STD testing is not one single test. It is a group of screenings chosen to match your body, your symptoms, and your sexual history. Some infections are best detected in urine, some need a swab from the area exposed, and others show up in blood. That is why a good testing visit usually starts with a brief conversation about your risks and any symptoms you might have. The goal is simple: identify infections early, treat what is treatable, and help prevent spread to partners.
At Lani City Medical, STD testing is offered in a confidential, judgment free setting, with tests tailored to your needs and fast, reliable results.
The Core Infections Most STD Testing Panels Screen For
When people ask what testing includes, they are usually talking about a common panel that checks for the infections seen most often in urgent care and primary care settings. Your clinician may recommend all of these or only some of them based on exposure and timing.
Chlamydia And Gonorrhea
These are two of the most frequently diagnosed bacterial STDs, and they are often tested together. They can infect the genitals, rectum, or throat. Many people have no symptoms, which is why routine screening is important for sexually active adults, especially younger women and people with new or multiple partners. Testing is typically done with a urine sample or a swab from the exposed site, using highly accurate NAAT testing.
Syphilis
Syphilis is a bacterial infection that can start with a painless sore and later cause serious long term complications if untreated. Because symptoms can be subtle or disappear, blood testing is the standard way to screen. Syphilis screening is also especially important during pregnancy.
HIV
HIV testing is a routine part of comprehensive STD care. Modern blood tests can detect HIV earlier than older methods, and repeat screening may be recommended if you have ongoing risk. Early detection matters because treatment can protect your immune system and prevent transmission to others.
Hepatitis B And Hepatitis C
Although people often think of hepatitis as a liver condition, both hepatitis B and C can be sexually transmitted. Blood tests are used for screening. The CDC recommends at least one lifetime hepatitis C screening for all adults, and more frequent checks for people with higher risk.
Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is a common parasitic infection that can cause discharge, irritation, or no symptoms at all. It is typically diagnosed through a swab or urine test. It is often added to panels for patients with vaginal symptoms or known exposure.
Tests That May Be Added Based On Your Situation
A truly useful STD visit is personalized. Depending on symptoms, partner history, or the types of sex you have, your clinician may recommend additional testing.
Herpes
Genital herpes is caused by HSV. If you have an active sore, the best test is a direct swab of the lesion. Blood testing can sometimes help if you have no sores but want to know whether you have been exposed in the past. Because herpes testing can be complex to interpret, it is usually ordered after a conversation about your specific concerns.
HPV And Cervical Screening
HPV is extremely common and often clears on its own, but some types can lead to cervical cancer. HPV is not usually checked with a simple blood or urine test. Instead, screening is done through Pap testing and, in some age groups, combined Pap and HPV testing. Your clinician will follow nationally recommended intervals based on age and risk.
Site Specific Testing For Oral Or Rectal Exposure
If you have had oral or anal sex, infections like gonorrhea and chlamydia can live in the throat or rectum even when genital tests are negative. In these cases, swabs from those sites are the right choice. Sharing this detail with your clinician helps make sure testing matches real exposure.
What Happens During A Testing Visit
Most visits follow a simple flow. First, you will talk briefly with a clinician about symptoms, partner changes, and what kind of exposure you may have had. Then samples are collected.
Blood draws are used for infections like HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis. Urine samples are common for chlamydia and gonorrhea. Swabs may be taken from the vagina, cervix, penis, throat, rectum, or any sores, depending on need. Some swabs can be self collected with instructions if you prefer. The entire process is typically quick, and you can return to your day right after.
When To Get Tested
Timing matters because every infection has a window period, meaning a short time after exposure when a test might not show a positive result yet. If you test too early, you could get a false negative even if you are infected. Your clinician can recommend the right timing based on what you are testing for.
In general, you should consider testing if you have symptoms like unusual discharge, burning with urination, pelvic pain, sores, or a new rash. You should also test after a new partner, if a partner tells you they tested positive, or if you have had unprotected sex. Many people also choose routine screening once a year, or more often if risk is higher.
Understanding Results And Next Steps
Negative results are reassuring, but they do not always mean you are in the clear forever. If you were tested soon after exposure, your clinician may suggest retesting after the window period. If a result is positive, do not panic. Most bacterial STDs are curable with antibiotics, and viral infections are manageable with modern treatment. Prompt care protects your health and helps stop spread to others. Your clinician will also talk with you about partner notification and prevention strategies that fit your life.
Take Charge Of Your Sexual Health With Lani City Medical
Knowing what STD testing includes helps you feel more confident and in control. Comprehensive testing usually covers chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis, with add on tests like trichomoniasis, herpes, or HPV screening when appropriate. If you have questions or want a confidential screening, Lani City Medical is here to help with professional STD testing and many other urgent care services. Visit the Lani City Medical main services page at lanicitymed.com to book your visit and get the care you need.