Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are extremely common, affecting millions of Americans every year. But just knowing they happen to lots of people doesn’t make it any less nerve-racking when you’re dealing with one yourself — or think you might be.
The good news: STDs respond very well to medical treatment. The key is seeking treatment early to prevent complications and avoid spreading the infection to others.
At the Center for Urogynecology and Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery, OB/GYN Rafael J. Perez, MD, FACOG, and our team use the most advanced techniques to diagnose and treat STDs, helping every patient feel more confident, more relaxed, and more in control of their own health.
Here, learn the basics about STDs and how we can help you treat your infection and improve your overall wellness.
When it comes to STDs, it’s easy to assume that if you don’t have any symptoms, you’re not infected. But STD symptoms can be very subtle, especially in their early stages.
That’s why the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other health agencies recommend regular STD testing for anyone who is or has been sexually active.
That said, knowing the symptoms associated with STDs is still important to help you decide if you need to be tested outside of the times in the recommended guidelines. Some of the most common symptoms to watch for include:
Symptoms can vary based on the type of infection, as well, and they’re not limited to the genitals: You can have symptoms that affect your lips, throat, or anus, too.
Because of all these factors, you shouldn’t rely on your own observation to decide if you’re infected. A medical diagnosis is the only way to know for sure.
STDs may start subtly, but without treatment, they can worsen over time, leading to serious and even life-threatening complications. Early diagnosis is critical for preventing those complications and for protecting your health now and in the future.
And of course, it’s also important for protecting your partner.
With prompt testing, Dr. Perez can determine what type of infection you have, as well as rule out other issues that could cause similar symptoms. We can treat most STDs quickly and effectively, and can manage even infections that have no cure when caught early.
Testing is simple and available right in our office for your convenience. Depending on your symptoms and other factors, Dr. Perez may recommend a urine sample, blood sample, or a sample of vaginal discharge to help diagnose your infection.
For human papillomavirus (HPV), we perform a test similar to a Pap smear, obtaining a sample of cervical cells for lab analysis.
If testing determines you do have an STD, Dr. Perez tailors treatment to your specific infection. For common bacterial infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea, we use antibiotics, while viral infections like herpes require antiviral medications to reduce symptoms and outbreaks.
In addition to providing you with the most appropriate and effective treatment, Dr. Perez offers guidance to prevent infections in the future. That typically includes a review of safe sex habits that can help you and your partner stay healthy.
He’ll also recommend regular testing using established medical guidelines and your personal risk factors. For some women, HPV vaccination may decrease the risk of future infections and complications.
Even if you feel fine, regular STD testing is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your health now and for years to come. Making testing part of your annual exams is a good way to ensure testing doesn’t slip your mind.
You should also consider testing anytime you get a new partner or have multiple partners or if you’re pregnant.
If you’re concerned you may have been exposed to an STD or if you have any STD-related symptoms, don’t wait. Request an appointment with Dr. Perez and our team at the Center for Urogynecology and Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery in South Miami, Florida, today. Get the answers — and the care — you need for better health and peace of mind.
