STD Testing Specialist
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Women's Health Specialist of North Atlanta
OB-GYNs located in Johns Creek, GA
Regular testing for STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) is crucial for your overall well-being. Dr. Ann Cha has acquired years of experience administering these tests to identify and address these common health issues. Located in Suwanee, Georgia, Dr. Cha’s practice remains aware of the higher than average HIV and syphilis rates in Georgia. Schedule your yearly appointment, or a special appointment for STD testing if you have symptoms or concerns, by contacting Women’s Health Specialists of North Atlanta.
STD Testing Q & A
What is STD Testing?
Your doctor tests you for sexually transmitted diseases through physical exams, Pap smears, blood, urine, genital, or anal secretion tests. If you have had unprotected sex, it’s important to get tested even if you show no signs or symptoms. If you test positive, your sexual partners will need to seek testing and treatment as well.
Sexually transmitted diseases are spread by engaging in sexual activity with a partner who has an STD. Sexual activity can involve the mouth, anus, penis, or vagina.
What types of STDs are there?
STDs are infections that are transmitted through vaginal, anal, and oral sex. They are very common and don’t always cause noticeable symptoms. Some STDs include:
- HPV
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Certain forms of hepatitis
- Syphilis
- Trichomoniasis
- HIV
STDs should be taken very seriously as they bear long-term consequences and can even be fatal.
Who is at risk of getting an STD?
STDs are transmitted through several types of contact. Individuals at high risk include those who:
- Have more than one sex partner
- Have sex with someone who’s had many sex partners
- Don’t use a condom when having sex
- Share needles when injecting intravenous drugs
- Trade sex for money or drugs
Are STDs treatable?
Most STDs are treatable with medications; however, there are certain types that can only be managed but not cured. These include HIV and herpes. HIV is a chronic condition that leads to AIDS, a fatal disease.
While treatable, complications with STDs can arise with delayed treatment. Sometimes people don’t realize they have an STD until it does damage to their reproductive organs, vision, heart, or other organs. Carrying an STD also weakens the immune system, leaving you prone to other infections or health complications.
What causes STDs?
STDs include both bacterial and viral infections. The germs causing these infections hide in semen, blood, vaginal secretions, and sometimes saliva, and are mostly spread by vaginal, anal, or oral sex. However certain viral infections, like genital herpes and genital warts, can spread through skin contact. Hepatitis B is another type of viral infection that can spread through sharing personal hygiene products like toothbrushes or razors.
How often should I get tested for STDs?
It’s best to get tested for STDs during your annual physical. Doctors recommend getting tested for chlamydia and gonorrhea every year until age 25.
Accepted Insurances
This is a just a list of some of the insurances accepted at Women's Health Specialist of North Atlanta. Please call our office to confirm that we accept your plan.
Words from our patients
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"Very comforting, friendly, and caring place. The service is absolutely top notch. Dr. Cha is very personable, friendly and highly competent. Highly recommend!"
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"Dr. Cha is a wonderful, caring and fun person. Had hysterectomy with her and everything went very well. Her office is clean and neat, the staffs are sweet and great."
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"I went to Dr. Cha's office to have the Mona Lisa procedure. Dr. Cha and her entire staff are amazing! The staff was extremely professional... Highly recommend!"
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"Dr. Ann Cha made me feel very comfortable and so relaxed. I will definitely be coming in for any future procedures."
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"I am so glad that I found Dr. Cha's office. She and all of her staff were very professional and caring. They really take the time to get to know their patients."
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"I recently completed the 3-step Mona Lisa procedure. I cannot say enough about the professionalism of the team and what an amazing experience it was...."
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"Her staff has always been awesome... I would recommend Dr. Cha's office to anyone looking for a reliable OB/Gyn you can trust."
