Diagnosis of STDs

There are a number of tests for STDs. And, the only way to be sure you have an STD, is to see your health care provider for testing. Your provider may start with one or all of the following exams:

• A physical exam to look for symptoms of an STD, such as swollen lymph nodes and growths or irritations inside the throat or anus or in the genital area.

• A visual exam to inspect your skin for rashes, growths or sores, especially the area around the genitals.

• A pelvic exam to look at the inside of your vagina (birth canal) and cervix (opening to the uterus, or womb) and to feel your internal organs for any inflammation or growths on the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes (tubes that carry eggs from the ovaries to the uterus).

Tests may be ordered to confirm the presence of bacteria or viruses that cause STDs. Your provider will take a sample of fluid or tissue from the vaginal, anal or genital area and send it to a lab for analysis. Blood tests are also done for some STDs. While some women may have some discomfort with taking samples, most women find the process painless and quick. Results from the lab are most often received within a week or less.