STI Screening

If you’re sexually active, consider talking to your physician about which sexually transmitted infections (STIs) to test for. In Cincinnati, Ohio, Lori Tucker, DO, offers in-home STI screening according to your risk. If you have any positive results, she provides the best possible care or management to restore your sexual health. Call Dr. Tucker or book your next STI screening online today. 

Which infections can STI screenings detect?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are bacterial or viral diseases that spread through sexual contact of any kind, including sexual intercourse, anal sex, and oral sex. These infections often don’t cause symptoms but can spread rapidly from person to person, especially if you don’t use condoms to reduce their transmission. 

Dr. Tucker offers private at-home testing for common STIs like:

• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Genital herpes
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
• Syphilis
• Trichomoniasis

Based on the details of your current sexual activity and sexual history, Dr. Tucker recommends tests for specific STIs according to your risks. You should consider STI testing if you have multiple sexual partners, a new sexual partner, or engage in certain types of sex, like oral or anal sex. 

How does STI screening work?

There are a number of ways that STI screening can work, and Dr. Tucker might use multiple methods during your testing appointment. 

Based on any present symptoms and your risk factors, you might get a:

Blood test

Dr. Tucker draws a sample of your blood to test in a lab for STI-causing viruses or bacteria. 

Swab test

Dr. Tucker might take a swab of a sore you have, or she can take a swab of your throat, anus, vagina, cervix, or penis. Lab testing can determine if any infections are present on a swab. 

Urine test

You collect a small sample of urine that Dr. Tucker can use for lab testing for certain infections. 

What does STI treatment entail?

Contrary to some misinformation, STIs are not all incurable. In fact, with early detection, you can clear many STIs without any further complications for your health. 

Dr. Tucker prescribes antibiotic medications for most bacterial STIs. These medications treat bacterial infections, but you must take the complete course to clear the infection. 

Viral STIs can be treated or managed with other medications, which Dr. Tucker teaches you to use according to the type of infection you have. She can also offer helpful tips on minimizing your risk of getting an STI in the future. 

To learn more about at-home STI, call the office of Lori Tucker, DO, or request an appointment online today.