Sexual health screenings for women are key to screen for any potential medical problems, assess your risk for potential issues in the future, facilitate a healthy way of life, and provide patients with an in-person visit with their provider so they can feel more comfortable. Having regular check-ups not only gives peace of mind, but helps you age without worrying about any future long-term concerns.
Even though you may feel like you are totally healthy, getting regular sexual health screenings done can put your mind at ease and help assure you that there is no pressing medical issue that must be addressed. These visits can help you plan your future medical care, avoid problems, and identify any current or potential lifelong conditions. Let’s see a few timelines and tests that you can add to your health check-up this year.
Infectious Disease Sexual Health Screenings
Women who are sexually active should be screened for specific types of STDs during different age ranges of their lives. The benefits of sexual health screenings include safer sex practices, one-on-one private consultation with a healthcare professional, STI management, and pathways to care. Periodic sexual health screenings are an effective way to protect against any diseases or follow a treatment plan for current concerns.
Chlamydia
Once a woman becomes sexually active, they should be tested for chlamydia until they are 25 years old. After 25 years old, women who are at high risk should be tested regularly for these sexually transmitted diseases. Rectal chlamydia testing can also be performed for women based on certain sexual activities and potential exposure to the disease. Consulting with your physician is a smart way to determine the next testing period.
Gonorrhea
Sexually active women under the age of 25 years old should be screened yearly. If you require treatment, another gonorrhea screening should be done 3 months post-treatment. Pregnant women should retest for gonorrhea during the third trimester if they are at high risk for the disease or under 25 years old.
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is an inflammation of the liver due to a sexually transmitted virus. Every adult should get a test for hepatitis C after they are sexually active. Pregnant women should get sexual health screenings during every pregnancy for the health of themselves and their unborn child.
Syphilis
Women should undergo syphilis testing for sexual health if they are at an increased risk for infection. Some instances of being at higher risk include undertaking sex work, certain geographical locations, and race. Pregnant women should retest for syphilis based on personal lifestyle, such as a partner with an STD or substance use during/before pregnancy.
Herpes
Women who are undertaking an STI evaluation or STD screening for sexual health should consider getting a specific HSV test. In addition, pregnant women who are at a high risk for infection should undergo a specific serologic test during pregnancy. This can help protect themselves and their fetus.
Trichomonas
Women who have received care for sexually transmitted diseases in high-risk settings, like correctional facilities, should consider getting sexual health screenings for trichomonas. Plus, those who are at a high risk of infection, such as women with multiple partners or those with a history of drug use, should consider screening.
Hepatitis B
Women who are concerned about their health, or lifestyle, should consider getting tested for Hepatitis B. This includes women who have already undergone treatment for an STI, or for those who had an intimate relationship with a partner who has a sexually transmitted disease. Getting tested on a regular basis for Hepatitis B is a smart and mature way to keep you, and your partner(s), protected.
HIV
Women should have a one-time test for the human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, in addition to the typical STDs. Additionally, if a pregnant woman is at high risk or leads a “higher risk” lifestyle, she should think about retesting in the third trimester. The best approach to staying safe is to take the initiative. Sexual health tests are beneficial to a woman’s emotional and physical well-being. Prioritizing women’s sexual health is key to staying safe and having a fulfilling sex life, allowing you and your partner to enjoy intimacy together.
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This article is simply intended to provide information. It is not intended to replace the advice from a physician. Please speak with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. Total Apex is a leading content producer. We provide articles every day on entertainment, gaming, sports, and other current topics!
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