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STD Testing services offered in Cicero and Chicago, IL
Around one in five Americans has a sexually transmitted disease (STD). At Cermak Immediate Care in Cicero and the neighborhood of Marshall Square in Chicago, Illinois, their team offers STD testing and treatments that cure or manage such diseases. Schedule a screening at Cermak Immediate Care today by phone or online if you’re at risk or have symptoms of an STD. Walk-ins are also welcome.
What is STD testing?
STD testing at Cermak Immediate Care consists of medical exams and on-site lab tests that screen for STDs in people at risk of contracting STDs or who develop symptoms of these diseases. STDs are caused by parasites, bacteria, and viruses. Examples include:
- Genital herpes
- Syphilis
- Hepatitis A, B, and C
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Trichomoniasis
STDs spread through shared needles or other blood contact, sexual contact (anal, oral, and vaginal sex), or from a mother to her baby through childbirth and breast milk. Screening for and treating STDs helps better manage symptoms, cure the disease, or lessen the chance of spreading it to others.
Which symptoms indicate a need for STD testing?
The following symptoms could indicate that you need to visit Cermak Immediate Care for STD testing:
- Burning or painful urination
- Pain during sex
- Swollen or sore lymph nodes
- Unusual or smelly vaginal discharge
- Penis discharge
- Sores, lumps, or bumps on the genitals, rectal area, or mouth
- Rash on your feet, hands, or trunk
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
- Fever
- Lower abdominal pain
It could take several days to several years before symptoms develop, if at all. That’s why STD testing is critical if you’re at risk.
Examples of STD risk factors include having more than one sexual partner, having unprotected sexual intercourse, a history of STDs, exposure to a partner who has tested positive for STDs, and drug or alcohol misuse.
What should I expect during STD testing?
Many STD tests are available. Based on your situation, the Cermak Immediate Care team determines which are the most appropriate. They review your lifestyle, health history, and symptoms and complete a physical exam, including a pelvic exam of women.
You might undergo urinalysis, blood work, tissue swabs, or saliva tests. STD tests are painless, simple, and fast.
What happens after STD testing?
After Cermak Immediate Care receives your STD testing results, your provider discusses them with you and lets you know if you have an STD. Treatments vary based on your diagnosis. Some STDs are cured with antibiotics; others require lifelong management with antiviral medication to reduce the risk of disease transmission and avoid complications.
Abstain from sex during treatment and alert your sexual partners of a positive STD result. They must also be treated. Repeat STD tests when necessary and undergo routine medical monitoring to determine if your disease is being effectively managed or has been cured.
Schedule STD testing at Cermak Immediate Care by phone, request one online, or simply walk into the nearest office today.