Older woman holding potted flowers in greenhouse garden
OBGYN Services

STD Testing in Dallas, TX

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) pose a significant risk to those who are sexually active, many infections may not present visible symptoms. Left untreated, STDs can lead to serious complications, including infertility and the spread of infection to others. That’s why regular STD testing is crucial for early detection and prompt treatment.

Tricia Shimer prioritizes personalized care and education, helping patients understand their specific risk factors and lifestyle choices to determine the most appropriate STD testing regimen. Whether you have a new sexual partner, engage in unprotected sex, or exhibit symptoms of an STD, our team is here to provide you with compassionate and confidential testing.

Dr. Tricia Shimer is a board-certified OB/GYN with over fifteen years of experience treating women with STDs. Call (469) 364-3760 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Shimer today!

When to Get Tested for an STD

Getting tested for each type of STD during your annual visit is expensive and not necessary in most cases. Patients should speak with their doctor about their specific risk factors and lifestyle so that they can determine which tests are right for them.

The CDC recommends that you undergo an STD screening if:

You have a new sexual partner. Everyone who is sexually active should receive an STD screening at some point, and this is especially true if you are engaged in sexual relations with a new person.

You are having unprotected sex. Not wearing protection increases your risk. Because of this, it is recommended that you receive a screening If you’re having unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex.

You are engaging in high-risk behavior. If you or your partner have multiple partners, are an IV drug user or have had contact with a sex worker, it is strongly advised that you receive more frequent STD screenings.

You are exhibiting symptoms. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, it is always best to have it examined by your physician to determine the cause.

Symptoms to Watch Out For

It isn’t always obvious when you have an STD. Symptoms can be minor or even nonexistent in some cases. Dr. Shimer recommends patients to visit the doctor if you are experiencing:

  • Painful urination
  • Frequent urination
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Blisters or sores on genitals and/or anus
  • Itchy or irritated genital area
  • Unusual discharge
  • Fever / flu-like symptoms

STD Treatment

If results determine that you have an STD, the type of issue it is will determine how the STD is treated. STDs are broken down into three categories:

Bacterial STDs. Chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis are good examples of STDs caused by bacteria. These issues can be treated with antibiotics and should go away after the antibiotic treatment is completed.

Parasitic STDs. STDs that are caused by parasites like Trichomonas Vaginalis can be cured using antibiotics, antiparasitic drugs or prescription shampoos.

Viral STDs. STDs caused by a virus cannot be cured completely, but they can be managed. The most common types are HPV, genital herpes, hepatitis B and HIV.

Schedule an Appointment for STD Testing in Dallas, TX

If you suspect that you are experiencing symptoms of an STD, it is important that you schedule an appointment with Dr. Shimer as soon as possible. Contact our office at (469) 364-3760 and schedule an appointment today!