STD Testing Provided Seven Days Per Week in Hamden, CT
Did you know there are around 20 million new cases of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the United States every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)? It’s true! STDs are incredibly common and, in the large majority of cases, can be treated and cured with a simple round of antibiotics or antiviral drugs. At PhysicianOne Urgent Care in Hamden, Connecticut, we want our patients to feel empowered to take control of their sexual health, which is why we offer prompt STD testing and treatment.
Symptoms of STDs
Surprisingly, one of the most common STD symptoms is no symptoms at all. Some sexually transmitted infections can take several days, weeks, or even years to produce obvious signs, which underscores the importance of regular STD testing if you’re sexually active.
When STDs do cause symptoms, they may include one or more of the following:
- Painful urination
- Unusual discharge
- Itchiness around the genital area
- Sores, rashes, lumps, blisters, or warts around the genital area
STD Symptoms in Women
Possible STD symptoms that are specific to women include:
- Lower abdominal pain
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Bleeding in between periods or unusually heavy periods
STD Symptoms in Men
For men, STD symptoms may involve:
- Testicular pain
- Swollen testicles
- Unusual discharge from the penis
STD Testing
It’s always a good idea to receive regular STD testing if you’re sexually active, even if you don’t have obvious symptoms. At PhysicianOne Urgent Care, our professionals can diagnose several types of STDs, including:
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
- Gonorrhea
- Chlamydia
- Syphilis
- Human papilloma virus (HPV)
- Hepatitis B and C
- Herpes
We utilize a variety of reliable STD testing methods, including urine tests, blood tests, and swab tests (we use a sterilized cotton swab to collect samples from affected tissue). The practitioner you see will also perform a brief physical exam as well as a pelvic exam for women.
STD Prevention
There are several ways you can help lower your risk of STDs and protect your sexual health:
- Get vaccinated against HPV, hepatitis A, and hepatitis B.
- Stay with one, uninfected partner.
- Use condoms correctly.
- Don’t use drugs or drink alcohol in excess.
- Receive routine STD testing and encourage your partner to do the same.
What Are the Risks of Leaving STDs Untreated?
Untreated STDs may lead to a wide range of complications, including:
- Infertility
- Miscarriage or premature birth in pregnant women
- Pelvic inflammatory disease in women
- Certain cancers
- Bladder problems
- Blindness
- Dementia
- Loss of motor skills
Should Both Partners Get Tested for STDs?
Yes! It’s important for both partners in a new relationship to receive STD testing before engaging in sexual activity and to continue to receive tests on a regular basis, even if noticeable STD symptoms aren’t present.
STD Testing & Treatment at PhysicianOne Urgent Care in Hamden, CT
Along with testing for STDs, PhysicianOne Urgent Care’s Hamden location can also provide STD treatment. Our caring team of medical professionals will be able to prescribe the correct treatment protocol for your needs, whether that’s antibiotics, antiviral drugs, or another medication. If you receive a diagnosis of an STD that may require ongoing treatment and medication, we can send your records to your primary care provider or refer you to a local physician for more specialized healthcare services.
Why Choose Us?
Visit PhysicianOne Urgent Care today if you need STD testing that’s fast and convenient. Our urgent care facility in Hamden is open during extended hours every day, including weekends and holidays. We’re here to serve you 365 days per year and have an on-site clinical lab that allows us to provide quick results. We’ll have you in, out, and on your way home with a treatment plan in no time at all.
Furthermore, PhysicianOne Urgent Care is also pleased to offer 24/7 Virtual Visits that allow patients to consult with us any time of day or night from the comfort of home. We’ve got you covered, even if you can’t make it into our urgent care center. Contact us today to learn more information about our services.
