STD Testing at PhysicianOne Urgent Care

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are passed from one person to another, typically through sexual contact. Also known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), STDs may be passed during sexual activity involving contact with the genital area, mouth, or other intimate parts of the body.

STDs are extremely common, with as many as 20 million new cases occurring annually in the United States. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) estimates that one in every five people in the U.S. has an STD. While wearing a condom during sex reduces the risk of transmission, some STDs are transmitted through simple skin-to-skin contact.

PhysicianOne Urgent Care offers walk-in testing and treatment for a wide range of common STDs to help patients achieve their best sexual health and slow the spread of disease. Our urgent care centers can provide screening and care for:

  • Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV)
  • Chlamydia
  • Gonorrhea
  • Hepatitis B
  • Hepatitis C
  • Herpes
  • Syphilis

A single unprotected sexual encounter could result in an STD, so it’s important to be tested promptly. Receive testing within one to two weeks after an unprotected encounter—and then again 90 days later—to rule out an infection.

Typically, a medical professional who is screening for STDs will perform a brief physical exam to check for physicals signs of infection. This may include a pelvic exam for female patients. This professional may also draw blood or collect urine for STD testing. In some instances, a clinician may use a sterile cotton swab to collect a sample from the affected area for further testing.

Common STD Signs & Symptoms

Visit a reputable medical provider like PhysicianOne Urgent Care as soon as possible if any of the following STD symptoms occur:

  • Unusual discharge from the vagina
  • Pain or a burning sensation while urinating
  • Bleeding between menstrual periods
  • Unusually heavy periods
  • Painful sex
  • Testicular pain or swelling
  • Sores, blisters, rashes, or warts on the genitals
  • Rectal pain or discharge
  • Burning, itching, or discomfort in the genital area
  • Sore, swollen lymph nodes around the groin area
  • Lower abdominal pain

It’s also recommended to receive regular STD testing if you are sexually active, especially if you have multiple partners, or if you are pregnant. Infections such as syphilis, chlamydia, or gonorrhea could be transmitted to your baby or otherwise jeopardize your pregnancy and should be addressed immediately.

It’s important to remember that STDs do not always result in noticeable symptoms. In fact, many diseases are known to remain asymptomatic for several days, weeks, or even years after infection. For this reason, anyone who is sexually active should consider getting tested for STDs on a regular basis to rule out an asymptomatic infection.

Virtually all STDs can be treated with medications, and most are curable. Other diseases, including HIV and HPV infections, are manageable with proper diagnosis and timely treatment.

When to Seek Treatment for an STD

STDs typically do not constitute a life-threatening emergency, but they should never be ignored. Seek treatment at PhysicianOne Urgent Care or with your primary care provider in a timely manner to improve your sexual health, avoid spreading infections to others, and prevent potentially serious complications. If left untreated, severe cases of sexually transmitted infections may lead to:

  • Infertility
  • Pregnancy complications
  • Arthritis
  • Eye inflammation
  • Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
  • Certain cancers

Some STDs are readily treatable with common antibiotics. Others are manageable with antiviral drugs and other medications. Keep in mind that STDs often cause no noticeable symptoms. Nevertheless, they should never be overlooked, and an infected person should refrain from having unprotected sex with any additional partners. Prior partners should be notified if you are newly diagnosed with an STD. Before beginning a sexual relationship, it’s important for both partners to receive STD testing.

Trust PhysicianOne Urgent Care for STD Testing & Treatment

PhysicianOne Urgent Care’s fully equipped locations throughout Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York offer walk-in STD testing and treatment services 365 days per year. Our urgent care centers cater to patients of all ages and are open during extended hours. Plus, we offer optional appointment scheduling if you’d rather plan ahead, as well as 24/7 Virtual Visits that will allow you to consult “face-to-face” with a medical professional any time of day or night.

For a safe space to discuss STD symptoms, receive testing, and find treatment, turn to PhysicianOne Urgent Care. We accept many health insurance plans and offer reduced rates to self-pay patients.

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This was the fastest, easiest, and best doctor's visit. The provider was extremely kind and helpful. I explained my symptoms, the provider asked a few followup questions, and then she issued a script. I will absolutely be using this service again and would recommend to anyone.
Patient
Connecticut
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