How to Ask About Getting Tested For STDs

Sometimes it can be hard to figure out if you have an sexually transmitted disease (STD) or just a symptom of another problem. Your family doctor or health department can test you for a wide array of diseases. Many STDs can cause permanent damage, whereas for others there is no cure. It is always a good idea to be tested if you change sexual partners, or suspect you may be infected. Here is how to talk to a health professional about getting tested.

Things You'll Need

• Family doctor or local health department phone number
• Sexual history

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Instructions

• 1

  Call your family doctor if you have one, or your local health department if you do not. Ask for an appointment for a reproductive health issue. They will understand what you are asking for; you should not have to elaborate.

• 2

  Before your appointment, if you have any symptoms, write them down to keep track so that your physician can check on this for you.

• 3

  When at the appointment, tell your doctor what it is that you have a complaint with. They encounter these things every day, and you should not be afraid to tell them any concerns you have.

• 4

  If you have no complaints, but have changed sexual partners, let your physician know this. They suggest that you be tested any time you have a different partner, and will understand your concern.