How to Ask a Doctor for an STD Test

Millions of new cases of sexually transmitted diseases (STD) are diagnosed every year. STD's often pose no symptoms and many people go on with their lives without any treatment. Left untreated an STD could cause a range of complications, including infertility. Caught early many are easily treated. Use these easy steps to ask your doctor for an STD test.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Ask for an STD screening. The doctor only performs STD testing when you ask for it. The ideal time would be at your regularly scheduled pap smear or an annual exam.

2. Find out about which STD test you need. Some STDs have no test available or can only be tested in a certain gender. Share your sexual history with your doctor so he can determine which tests are needed.

3. Tell the doctor about any signs or symptoms you're experiencing. Allow her the chance to do a full exam on your body. Point out warts, blisters, discharge from the genitals and other obvious signs of infection.

4. Count the costs associated with testing. Some STD tests are very expensive and insurance may not cover the cost. Make sure the doctor only orders the tests that are pre-approved by your insurance carrier. There are clinics that offer free testing for STDs, if finances are an issue.

5. Discuss the information sharing policy and procedures. Teenagers may require parental permission to receive testing. Others may want to confirm that their information is kept confidential and find out who has access to their results.

6. Find out how long it might take to receive results. Speak to the doctor about the methods used to reveal the results. Many doctor's offices have procedures in place to address the notification process. Ask in advance to be sure you're comfortable with the procedure.

7. Make a follow up appointment. When STD results come back positive schedule an appointment as soon as possible to receive treatment. Consult with the physician about the possibility of additional tests that may be needed.

Tips & Warnings

• Speak to your doctor about available vaccines that may prevent certain STDs.
• Woman who have sex with multiple partners and men who have sex with other men may need to be tested more frequently.
• The only way to avoid getting an STD is to abstain from having sex.
• Always use condoms when having sex. Follow the directions to use them correctly in order to reduce the risk of STDs.

Resources

• Learn how to protect yourself from an STD at Family Doctor.

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