Tests for Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)

Medically Reviewed by Traci C. Johnson, MD on December 12, 2022
1 min read

If you or your sex partner has unprotected sex with anyone else, you are at risk for a sexually transmitted disease, or STD. Ask your doctor to test you for STDs during your annual physical, even if you have no symptoms. If you test positive, your sexual partners will need treatment. It may be embarrassing, but you must tell them they have been exposed. It can be a matter of life and death.

STDs may be detected during a physical exam; through Pap smears; and in tests of blood, urine, and genital and anal secretions.