STD Testing in Santa Fe, NM
Confidential, Compassionate STD Testing at Aspen Medical Center
No one likes the idea of testing for STDs (sexually transmitted diseases). Patients often worry about social stigmas surrounding sexual health, including the fear that they have caught or unknowingly passed on an STD. Although STD testing can cause anxiety, at Aspen Medical Center, we understand that sexual contact is a normal part of the human experience and treat every patient with non-judgmental compassion.
If you arrived at our website while searching for “STD testing near me,” we urge you to call us today to schedule your appointment with an Aspen Medical Center health care provider. Our board-certified physicians provide testing services, including pelvic exams, blood and urine screenings, and other tests to understand your situation. Catching an STD in its early stages allows us to help you treat or cure it, while negative STD tests will enable us to discuss preventative measures in the future.
What Are STDs?
Sexually transmitted diseases affect people who have oral, anal, or vaginal contact with a contagious sexual partner. Most sex partners who pass on an STD don’t know they have one, often due to not experiencing or recognizing symptoms. Sometimes, you may not realize you have an STD until you request testing services.
STDs come up in movies, TV shows, and everyday conversation, often with negative connotations or as part of a comedic set-up. At Aspen Medical Center, we understand that STDs require serious consideration since they can affect much more than your sexual health.
The best-known and most common STDs include:
Herpes
Herpes is a viral STD that comes in two forms: HSV-1, which typically causes cold sores around the mouth, and HSV-2, which leads to painful, itchy sores in the genital area. Though there’s no cure, modern treatment can greatly reduce outbreaks and transmission. STD testing helps confirm a diagnosis so you can start managing symptoms effectively and protect your partners.
Chlamydia
Caused by a bacterial infection, chlamydia often goes undetected due to its minimal symptoms. If you notice pain while urinating, pain in your lower stomach, or unusual discharge, visit your doctor for STD testing. Fortunately, you can cure chlamydia with doctor-prescribed antibiotics.
Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is a bacterial STD that often mimics chlamydia symptoms, like discharge or painful urination—though it can also be symptomless. With early STD testing, it can be quickly diagnosed and effectively treated with antibiotics. Routine testing helps protect your health and prevent further spread.
Human Papillomavirus
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a widespread STD that often causes no symptoms and may resolve without treatment. However, some strains can lead to genital warts or increase the risk of certain cancers over time. Regular STD testing and screenings can help catch high-risk cases early. If diagnosed, follow your provider’s recommendations until you’re in the clear.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a serious, lifelong condition that affects the immune system by targeting and weakening the body’s ability to fight infections and disease. If left untreated, HIV can progress to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), a more advanced and potentially life-threatening stage of the virus.
While there is currently no cure for HIV, advances in medicine have made it manageable with proper treatment and care. Individuals who are HIV-positive should maintain regular checkups with their healthcare provider, follow prescribed antiretroviral therapy (ART), and take all recommended precautions to prevent transmission to others.
Early STD testing is essential for detecting HIV and beginning treatment as soon as possible. With the right medical support, HIV-positive patients can live long, healthy lives and dramatically reduce the risk of spreading the virus. At Aspen Medical Center, we’re committed to providing compassionate care, education, and confidential STD testing to support those living with HIV and help prevent its spread.
Other STDs
Other sexually transmitted diseases your doctor can test for include:
- Hepatitis
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Syphilis
- Trichomoniasis
- Chancroid
- Pubic lice
- Scabies
How Does STD Testing Work?
Appointments for STD testing rarely include only one type of test. You may experience physical examinations, urine screenings, and blood tests during testing services. Even when you present symptoms or want to test for a particular STD, it’s safer to have multiple tests performed at once to cover all the possible diseases.
Some STD tests provide results while you’re still in the doctor’s office. Other screenings require testing at a specialized lab, where results may take several days or weeks to come back. You’re always welcome to call Aspen Medical Center to check in on your results if you have not heard back after a few days.
Do I Need an STD Test?
Regardless of your relationship status, routine STD testing is a critical part of maintaining your long-term health. Many sexually transmitted diseases can be asymptomatic—meaning you could carry and transmit an infection without knowing it. That’s why regular testing helps prevent dangerous, life-altering surprises and allows you to take control of your well-being before symptoms ever appear.
At Aspen Medical Center, we recommend STD testing during key transitions or changes in your sexual health, such as:
- Leaving a long-term relationship
- Entering a new relationship
- After contact with a new sexual partner
Getting tested is simple, confidential, and can bring peace of mind. While waiting on your test results, it’s important to abstain from sexual activity to prevent unknowingly spreading an infection. We also encourage open, honest conversations with current and future partners—everyone involved should have recent test results to make informed decisions about their sexual health.
Remember: STDs don’t discriminate. They can be transmitted by anyone, regardless of appearance or personal history. Don’t rely on assumptions—rely on testing. Let our team at Aspen Medical Center provide you with the care, education, and support you need to stay safe, healthy, and confident.
STD Testing Near Me
Aspen Medical Center provides comprehensive STD testing and treatment to all Santa Fe, NM patients. Call (505) 466-5885 to schedule testing services today.