What are Sexually Transmitted Infections?
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are infections that are passed from one person to another during sex that can be vaginal, anal, or oral. Some are local infections, meaning they are infections of only one organ, while other STIs are systemic, meaning an infection of the whole body. STIs can be common in certain groups at certain ages and may have no symptoms.
When Should I Get Tested for STIs?
Most STIs are easily treatable, and testing is a quick procedure in your doctor’s office. STIs can lead to long-term consequences if left undiagnosed or untreated. It’s important to be tested regularly if you are sexually active or have more than one partner.
The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) recommends that women under the age of 26 be tested for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea each year, or as needed following age 25. ACOG also recommends that every woman be offered annual testing for HIV. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that testing for STIs be done on request. The CDC also recommends testing be tailored to individuals based on age and local statistics:
- Chlamydia/Gonorrhea, Trichomonas, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and
- HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C, syphilis, and Herpes (HSV).
Testing for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Trichomonas, and HPV are done with a pelvic exam in-office. Testing for HIV, Hepatitis B and C, syphilis, and HSV is done through a blood test.
Schedule an Appointment
Treatment and, in many cases, cures, are available for the above infections. General information can be found online at https://www.cdc.gov/std/default.htm To learn more about STIs and how to prevent them, as well as undergo comprehensive tests, schedule an appointment with our gynecologists at our New York City office. To schedule an appointment, we invite you to call or fill out our online form.
