STDs are on the rise: What you should know
It’s time to set aside embarrassment and awkwardness and have the talk. Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)...
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Anyone who is sexually active should consider getting tested for STDs, especially those with multiple sexual partners or those who do not consistently use protection during sexual activity. It's also important for pregnant women to get tested as STDs can have serious health effects on both the mother and the baby. According to the CDC, certain groups are at higher risk and should get tested at least once a year, including men who have sex with men, and individuals with HIV.
Getting tested for STDs is crucial for several reasons. Early detection and treatment can prevent long-term health complications such as infertility, certain types of cancer, and increased risk of HIV. Additionally, many STDs can be asymptomatic, meaning they show no symptoms. Therefore, getting tested is the only sure way to know if you have an STD. Regular testing also helps to prevent the spread of STDs to others.
Urgent care and walk-in clinics offer convenient, same-day STD testing. In Santa Monica, options include Precision Clinical Labs and Carbon Health. Both facilities have received positive reviews for their services and can be booked for same-day or next-day appointments through Solv’s website and mobile app.
Your primary care provider can also conduct STD testing. If you don't have a primary care provider, Solv can help you find one in the Santa Monica area.
There are also options for free STD testing in Santa Monica. Community health centers often provide these services, especially to those who may not have insurance or the financial means to pay.
At-home testing kits are another option for STD testing. These kits can be ordered online, used in the privacy of your own home, and then sent back to a lab for results.
Santa Monica, located in Los Angeles County, has a higher prevalence of STDs compared to some nearby counties like Ventura County, but lower than others like San Diego County according to the CDC. Over the past few years, there has been a steady increase in the number of reported STD cases in Santa Monica, similar to trends seen at the state and national level.
Risk factors for STDs in Santa Monica are similar to those in other cities and include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and substance abuse. Additionally, certain demographic groups, such as young adults and men who have sex with men, are at a higher risk. Efforts to reduce these risk factors, such as education and outreach programs, are critical to reducing the prevalence of STDs in Santa Monica.
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In a doctor's office, a health clinic, or an urgent care center, you can get an STD test. If you're experiencing symptoms, it's best to visit a doctor's office, where they can also treat you or issue you a prescription. While some Santa Monica clinics and urgent care centers allow walk-in appointments, it's advisable to make an appointment ahead of time to prevent excessive waits.
Various testing are required for various STDs. Depending on the type of STD test you took, you may receive your results in two to ten days. Some outcomes may be immediately available. Your doctor may be able to diagnose an STD through a physical examination. In some cases, your doctor's office may only contact you if your test results are positive.
The cost of STD testing is governed by several factors, including where you are tested, the type of test you need, and if you have health insurance. Some Santa Monica clinics may offer free testing or testing on a sliding scale based on your income. Because of the cost, don't put off obtaining an STD test. With your doctor's office, discuss the cost and payment choices. Delaying STD treatment may have catastrophic implications.
The cost of STD testing is governed by a number of factors, including the location of the test, the type of test required, and whether or not you have health insurance. Some clinics may provide free or sliding-scale testing, depending on your income. Don't let the expense of an STD test deter you from getting one. With your doctor's office, discuss the price and payment choices. Delaying STD treatment could have catastrophic ramifications.
There are around 20 different forms of STDs, each with its own set of diagnostic tests. No single test exists that can detect all types of STDs. Your doctor can help you figure out which tests you'll need. In STD testing, a blood sample or a urine sample may be used. Your doctor may also take a swab from the inside of your cheek, your vaginal area, or another potentially infected place.
Blood tests are used to diagnose hepatitis B, hepatitis C, herpes, HIV, and syphilis. In a laboratory, a technician examines a blood sample for antibodies that the body has produced in reaction to disease. The virus's DNA can also be detected by several blood tests. Remember that if you've recently been exposed to an STD and your body hasn't yet produced antibodies, you could test negative even if you have the disease.
Many Santa Monica, CA urgent care providers offer same-day and next-day appointments, which you may book through Solv. To make healthcare more accessible to everyone, we collaborate with thousands of top-rated local providers. Our physician partners understand that waiting days, if not weeks, for an appointment isn't always the best option, and they share our commitment to simple, accessible health care.
To find a healthcare practitioner in your area, simply enter your location and search for "STD test" on our website. A list of providers and available appointments can be found on the following page. Choose the most convenient time and location for you. Make it clear that you've come for STD testing.
If you have a specific STD, inform your doctor so that the necessary test can be scheduled. Otherwise, they'll help you figure out which tests you'll need. The nurse or doctor simply needs a few minutes to get a blood sample, a urine sample, or a swab from the probable infection site.
Although there are several STD home tests available, not all of them are accurate. The accuracy of any STD test is determined by the quality of the sample taken. For home STD kits, a blood sample, a urine sample, or both are frequently required. Because doctors and nurses have more experience collecting samples, traditional in-office STD testing is the most accurate.
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