STD Testing

While a lot of headway has been made in the awareness and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), they’re still a significant health concern, especially if left untreated. At Capital Women’s Care, the experienced OB/GYNs promote regular testing for STDs to provide their patients in Rockville and Silver Spring, Maryland, with peace of mind. To find out more about confidential STD testing, call to make an appointment at one of our offices.

​Rockville: 301-424-3444

Silver Spring: 301-593-5595

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STD Testing FAQs

How prevalent are STDs?

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) of all kinds are still prevalent in the United States. In fact, many doctors prefer to refer to them as sexually transmitted infections since many people may be infected but not present any symptoms.
In 2015, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported the following cases of STDs:

• 74,702 cases of syphilis
• 1,526,658 new cases of chlamydia
• 395,216 cases of gonorrhea
• 39,513 reported cases of HIV

The CDC doesn’t track cases of the most common STD -- the human papillomavirus (HPV) -- since many medical experts believe all sexually-active people will have some the infection over the course of their lives. Typically, your body deals with HPV on its own.

Why should I be tested for STDs?

There are two main reasons for receiving STD testing:
Stop the spreadSince you may not be aware you’ve been infected by an STD, you may unwittingly infect others.
Early treatmentMost STDs are easily treatable in their early stages. Left unchecked, however, an STD has the potential to create more severe problems down the road, such as cervical cancer.

What STD should I be tested for and how often?

The OB/GYNs at Capital Women’s Care recommend the following testing schedule:

• Individuals between the ages of 13-64 should be tested at least once for HIV
• Annual screening for chlamydia and gonorrhea for sexually-active women under the age of 25
• Annual testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea for older women who have high-risk factors, such as multiple sex partners
• Syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis B test for all pregnant women

While these recommendations provide basic guidelines, it’s best to sit down with your gynecologist to review your lifestyle and medical history.
If you’re more at risk of contracting an infection because of sexual activity with more than one partner or sexual activity with someone who’s infected, the doctor will likely recommend more frequent testing.

The OB/GYNs at Capital Women’s Care understand the delicate nature of STDs and provide confidential, non-judgmental testing. To learn more, call to book an appointment.
​​​​​​​​Rockville: 301-424-3444 | Silver Spring: 301-593-5595