STD
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections that are passed from one person to another through sexual contact. The causes of STDs are bacteria, parasites, and viruses. There are more than 20 types of STDs, including:
Most STDs affect both men and women, but in many cases the health problems they cause can be more severe for women.
If you’re sexually active, it’s important to screen for STDs so you can stay informed about your sexual health.
This panel includes tests for:
- Trichomonas, which is a curable parasitic infection.
- Hepatitis B and C, which are viral infections spread through vaginal secretions, saliva, and semen.
- HIV, that can lead to AIDS if not treated. HIV is a virus that weakens your immune system by destroying important cells that fight disease and infection. If you’re sexually active, it’s important to know your HIV status so you don’t infect others. There is no cure for HIV, but it can be controlled with treatment.
- Herpes, that can cause painful sores around the mouth or genitals. The test checks for both types of herpes: herpes type-1 most often causes oral herpes and herpes type-2 most often causes genital herpes, although herpes type-1 is responsible for an increasing proportion of genital infections. Although there is no cure for herpes, treatment can help relieve the symptoms and prevent future episodes.
- Syphilis, an infection that leads to sores, rashes, and lesions on your body. If left untreated, it can spread to the brain and nervous system (neurosyphilis) or the eyes (ocular syphilis), potentially leading to blindness. Fortunately, syphilis can be cured with treatment.
- Gonorrhea and Chlamydia, common STDs that can infect the genitals, rectum, and throat. You may or may not have any symptoms. If left untreated, these STDs can lead to serious complications like infertility and ectopic pregnancy. Gonorrhea and chlamydia may be cured in almost all cases with the right treatment.
