Is my STI curable?
Most bacterial infections (such as gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis) are curable with antibiotics. Regardless, it is important to get re-tested in three months to make sure that you have not gotten re-infected. It is also important to note that there are complications arising with the treatment of gonorrhea as antibiotic-resistant strains arise so prevention of STDs is incredibly important.
Herpes, HIV, and genital warts are all caused by viruses, and although there are medicines to treat the infections, no cure is possible at this time.
What to do next after testing positive for gonorrhea and chlamydia.
Which STI test should I get?
If you are sexually active, getting tested for STDs is one of the most important things you can do to protect your health. Make sure you have an open and honest conversation about your sexual history and STD testing with your doctor and ask whether you should be tested for STDs. If you are not comfortable talking with your regular health care provider about STDs, there are many clinics that provide confidential and free or low-cost testing.
Visit this page for finding the right test for you.
How to start the conversation with your partner
It might be hard to talk to your partner about getting tested for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), but it’s important. Chances are your partner will be glad you brought it up.
Visit this page for tips and tricks for these hard conversations.
Do adolescents (teenagers, youth under 18 years old) need parent/guardian permission for testing and treatment of STIs?
No, Texas Family Code § 32.003 states that adolescents may seek and obtain medical testing and treatment for STDs and HIV without parental/guardian permission. If there is a suspicion of abuse or neglect we are obligated to report that to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS).
Will I always know if I have an STI?
No. STDs are often without symptoms. In fact, with gonorrhea some men may not have symptoms and most women will not have symptoms at all and symptoms, when present in women, are often mild. Chlamydia is even more frequent without symptoms with about 75% of women and 50% having no symptoms. The only way to know for sure is to get tested for STDs.
Is my visit confidential?
Absolutely! We cannot share any information with anyone without your written permission, including parents or guardians. That means we can’t tell your parents, your teachers or your employer that you got tested and we can’t tell them the results. There are conditions where we must report positive STD’s or adolescents engaging in sexual activity. If there is a suspicion of abuse or neglect we are obligated to report that to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS).
How much will my visit cost?
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Fees for service will vary based on needed tests and exams. Our fees typically range from $55-125. All follow-up visits will be $15.
Syphilis Treatment
For syphilis treatment is $15.00