STI Screenings
The Doc's Here
Azra Hussaini, MD FACP
House Call & Telemedicine located in Catonsville, MD
If you’re sexually active, using protection and getting regular screenings for STIs are the most important steps for preventive care. While it can feel awkward to talk about, it’s very important to get tested since STIs can cause a lot of health complications if left untreated. At The Doc’s Here, Azra Hussaini, MD, FACP, provides STI-related counseling and testing referrals that are quick, private, and judgment-free. Dr. Hussaini will do a whole patient evaluation where she assesses and listens to everything, and your most important issue will be addressed right away. Call The Doc’s Here or use the online scheduling tool to book your appointment today.
STI Screenings Q & A
How do I know if I have an STI?
If you’ve ever had sex, even oral, you’re at risk of having an STI (sexually transmitted infection, previously called sexually transmitted diseases or STDs). Different STIs have different symptoms. Many common STIs, like chlamydia and gonorrhea, don’t even have visible signs.
If left untreated, STIs are very harmful and can cause inflammatory diseases, infertility, and cancer. The only way you can be sure you have an STI is to book an appointment at The Doc’s Here to get tested.
What are the different types of STIs?
There are many different STDs. Some of the most common are:
- Gonorrhea
- Chlamydia
- Trichomoniasis
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis C
- Herpes
- HIV
- Syphilis
Many STIs don’t show symptoms right away, so regular tests are important to screen for these diseases.
What should I get STI screening for?
STI testing depends on your gender and age. Adults between the ages of 13-64 should get tested for HIV at least once, and all sexually active adults should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia once a year.
Pregnant people should be tested for HIV, syphilis, Hepatitis B, gonorrhea, and chlamydia early in pregnancy in order to protect themselves and their baby.
All sexually active people should be tested for syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia at least once a year and, if they have multiple partners, at more frequent intervals (every 3-6 months).
Anyone who had unprotected sex or shared injection equipment should get HIV testing once a year.
If you or your partner need to be tested, call The Doc’s Here or go online to make an appointment with Dr. Hussaini. She can refer you to a testing facility, provide counseling and address all of your concerns.
Can STIs be cured?
Most STIs are curable if they are caught early on. Dr. Hussaini treats you with a course of antibiotics if you test positive for the following STIs:
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Syphilis
- Trichomoniasis
Some STIs don’t have a cure but can be managed with antivirals. These include:
- Herpes
- HIV/AIDS
- Hepatitis B
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
No matter which STI you have, it’s important to get tested so Dr. Hussaini knows how to treat it. At The Doc’s Here, Dr. Hussaini prescribes you the right antibiotics to treat and cure infections or prevent them from worsening.
To learn more about Dr. Hussaini’s accessible, inclusive, judgment-free approach to care, call the office or book a telemedicine appointment through the website.