Women sexual health tests

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. If left untreated, sexually transmitted infections STIs , often called sexually transmitted diseases STDs , can cause severe health problems. These include:. Many STIs have no symptoms or very nonspecific symptoms, which can make them hard to notice. The stigma around STIs also discourages some people from getting tested.

Most people think they would know if they had a sexually transmitted infection STI. The truth is many of STIs have no signs or symptoms in the majority of people infected. Or they have mild signs that can be easily overlooked. Lots of people are confused about getting tested for STIs. For example, you may think your annual medical check-up will include tests for STIs, especially if your healthcare provider knows you are sexually active. The fact is that some providers might test for some infections when you come in for a regular check-up, while others do not test for any STI unless you ask them to.

Screening is easily done during routine Pap tests and is still considered best practice by the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit. Almost all studies show that women prefer self-collection of urine samples to a pelvic exam. Get collection kits from your local Public Health Laboratory.

If you are sexually active, getting tested for STDs is one of the most important things you can do to protect your health. Make sure you have an open and honest conversation about your sexual history and STD testing with your doctor and ask whether you should be tested for STDs. If you are not comfortable talking with your regular health care provider about STDs, there are many clinics that provide confidential and free or low-cost testing. Below is a brief overview of STD testing recommendations. STD screening information for healthcare providers can be found here.