Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are one of the most common health problems, affecting up to 50% of American adults at one time or another. At AIH Medical and Psychiatric Services in Waldorf, Maryland, Deborah Koroma, FNP-C, and the team provide testing and treatment for common STDs, including gonorrhea, chlamydia, and human papillomavirus (HPV). Routine STD screening can provide peace of mind and protect your and your partner’s health. Call AIH Medical and Psychiatric Services to schedule STD treatment, or book your appointment online today.
Yes. STI and STD refer to the same thing –– infections spread through oral, vaginal, or anal intercourse.
There are several types of STDs. Many present mild side effects and are treatable with antibiotics or other prescription medication. Others, like human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), are incurable, but with routine monitoring and treatment, can be prevented from getting worse.
The AIH Medical and Psychiatric Services team treats a range of common STDs, including:
Some STDs aren’t caused by viruses and bacteria. For example, pubic lice, or crabs, are small parasites that cling to the pubic hair and genitals.
Make an appointment with the AIH Medical and Psychiatric Services team if you develop any of the following symptoms after having sex:
These symptoms can occur for various reasons, but you must get screened nonetheless. STDs tend to get worse over time. Prompt treatment can help you feel better and protect the health of your sexual partners.
Your AIH Medical and Psychiatric Services provider reviews your medical records and asks about your sex life, including how often you have sex, if you have intercourse with multiple partners, and whether or not you use protection, such as condoms. Answer these questions honestly. The team isn’t there to judge you, but your responses provide important insights.
Next, your provider completes a physical exam. They look for signs of infection, like bumps, sores, or rashes, and order several types of lab work, including blood tests, urine tests, and a swab.
Your provider sends your samples to a nearby lab that analyzes them for the presence of sexually transmitted viruses, bacteria, or parasites. After confirming your diagnosis, the team makes personalized treatment recommendations.
The AIH Medical and Psychiatric Services team treats STDs with a combination of prescription medication and healthy lifestyle changes. Depending on the type of infection you have, they might prescribe antibiotics and/or antivirals. These medications clear the infection, prevent you from spreading the infection to others, or help manage it long-term to avoid negative symptoms.
Take your medications as prescribed and follow your doctor’s recommendations. Most STDs can be prevented by practicing safe sex.
Call AIH Medical and Psychiatric Services to schedule an STD screening, or book your appointment online today.