Diagnosing Sexually Transmitted Infections

Most STDs cannot be diagnosed simply by the presence of symptoms. Tests are needed to determine if you have an STD and what STD you might have.

These days, most STDs can be diagnosed using a urine or blood test. In addition, swabs may be taken of sores to check for viruses. Urethral and vaginal swabs can also be used to diagnose STDs.

You can get tested for STD at your regular doctor’s office or at a clinic. Although home testing kits are available, they may not always be reliable. Use them with caution, and check to see if the FDA has approved them.

Internet STD testing is also an option. Like home kits, the quality of such testing varies.

It’s important to know that a Pap smear is not an STD test. A Pap smear checks for the presence of precancerous cells on the cervix. It may also be combined with an HPV test for some women. However, a negative Pap smear does not mean you don’t have other STDs. You must be tested for each STD separately.