STD Testing Specialist
Capital Women's Care
OBGYNs & Gynecologists located in Frederick, MD & Mount Airy, MD
When a woman contracts a sexually transmitted disease, prompt treatment is essential to alleviate symptoms and prevent lasting damage. Capital Women's Care offers STD testing and diagnosis for women experiencing worrisome symptoms or are otherwise concerned that they may have an infection. These services are available to women in Frederick, Mount Airy & Urbana, Maryland.
STD Testing Q & A
What’s an STD?
An STD is a virus or bacterial infection transmitted through sexual contact. To get an STD, patients must typically come into contact with infected bodily fluids from another person, such as semen or blood. The symptoms of STDs vary but may include:
- Rashes or sores, especially on the genitals
- Fever
- Pain in the pelvis
- Pain during sex
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Vaginal bleeding
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Pain during urination
Who is most likely to get an STD?
Anyone who has unprotected sexual contact can get an STD. However, STDs are more likely to occur among people who are young, abuse drugs, or have sex with multiple partners. In some cases, STDs may also pass from mother to child or because of contact with a dirty needle.
What happens during STD testing?
During STD testing, Capital Women's Care orders various tests to determine whether the patient has contracted a sexually-transmitted infection. Depending on the patient’s symptoms, the doctor may collect fluid or urine samples for analysis. The doctor may also order a blood test. Once the patient receives the results of these tests, she can begin any necessary treatment.
How are STDs treated?
STDs caused by bacteria usually respond to antibiotics. If the STD is caused by a virus, a cure may not be possible. However, certain medications may control the symptoms of the infection.
Patients diagnosed with an STD should always inform their sexual partners of the diagnosis. In some cases, the partner may also require treatment for the infection.
What are the possible complications?
If patients with STDs don’t receive prompt treatment, the infection can cause serious symptoms. Some STDs also raise the risk of cancer, heart disease, and infertility. Because of the risk of serious complications, patients at risk for STDs should request testing as soon as possible.
When is STD testing necessary?
STD testing is necessary for anyone who is experiencing the symptoms of an STD after having unprotected sexual contact. Patients should also ask for STD testing if a previous sexual partner has been diagnosed with an infection.
Billing & Insurance
We participate with most local and many national insurance plans. However it is your responsibility to understand whether your insurance has limits on the doctors you can see, or the services you can receive. If you provide complete and accurate information about your insurance, we will submit claims to your insurance carrier and receive payments for services. Depending on your insurance coverage, you may be responsible for co-payments, co-insurance, or other deductible amounts. Not all providers participate with all insurance plans. We do not accept Medicaid. Don't hesitate to call if you have questions.