same with your primary care physician. It's what you do not know that can truly harm you and your loved ones.
Dr Zandomeni delivered my twins two years ago. I was so scared my whole pregnancy thinking I could miscarry at anytime due to being multiples and she always made me feel better. She gave me peace of mind and made sure I always felt very comfortable with everything that had to do with my pregnancy. Every time I had a scared she would make sure my pregnancy was still going good and would talk to me with such a sweet voice that would really calm me down! I would highly recommend her
...Dr. Zandomeni is the absolute best! She delivered my baby almost 7 years and I have not gone anywhere else for all my women needs. She truly cares about her patients. The office is so clean and beautiful.
Dr.Z just delivered my second baby via induction. I was terrified the whole time and she made me feel so at ease. My delivery was fast and painless, I am so grateful she was my delivery doctor. Appt wait times aren’t excessive and she follows up with you which I feel so many drs don’t these days. You can definitely tell this is her passion. I highly recommend working with dr Zandomeni and can’t recommend her enough.
...Crossroads Women's Health
1307 Ridge Rd., Suite 1106
Rockwall, TX 75087, US