The topic of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can be uncomfortable. Still, since you’re not always in control of your own exposure, it’s an essential part of your routine sexual health and gynecologic care.
Many STDs can be present and active without obvious symptoms, so STD testing isn’t always best left until you have concerns about the signs. It’s a proactive step that provides comfort and peace of mind.
Gynecologist John A. Whitfield, MD, and his staff in Fort Worth, Texas, understand it’s a private and personal concern, and we treat your care with the compassion and respect you deserve. Let’s take a look at the facts about STD testing and prevention.
STDs (also referred to as sexually transmitted infections or STIs) are common and of varying levels of health risk and severity. Many can be managed and treated in their early stages, and routine testing helps us catch them promptly.
Early detection protects your long-term health and well-being. When treated promptly, you can avoid complications of untreated infections, problems such as:
You may also become more susceptible to acquiring or transmitting additional infections.
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common infection with a wide range of strains. HPV causes warts, and some strains can lead to cell changes in the cervix. Without treatment, these changes could eventually become cancerous.
Fortunately, only a few strains of HPV can cause these changes, and many infections clear naturally. However, since HPV is one of the most common STIs, it pays to stay on top of detection and prevention.
Talk to Dr. Whitfield about the right schedule for Pap testing or HPV screening for your circumstances. Vaccination to guard against HPV may also be an option for younger women.
The right schedule for STD testing depends on your individual factors, requiring a balance of conditions and risks. Your personalized STD testing schedule takes into account factors like:
Don’t wait for symptoms to develop before seeking screening or tests. These can catch STDs before symptoms are detectable.
STD prevention works best when you take a multilayered approach. Routine screening is a great place to start. Other layers you can add to your prevention efforts include:
Testing for STDs isn’t about stigma, but about proactive care for your health. Contact John A. Whitfield, MD, at 817-927-2229 to schedule your next STD screening today.
