Q: Should I ask about routine STD screenings at my annual physical?
A: Absolutely! Asking about routine sexually transmitted disease screenings at your annual physical is a smart and proactive way to take care of your health. Let’s talk about why it matters and how to approach it.
STDs are more common than you might think, and many don’t cause any noticeable symptoms. That’s why regular testing is so important. It helps catch infections early, making treatment easier and reducing the risk of complications or spreading them to others.
You might wonder, “Do I really need to be tested?” The answer depends on your age, lifestyle and risk factors. For example, sexually active women under 25 are generally advised to get tested annually for chlamydia and gonorrhea. If you’re over 25 and have new or multiple partners, testing is still a good idea. For men who have sex with men, more frequent screenings for HIV, syphilis, chlamydia and gonorrhea are often recommended. And no matter your gender or age, everyone between 13 and 64 should get tested for HIV at least once, with yearly tests for those at higher risk. Pregnant individuals should also talk to their doctor about specific tests to protect both their health and their baby’s.
You might be surprised to learn that many doctors don’t automatically include STD screenings during a physical. It’s not that they don’t care. Sometimes it’s about time constraints or focusing on other health priorities. That’s why it’s a great idea to bring it up yourself. A simple, “Can we talk about STD screenings?” or “What tests do you recommend based on my lifestyle?” can get the ball rolling.