Can I get tested and treated for an STD at an Urgent Care?

Couple get a STD testing at urgent care

Can I get tested and treated for an STD at an Urgent Care?

Couple get a STD testing at urgent care

Key Points:

  • Urgent care clinics offer STD testing and treatment at lower costs compared to hospitals with extended hours that fit your schedule.
  • DOC-AID Urgent Care prioritizes privacy and comfort while providing confidential STD testing and options
  • Treatment for suspected STDs can begin once confirmatory testing has been completed.

Sexual health is a crucial part of your overall well-being, covering topics such as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Although discussing these issues can sometimes feel uncomfortable, it is important to address them for your health and peace of mind. At DOC-AID Urgent Care, we prioritize your privacy and comfort by offering confidential STD testing and treatment options that are tailored to your needs. Whether you seek answers, reassurance, or treatment, our compassionate team is here to support you every step.

Read on to discover how urgent care can support your sexual health needs and why it might be the right choice for you.

What are STDs?

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), also known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are extremely common, with millions of new cases reported each year in the United States. In 2023, the CDC reported over 2.4 million cases of STIs in the country.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) don’t always present noticeable symptoms; sometimes, they may only cause mild ones. This means you could have an infection without being aware of it. Therefore, if you are sexually active, getting tested regularly is crucial. Consistent STD testing is one of the best ways to protect your health and take care of yourself.

How do STDs spread?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are primarily transmitted from one person to another through vaginal, oral, or anal sex. Although less common, these infections can also spread through close physical contact, such as intense touching or kissing.

Even if you and your partner take precautions, regular testing is essential for maintaining sexual health. For instance, condoms are highly effective, with about a 98% success rate, in preventing STDs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, which are transmitted through bodily fluids. However, they do not provide complete protection against infections that spread through skin-to-skin contact, like herpes, genital warts, and syphilis. It’s also important to note that many STDs do not show noticeable symptoms, so you might not be aware that you have one without being tested.

Urgent care clinics offer STD testing and treatment, often at lower costs than hospitals or private practices. They typically provide flexible hours to accommodate various schedules. It is important to get tested every 3 to 12 months, depending on your level of sexual activity, to help ensure the safety of both you and your partner.

How does testing for STDs happen at Urgent Care facilities?

Seeking testing for STDs can be uncomfortable, and many people may feel hesitant to approach their primary care doctor about it. Urgent care clinics offer a discreet and private alternative, making the testing and treatment easier, faster, and more convenient.

The process begins with a basic symptom assessment. The doctor will inquire about any signs you may be experiencing, such as discomfort, unusual discharge, or sores. They may also conduct a physical examination to check for common indicators of STDs. For women, this examination could include a pelvic exam, while for men, it may involve a genital exam to look for symptoms like pimples, blisters, or other changes.

To confirm a diagnosis, the doctor will take small samples. This may involve a quick blood draw to check for infections such as HIV, syphilis, or herpes. A urine sample may also be collected to detect common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) like chlamydia and gonorrhea. In some cases, swabs may be taken from the throat, genital area, or anal area if specific testing is necessary.

Can I start treatment for an STD immediately?

A doctor may suspect a sexually transmitted disease (STD) based on a physical exam, but most cases require laboratory tests for confirmation. Samples such as blood, urine, or swabs are sent to a lab, and it usually takes a few days to receive the results. Once the results are ready, the urgent care clinic will contact you.

Why choose DOC-AID Urgent Care?

When it comes to STD testing, DOC-AID Urgent Care offers more than just convenience—we provide a care experience focused on your comfort, privacy, and health. Here’s what makes us stand out:

– Our facilities are equipped with the latest technology.

– You’ll be seen by board-certified providers who bring expertise to your care.

– We offer a convenient online check-in process.

– Our rates are competitive, and we accept most major health insurance plans, with options available for self-pay patients.

At DOC-AID, we understand the importance of prompt, professional, and discreet care, making us a trusted choice for your health needs.

Author

  • A woman in white lab coat and blue shirt

    Dr. Saenz is a native of Corpus Christi, Texas, and is board-certified in Emergency Medicine. She earned her medical degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch in 2003, where she graduated at the top of her class and became a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She completed her residency training in Emergency Medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. Before obtaining her medical degree, Dr. Saenz worked as a registered nurse for over seven years. She received her Bachelor's Degree in Nursing with Honors from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. Dr. Saenz is married and has three children. She enjoys traveling, fishing, running, and mentoring young students. In addition, she and her staff are fluent in Spanish.

    View all posts

By Dr. Monica Saenz, MD

Dr. Saenz is a native of Corpus Christi, Texas, and is board-certified in Emergency Medicine. She earned her medical degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch in 2003, where she graduated at the top of her class and became a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She completed her residency training in Emergency Medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. Before obtaining her medical degree, Dr. Saenz worked as a registered nurse for over seven years. She received her Bachelor's Degree in Nursing with Honors from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. Dr. Saenz is married and has three children. She enjoys traveling, fishing, running, and mentoring young students. In addition, she and her staff are fluent in Spanish.