| What is an STD assessment? It is an assessment for sexually transmitted diseases.
It consists of:
- a brief sexual history
- education
- a physical examination
- possible laboratory testing
Your clinician will determine with you what tests, if any, are
appropriate. Tests may require:
- a urine sample
- oral, vagina, penile or rectal swab
- cervical culture and/or
- blood draw
Note: UHS provides STD assessment and HIV
antibody testing separately.
STD assessments have limitations It is not possible to test for
all STDs. Talk to your clinician about what tests can be performed.
When should I have an STD assessment? An
assessment is recommended if you experience symptoms:
- unusual discharge
- painful or burning with urination
- genital skin changes (rash, sore, blister, growths)
- pelvic discomfort or pain (women)
- testicular pain (men).
Note: It's important to see a clinician when symptoms are present.
However, a person who has an STD may not experience any symptoms
and there are other causes of these symptoms.
An assessment is also recommended if you think you may have been
exposed, or may be at risk of exposing others to an STD.
Women who are sexually active are advised to have an annual gynecological
exam. Your clinician may also recommend a Pap smear.
Men who are sexually active are advised to have an STD assessment,
according to the recommendations above.
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How can I get an STD assessment? STD assessments are available by appointment or walk-in, but appointments
are recommended. See Appointment
or Walk-in. You can request a male or female clinician. Please
tell the scheduler that you would like an STD assessment.
How can I get test results?
During your visit, your clinician will tell you how to get your
test results. STD test results are typically available 2-3 business
days after your visit.
What about confidentiality? Your medical records
are kept completely confidential and can be released ONLY with your written consent. If you are a UM student
(Ann Arbor campus), enrolled for the current semester, an STD assessment will not be billed to your insurance
company. However, billing for these visits may occur for those who are not currently enrolled at
the time of service.
Suggestions for STD/HIV prevention
- No partners (abstaining) or fewer partners means less risk.
- Decide with your partner about how you will practice safer sex.
- Ask questions about your partner's sexual history, including STD assessment and
HIV testing.
- Avoid mixing alcohol or other drugs with sex because they interfere with decision making.
- Choose lower risk sexual activities, such as mutual masturbation instead of intercourse.
- Use a condom (latex or polyurethane) during intercourse. Use a water-based lubricant to reduce
the risk of breakage.
- Use a barrier (condom, latex square, etc.) with oral-genital or oral-anal contact.
- Wash shared sex toys thoroughly between uses.
- Minimize damage to tissues during sexual activities by using adequate lubrication and avoiding
behaviors that draw blood.
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Resources for sexual health information
At University Health Service:
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