Screening for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) | Patient FAQs

What is the difference between a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and sexually transmitted disease (STD)?

Sexually transmitted infection (STI) is the more clinically accurate way to refer to the bacteria, parasites, or viruses that can be transmitted from one person to another during sexually activity and may never show any signs. Sexually transmitted disease (STD) is the condition that occurs when that infection presents symptoms and creates a health problem. STD is more well known and commonly used outside of a healthcare environment, but may carry a stigma and create unnecessary barriers to care.

Which STIs are included in tests?

Typically, standard STI screening panel includes chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV. If you have been exposed to or are exhibiting symptoms for other STIs, or your provider recommends additional testing, they may order additional tests. Be sure to discuss the screenings with your provider.

How often should I be tested for STIs?

Advantia Health providers recommend STI screening at least once per year at your annual exam, or anytime you are experiencing common symptoms of an STI. These symptoms include vaginal itching, irritation, abnormal odor or discharge, pain during sex or while urinating, or a tender lesion or sore. Additionally, your provider may recommend more frequent testing based on your lifestyle choices or health history. It is important to provide complete sexual history, health and risk factor information to your provider to help ensure the best possible care.

Is STI testing included in my Annual Well-woman Exam?

From an insurance perspective, an annual Well-woman Exam typically includes routine counseling on medical conditions and risk factors such as STD/STI prevention (STD/STI screening isn’t automatic, but can be requested if at risk). Lab testing may also be covered without a deductible if considered preventative care, but with a copay if it is considered diagnostic care. Learn more about Well-woman visit billing. If extensive counseling is required about sexual health or non-standard testing, your provider may request that you schedule a follow-up visit so there is sufficient time for this. Routine STI testing can help identify STIs for which you are asymptomatic. If at any point, you are experiencing symptoms that may be indicative of an STI, you should schedule a dedicated visit as soon as you are able to get tested as appropriate. Delaying or avoiding treatment for an STI can result in permanent health problems.

How are STI tests done?

The method of STI testing will vary based upon the STI for which you’re being tested, your health history, and whether you have an active infection.

Where can I get tested for STIs?

Your women’s health provider can include routine STI testing and counseling in your Well-woman Exam. If you are experiencing symptoms, you should schedule a dedicated visit for the appropriate testing. Your primary care provider, local health department, urgent care clinics and some pharmacy clinics may also offer testing and treatment services. At-home test kits are available for some STIs, however, you may need a provider to prescribe treatment based upon the results.

No matter which provider you choose, it is important that you get tested soon after noticing symptoms to avoid long-term problems, and provide complete and accurate information about your health history so that your provider can select the most appropriate testing and treatment options. You may wish to select the provider you are most comfortable having these discussions with. STI testing is confidential and protected, like your other health information, and healthcare providers are concerned with your well-being, not judging your choices.

Is STI testing covered by insurance?

If you are having routine STI screening performed as part of your annual preventative care and you meet certain criteria (which may include age, gender, risk factors and pregnancy status), the Affordable Care Act requires most insurance plans to cover testing for STIs that include chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, and syphilis without a copay, coinsurance, or deductible payment. For other tests, you may incur out-of-pocket costs.

If you are experiencing STI symptoms that require testing, those tests are typically also covered by insurance. However, copays, deductibles, and coinsurance costs may apply. If you are unsure about what is covered by your plan, you should contact them using the information on your insurance card.

What happens if I get positive results?

Positive STI results mean that the virus, bacteria or parasite being tested for is present in your body. Your provider will likely prescribe antibiotics for bacterial infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, or syphilis, or a parasitic infection like trichomoniasis. For herpes and HIV, which are viruses, cures are currently unavailable. However, there are a number of medicines available to help manage the condition and symptoms. You should take all medicines as directed, including taking the complete course of antibiotics even if your symptoms improve. Your provider will instruct you about when it is safe to resume sexual activity, and if additional testing and follow up is needed. Be sure to tell your recent partner(s) about your STI so they can also receive the appropriate testing and prevent long-term health issues.