Your Guide to Confidential STI Testing in South Tampa, FL
If you are sexually active, routine testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can help you and your partner stay healthy. South Tampa Immediate Care offers discreet STI testing in South Tampa, Florida. Our walk-in clinic is equipped with a state-of-the-art lab, enabling our experienced team to process many of the samples we collect on-site. Stop by at your convenience, and we will provide the fast and accurate answers you need and deserve.
What Are the Different Ways in Which STIs Can Be Received?
Sexually transmitted infections are mainly spread through the exchange of bodily fluids— including semen, vaginal secretions, and blood—during intimate physical contact, such as vaginal, oral, or anal sex. Some infections can be passed from mother to baby during pregnancy or childbirth. STIs can also be transmitted via blood transfusions and shared needles that are contaminated with infected blood.
What Types of STIs Can Be Screened For?
At South Tampa Immediate Care, we can test for gonorrhea and chlamydia—two of the most common STIs—with the groundbreaking binx health io Diagnostic System®. Using ultra-rapid, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and Binx Health’s proprietary electrochemical detection technology, binx io can process a sample immediately and produce a result within 30 minutes. This innovative molecular platform enables our team to provide an STI diagnosis and treatment in a single visit.
In addition to rapid testing for gonorrhea and chlamydia, we can test for hepatitis, herpes, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and syphilis, with the results typically available within 3-5 days.
What Is the STI Testing Process?
Typically, testing for a sexually transmitted infection involves several steps. At South Tampa Immediate Care, your provider may perform a physical examination and collect a small sample of your blood, urine, or saliva. The specimen will then be tested in a clinical lab.
After your STI test is processed, your provider will explain the results and provide appropriate treatment or follow-up recommendations if needed. It is important to closely follow your provider’s instructions, which may include notifying your recent sexual partners if you test positive for an STI.
Why Should You Urgently Test for STIs?
Urgent testing for sexually transmitted infections is important for several reasons. First, if left untreated, some STIs can have serious health consequences, such as infertility, chronic pain, and an increased risk of HIV transmission. Second, early detection and treatment can help prevent the spread of STIs to your sexual partners. Finally, prompt STI testing can alleviate anxiety and provide peace of mind, allowing you to seek treatment if necessary and take appropriate steps to protect your health.
Why Is Confidentiality Important in STI Testing?
Confidentiality in STI testing is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, it protects the privacy and dignity of those tested. Confidentiality also allows people to seek testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections without fear of judgment or discrimination. Additionally, maintaining confidentiality helps to build trust between patients and healthcare providers, which is essential for effective healthcare delivery. Finally, confidentiality is required by law in many areas to protect patient rights and privacy. If you have questions, contact South Tampa Immediate Care today, or stop by our walk-in clinic at 602 S. Howard Ave. for confidential STI testing at your convenience. Unlike many South Tampa STI clinics, we do not require appointments.
