Get Tested for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Syphilis

32 Get Tested for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Syphilis HIV and Other STDs, Screening Tests, Sexual Health Sexual Health, Women 4/26/2013 11:29:37 AM http://www.healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/glmedia/icons/gettestedforchlamydia,gonorrhea,andsyphilis.jpg smiling young man http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/Category/health-conditions-and-diseases/hiv-and-other-stds/get-tested-for-chlamydia-gonorrhea-and-syphilis STD Testing: Conversation starters http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/Category/health-conditions-and-diseases/hiv-and-other-stds/std-testing-conversation-starters tool HIV Testing: Questions for the doctor http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/Category/health-conditions-and-diseases/hiv-and-other-stds/hiv-testing-questions-for-the-doctor tool Get Tested for HIV http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/Category/health-conditions-and-diseases/hiv-and-other-stds/get-tested-for-hiv topic Choose the Right Birth Control http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/Category/health-conditions-and-diseases/hiv-and-other-stds/choose-the-right-birth-control topic

The Basics Most people who have a sexually transmitted disease (STD) don’t have any symptoms. The only way to know if you have an STD is to get tested. Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis are STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) that can be passed on during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. STDs can also be passed from a pregnant woman to her baby before or during the baby’s birth.Most people who have an STD don’t have any symptoms. Getting tested is the only way to know for sure if you have an STD.STDs are also sometimes called STIs (sexually transmitted infections).Can these STDs be cured? Yes. These STDs can be easily cured with medicine if they are treated early. If these STDs aren’t treated, they can cause serious health problems, like making it impossible to have a baby.If you have an STD, it’s important to get treatment right away. Anyone you have sex with may also need treatment or you could get infected again.Who needs to get tested for chlamydia (“kluh-MID-ee-uh”)?For women:<ul ><li>If you are under age 25 and having sex, get tested once every year.</li><li>If you are age 25 or older, get tested if you have new or multiple sex partners.</li></ul>For men:<ul ><li>Talk with a doctor if you are worried about chlamydia or other STDs.</li><li>Tell a doctor if you have any of these <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/std/chlamydia/STDFact-Chlamydia.htm#a4" >symptoms of chlamydia</a>.</li></ul>What are the signs of chlamydia? Most people who have chlamydia don’t have any signs or symptoms.<ul ><li>Women may have abnormal discharge (fluid) from the vagina, burning when they urinate (pee), or pain during sex.</li><li>Men may have discharge from the penis or burning when they urinate.</li></ul>How is the test done? A doctor or nurse can test your urine for chlamydia. Sometimes a sample is taken from the vagina or penis to test. The test is easy and painless.Learn more about chlamydia:<ul><li><a href="http://www.cdc.gov/std/Chlamydia/the-facts/Chlamydia_2011_508.pdf" >Chlamydia Fact Sheet [PDF - 4 MB]</a></li><li><a href="http://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/chlamydia.cfm" >Women and Chlamydia</a></li></ul>Who needs to get tested for gonorrhea (“gah-nuh-REE-uh”)?For women:<ul ><li>If you are under age 25 and having sex, get tested for gonorrhea.</li><li>If you are age 25 or older, get tested if you:<ul><li>Have new or multiple sex partners</li><li>Don’t use a condom every time you have sex</li><li>Use drugs</li><li>Have ever had an STD</li></ul>For men:<ul ><li>Talk to your doctor if you are worried about gonorrhea or other STDs.</li><li>Tell your doctor if you have any of these <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/std/Gonorrhea/STDFact-gonorrhea.htm#symptoms" >signs and symptoms of gonorrhea</a>.</li></ul>What are the signs of gonorrhea? Most people who have gonorrhea don’t have any signs or symptoms.<ul ><li>Women may have abnormal discharge (fluid) from the vagina, burning when they urinate (pee), or pain during sex.</li><li>Men may have discharge from the penis or burning when they urinate.</li></ul>How is the test done? A doctor or nurse can test your urine for gonorrhea. Sometimes a sample is taken from the vagina or penis to test. The test is easy and painless.Learn more about gonorrhea:<ul><li><a href="http://www.cdc.gov/std/gonorrhea/the-facts/gonorrhea-the-facts-2012.pdf" >Gonorrhea Fact Sheet [PDF - 19 KB] </a></li><li><a href="http://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/gonorrhea.cfm" >Women and Gonorrhea</a></li></ul></li></ul>Who needs to get tested for syphilis (“SIF-uh-lis”)?<ul ><li>All pregnant women</li><li>Men who have sex with men if they (or their partner) have sex with anyone else</li></ul>What are the signs of syphilis? Many people who have syphilis don’t have any signs or symptoms. Some people have symptoms during the early stages (or phases) of infection.<ul ><li>In the first stage, a painless sore appears on the genitals, lips, tongue, or butt.</li><li>The second stage may include a rash on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, sores on the throat or mouth, fever, or spotty hair loss.</li></ul>How is the test done? The doctor or nurse may test your blood for syphilis. Sometimes fluid is taken from a sore to see if it’s caused by syphilis.Learn more about syphilis:<ul><li><a href="http://www.cdc.gov/std/Syphilis/STDFact-Syphilis.htm" >Syphilis Fact Sheet</a></li><li><a href="http://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/syphilis.cfm" >Women and Syphilis</a></li><li><a href="http://www.cdc.gov/std/Syphilis/STDFact-MSM-Syphilis.htm" >Syphilis and MSM (Men Who Have Sex With Men)</a></li></ul>

Take Action! If you think you may be at risk, make an appointment to get tested. Get checked regularly for STDs, especially if you are under age 25. Talk with your partner about getting tested, too.Make an appointment at a health center or clinic. If you think you may be at risk, talk with your doctor about STDs. To find an STD clinic near you:<ul ><li><a href="http://hivtest.cdc.gov/STDTesting.aspx" >Enter your ZIP code to find a local testing site</a>.</li><li>Call 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636).</li></ul><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTool.aspx?toolId=28">Be sure to ask about getting tested for HIV</a>.What about cost? Some STD testing and prevention counseling is covered under the <a href="http://www.healthcare.gov/law/features/rights/preventive-care/index.html" >Affordable Care Act</a>, the health care reform law passed in 2010. Depending on your insurance plan, you may be able to get these services at no cost to you.Talk to your insurance company to find out what this means for you. <a href="http://www.healthcare.gov/news/factsheets/2010/07/preventive-services-list.html" >For information about other services covered by the Affordable Care Act, visit HealthCare.gov</a>.Stay safe. The best way to protect yourself from STDs is to not have sex or to wait until you are in a relationship with only one person and you’ve both been tested. If either of you has an STD, get it treated before having sex.Here are some other ways to protect yourself from STDs:<ul ><li><a href="http://www.ashastd.org/std-sti-works/condoms.html" >Use a latex condom every time you have vaginal, anal, or oral sex</a>. </li><li>Make sure you and your partner have been tested for STDs.</li></ul><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTool.aspx?toolId=17">Get tips on talking with your partner about STD testing</a>.

Start Today: Small Steps <ul><li><a href="http://womenshealth.gov/hiv-aids/preventing-hiv-infection/practice-safer-sex.html">Practice safer sex to prevent HIV</a>.</li><li>Call 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636) to find an STD clinic near you.</li><li><a href="http://www.cdc.gov/std/pregnancy/the-facts/stds-and-pregnancy-the-facts-2007.pdf" >Get the facts on STDs and pregnancy [PDF - 495 KB]</a>.</li></ul>

The Basics The only way to know if you have HIV is to get tested. Everyone ages 15 to 65 needs to get tested for HIV at least once. All pregnant women also need to get tested.The only way to know if you have HIV is to get tested. You could have HIV and still feel healthy.How often you get tested depends on your risk for HIV infection.Get tested for HIV at least once a year if you:<ul ><li>Have unprotected sex (sex without a condom) with someone who may have HIV</li><li>Have sex with men who have sex with men</li><li>Use drugs with needles</li><li>Have a sex partner who is HIV-positive (has HIV)</li><li>Have had a sexually transmitted disease (STD)</li></ul>Get tested every 3 to 6 months if you:<ul ><li>Are a man who has sex with men</li><li>Have sex with more than one partner</li><li>Have sex with people you don’t know</li><li>Have sex for drugs or money</li></ul>Talk to your doctor or nurse about your risk for HIV. Ask how often you need to get tested.Why do I need to get tested for HIV? Many people with HIV don’t have any symptoms. Even if you don’t feel sick, getting early treatment for HIV is important. The only way to know if you have HIV is to get tested.<ul ><li>If you are HIV-negative (you don’t have HIV), you can take steps to make sure you stay HIV-free.</li><li>If you are HIV-positive (you have HIV), you can take steps to have a healthier future. You can also take steps to protect other people.</li></ul>Live longer with HIV. If you have HIV, early treatment can help you live a longer, healthier life. The sooner you get care for HIV, the better.<ul ><li><a href="http://aids.gov/hiv-aids-basics/just-diagnosed-with-hiv-aids/treatment-options/overview-of-hiv-treatments/" >Find out about treatment options for HIV</a>.</li><li><a href="http://aids.gov/hiv-aids-basics/staying-healthy-with-hiv-aids/taking-care-of-yourself/doctor-clinic-and-dental-visits/" >Get information about staying healthy with HIV</a>.</li><li><a href="http://locator.aids.gov/" >Use this tool to find services for people with HIV or AIDS, like housing assistance, health centers, and counseling</a>.</li></ul>Protect yourself and others. If you are HIV-positive, you can <a href="http://aids.gov/hiv-aids-basics/staying-healthy-with-hiv-aids/taking-care-of-yourself/sexual-health/index.html#preventing-hiv" >take steps to protect your partner</a> from the virus. If you are pregnant or thinking about getting pregnant, you can get treatment to <a href="http://womenshealth.gov/hiv-aids/preventing-hiv-infection/protecting-your-children-from-hiv.cfm#a" >prevent passing HIV to your baby</a>.How can I get tested for HIV? There are different types of HIV tests. The most common are:<ul ><li>Lab tests – It can take from a few days to 2 weeks to get the results.</li><li>Rapid tests – Results are ready in 10 to 20 minutes.</li></ul>When you get tested, the nurse will take a sample of your blood or collect fluid from your mouth with a swab. If you test positive, the doctor or nurse will give you another test to be sure.<a href="http://aids.gov/hiv-aids-basics/prevention/hiv-testing/hiv-test-types/" >Find out more about the different types of HIV tests</a>.What’s the difference between confidential and anonymous testing? When you get tested at a doctor’s office or clinic, your test results are confidential. This means they can only be shared with people allowed to see your medical records.If you are worried about giving your name, you can get an anonymous HIV test at some clinics. This means that you don’t have to give your name.What is HIV? HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. This is the virus that causes AIDS. There is no cure yet for HIV/AIDS, but there are treatments that can help people live longer, healthier lives.How do people get HIV? HIV is spread through some of the body’s fluids, like blood, semen (cum), vaginal fluids, and breast milk. HIV is passed from one person to another by:<ul ><li>Having unprotected sex (vaginal, anal, or oral) with a person who has HIV</li><li>Sharing needles with someone who has HIV</li><li>Breastfeeding, pregnancy, or childbirth if the mother has HIV</li><li>Getting a blood transfusion that has HIV (very rare in the U.S.)</li></ul>Learn more about HIV/AIDS:<ul><li><a href="http://aids.gov/hiv-aids-basics/hiv-aids-101/what-is-hiv-aids/" >What is HIV/AIDS?</a></li><li><a href="http://www.womenshealth.gov/hiv-aids/" >Women and HIV/AIDS</a></li></ul>

Take Action! Talk with your partner about getting tested together before you have sex. Take these steps to protect yourself and others from HIV.Find a place to get tested. Ask your doctor or nurse for an HIV test. Or visit an HIV testing center or health clinic. You also can get tested at a hospital or health department.To find an HIV testing center near you:<ul ><li><a href="http://hivtest.cdc.gov/Default.aspx" >Enter your ZIP code to find local testing sites</a>.</li><li>Call 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636).</li></ul>If you want to know more about HIV testing and prevention, <a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTool.aspx?toolId=28">take this list of questions to your appointment</a>.What about cost? Free HIV testing is available at some testing centers and health clinics.Screening for HIV is also covered under the <a href="http://www.healthcare.gov/law/features/rights/preventive-care/index.html" >Affordable Care Act</a>, the health care reform law passed in 2010. HIV counseling is covered for women who are sexually active. Talk to your insurance company to find out what this means for you.<a href="http://www.healthcare.gov/news/factsheets/2010/07/preventive-services-list.html" >For information about other services covered by the Affordable Care Act, visit HealthCare.gov</a>.Protect yourself from HIV. The best way to protect yourself from HIV is to not have sex until you are in a relationship with only one person and you have both tested negative. Here are other steps you can take to help prevent HIV: <ul > <li>Use a latex condom with water-based lubricant every time you have vaginal or anal sex. </li> <li>When you have oral sex, use a condom or dental dam (rectangular sheet of latex placed over the vagina).</li> <li>Limit your number of sexual partners. </li> <li>Don’t inject drugs or share needles.</li> <li>If you have more than one sexual partner, get tested for HIV regularly.</li> </ul> <a href="http://www.hiv.va.gov/patient/sex/condom-tips.asp">Get tips on using condoms and dental dams</a>.Talk with your partner about getting tested. It’s important to make time to talk before having sex. Ask your partner to get tested for HIV and other STDs. Offer to get tested together.These ideas can help you start the conversation:<ul ><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTool.aspx?toolId=17">STD Testing: Conversation starters</a></li><li><a href="http://kidshealth.org/teen/sexual_health/stds/the_talk.html" >Tips for teens: Talking to your partner about STDs</a> </li></ul>Get counseling about HIV prevention. If you want more information about preventing HIV, ask your local testing center if they offer prevention counseling. You may want counseling if:<ul ><li>You are worried about getting HIV</li><li>You have HIV and are worried about giving it to someone else</li></ul>

Start Today: Small Steps <ul><li><a href="http://www.hiv.va.gov/patient/sex/condom-tips.asp">Check out these condom do’s and don’ts</a>.</li><li>Make an appointment to get tested for HIV.</li><li><a href="http://www.womenshealth.gov/hiv-aids/share-your-story/" >Read personal stories from women affected by HIV/AIDS</a>.</li></ul>

The Basics You can lower your risk of serious health problems by making small changes to your habits. Most men need to pay more attention to their health. Compared to women, men are more likely to:<ul ><li>Smoke and drink</li><li>Make unhealthy or risky choices</li><li>Put off regular checkups and medical care</li></ul>Do you know what it takes to stay healthy? <a href="http://www.ahrq.gov/patients-consumers/patient-involvement/healthy-men/quiz.html" >Take this men’s health quiz to find out</a>.It’s not too late. The good news is that you can start taking better care of your health today. Make <a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=21">eating healthy</a> and <a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=22">being active</a> a part of your daily routine. A healthy diet and regular physical activity can help lower your:<ul><li>Blood pressure</li><li>Blood sugar</li><li>Cholesterol (“koh-LEHS-tuh-rahl”)</li><li>Weight</li></ul>By keeping these numbers down, you can lower your risk of serious health problems like diabetes and heart disease.Here are some other important steps for taking care of your health:<ul ><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=20">Get screening tests</a> that are right for you.</li><li>Look out for signs of health problems like <a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=73">diabetes</a> or <a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=33">depression</a>.</li><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=16">Drink alcohol only in moderation</a>.</li><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=24">Quit smoking</a>.</li></ul>

Take Action! Ask your doctor about which screening tests you need. Follow these tips to take charge of your health.Talk about it. Don’t be embarrassed to talk about your health. Start by talking to family members to find out which diseases run in your family. <a href="https://familyhistory.hhs.gov/fhh-web/home.action" >Use this family health history tool</a> to keep track of what you learn. Share this information with your doctor.Make small changes every day. Small changes can add up to big results, like lowering your risk of diabetes or heart disease.<ul ><li>Take a walk instead of having a cigarette.</li><li>Try a green salad instead of fries.</li><li>Drink water instead of soda or juice.</li><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTool.aspx?toolId=57">Limit the amount of salt you eat</a>.</li></ul><a href="http://www.cdc.gov/family/minutes/" >Find more quick tips to keep you healthy</a>.Get screening tests to find diseases early. Screenings are medical tests that check for diseases. Screenings can help doctors find diseases early, when the diseases may be easier to treat.<ul ><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=11">Get your blood pressure checked</a> at least once every 2 years.</li><li>Talk to your doctor about <a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=14">getting your cholesterol checked</a>. Doctors recommend that most men get their cholesterol checked at least once every 5 years.</li><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=15">Get tested for colorectal cancer</a> if you are age 50 or older. Ask your doctor what type of screening test is right for you.</li><li>If you age 65 to 75 and have ever smoked, <a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=52">talk with your doctor about abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA)</a>.</li><li>Most men feel stressed, anxious, or depressed from time to time. If these feelings last for more than 2 weeks, <a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=33">talk to a doctor about screening for depression</a>. Most men with depression feel better when they get treatment.</li></ul>Talk to your doctor if you have questions about your prostate. All men have a prostate. The male prostate is a small sex gland that makes fluid to carry sperm. <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/prostate/basic_info/index.htm" >It’s located below the bladder and in front of the rectum</a>. <ul ><li><a href="http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/prostate/index.htm" >Get information about prostate cancer</a>.</li><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTool.aspx?toolId=30">Check out this list of questions to ask your doctor about prostate cancer screening</a>.</li></ul>Ask your doctor about taking aspirin every day. If you are age 45 or older, <a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=10">taking aspirin every day</a> could lower your risk of heart attack. Talk with your doctor about whether daily aspirin is right for you.What about cost? Many insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, will cover the cost of recommended preventive services like screening tests and shots.Also, many preventative services are covered under the <a href="http://www.healthcare.gov/law/features/rights/preventive-care/index.html" >Affordable Care Act</a>, the health care reform law passed in 2010. Depending on your insurance plan, you may be able to get screenings and shots at no cost to you.Check with your insurance provider to find out what’s included in your plan.<ul ><li><a href="http://www.healthcare.gov/news/factsheets/2010/07/preventive-services-list.html" >Find out which services are covered by the Affordable Care Act</a>.</li><li><a href="http://www.medicare.gov/coverage/preventive-and-screening-services.html" >Find out which services are covered under Medicare</a>.</li><li><a href="http://www.healthcare.gov/using-insurance/low-cost-care/medicaid/#cover" >Find out which services are covered under Medicaid.</a></li></ul>You can still get health care even if you don’t have insurance. <a href="http://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov/Search_HCC.aspx" >Find a health center</a> near you and make an appointment.

Start Today: Small Steps <ul><li><a href="http://www.caloriecontrol.org/healthy-weight-tool-kit/healthy-weight-calculator-men">Use this healthy weight calculator for men to find the right weight for you</a>. </li><li><a href="http://www.ahrq.gov/patients-consumers/patient-involvement/healthy-men/quiz.html">Take a quick quiz on men’s health</a>.</li><li><a href="http://www.health.gov/paguidelines/factSheetAdults.aspx">Find out what kinds of physical activity you need and how often</a>.</li></ul>

The Basics There are many different types of birth control. You are the best person to decide which method is right for you. Birth control (contraception) can help you prevent pregnancy until you are ready for a baby. Some types of birth control can also help protect you and your sex partner from sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).How do I choose the right birth control? There isn’t one method of birth control that’s right for everyone. Each type of birth control has pros and cons. Here are some things to think about when choosing a birth control method:<ul ><li>Do you want to have children some day? How soon?</li><li>Are you in good health?</li><li>How often do you have sex?</li><li>How many sex partners do you have?</li><li>Does the method protect against STDs?</li><li>How well does the method work?</li><li>Are there any side effects?</li><li>Will you be able to use it correctly every time?</li></ul>How does birth control work? It depends on the type of birth control you use. Here are some of the most common methods of birth control. Abstinence Abstinence means that you don’t have vaginal, anal, or oral sex. This is the only sure way to prevent pregnancy. It’s also the best way to protect yourself from STDs. Barrier methods Barrier methods work by preventing the sperm and egg from touching each other. Common barrier methods include: <ul ><li>Male condoms (worn on the penis)</li> <li>Female condoms (placed on the outside and inside of the vagina)</li> <li>Birth control diaphragm (placed inside the vagina)</li></ul>Intrauterine devices (IUDs) An IUD is a T-shaped piece of plastic with copper or hormone medicine. It’s put inside the woman’s uterus by a doctor or nurse. An IUD with hormones is sometimes called an IUS (intrauterine system).The IUD is very effective at preventing pregnancy, and some kinds can last for 5 to 10 years. The woman and her male partner shouldn’t be able to feel the IUD when it’s in place.Hormonal methods These methods work by preventing a woman’s ovaries from releasing an egg each month. Examples include:<ul ><li>Birth control pills</li><li>Patch (put on the skin)</li><li>3-month shot</li><li>IUD (intrauterine device) with hormones</li><li>Implant (tiny tube put under the skin)</li><li>Ring (put in the vagina)<ul></ul></li></ul>Natural family planning (NFP) NFP works by learning when the woman is more likely to get pregnant. People who want to prevent pregnancy don’t have sex on these days or use another method of birth control.Couples can also use NFP when they want to get pregnant. <a href="http://www.hhs.gov/opa/reproductive-health/contraception/natural-family-planning/">Find out more about natural family planning</a>.Emergency contraception pill (ECP or “the morning after pill”) Sometimes people forget to use birth control (they miss a pill or shot) or their birth control fails (the condom breaks). ECP should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex, or within 72 hours. It may work up to 5 days after sex.ECP won’t stop a pregnancy that has already happened.Sterilization Sterilization is a permanent method of birth control. This is an option for people who are totally sure they don’t want any more children.<ul ><li>In men, this means cutting or blocking the tubes that carry sperm to the outside of the body. This is called a vasectomy (“vah-SEK-tah-mee”).</li><li>In women, this means cutting or blocking the tubes that carry eggs into the uterus. This is called tubal (“TOO-buhl”) sterilization.</li></ul>Check out these resources to learn more about the different types of birth control:<ul ><li><a href="http://www.fda.gov/downloads/ForConsumers/ByAudience/ForWomen/FreePublications/UCM282014.pdf" >Birth Control Guide [PDF - 924 KB]</a></li><li><a href="http://www.hhs.gov/opa/reproductive-health/" >Reproductive Health - Contraception </a></li></ul>What types of birth control help prevent STDs? Next to abstinence, using a male condom made of latex (rubber) is the best way to prevent STDs, including HIV.Barrier methods used inside the vagina, like the female condom and diaphragm, can also lower the risk of some STDs.Do I need to see a doctor to get birth control? It depends on which birth control method you choose. You can buy some birth control over-the-counter. Over-the-counter means you can buy it at a store without a prescription. For other methods, you will need to see a doctor or nurse.Birth control methods you can get without a prescription include:<ul><li>Male condoms</li><li>Female condoms</li><li>Emergency contraception pills (girls younger than age 17 need a prescription)</li></ul>Birth control methods you can get only from a doctor or nurse include:<ul><li>Birth control pills</li><li>Patch</li><li>Diaphragm</li><li>3-month shot</li><li>IUD (intrauterine device)</li><li>Implant </li><li>Ring </li></ul>You need surgery or a medical procedure for:<ul><li>Sterilization (for both women and men)</li></ul>

Take Action! Make an appointment to talk with a doctor or nurse about your birth control options. Follow these steps to choose the right birth control for you.Talk to a nurse, doctor, or family planning educator. Ask about the types of birth control that are available to you. Your age and overall health can affect your choice.<a href="https://www.plannedparenthood.org/all-access/my-method-26542.htm" >Answer these questions to get birth control recommendations</a>. What about cost? The <a href="http://www.healthcare.gov/law/features/rights/preventive-care/index.html" >Affordable Care Act</a>, the health care reform law passed in 2010, covers some methods of birth control for women. It also covers patient education and counseling about birth control for women.Depending on your insurance plan, you may be able to get these services at no cost to you. Talk to your insurance company to find out what this means for you.<a href="http://www.healthcare.gov/news/factsheets/2010/07/preventive-services-list.html" >For information about other services covered by the Affordable Care Act, visit HealthCare.gov</a>.Find free or low-cost services near you. If you don’t have insurance, or if your insurance doesn’t cover birth control, you may still be able to get free or low-cost birth control through a family planning clinic or community health center.Family planning clinics provide education, counseling, and medical services (including birth control). No one is turned away for not being able to pay. To find services near you:<ul ><li><a href="https://opa-fpclinics.icfwebservices.com/" >Use this family planning clinic locator</a>. </li><li>Text your ZIP code to FINDFPCLINIC (346337254642). </li><li><a href="http://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov/Search_HCC.aspx" >Find a local health center</a>.</li></ul>Talk to your sex partner. Some types of birth control are used by men, and some types are used by women. You will both need to be comfortable with the method you choose.When you both understand how a method works, it will be easier to use the method correctly.Understand the instructions. Birth control only works if you use it correctly every time. Be sure you understand what you’ll need to do to protect yourself from an unplanned pregnancy or an STD. If you have questions, talk to a doctor or pharmacist.<a href="http://www.cdc.gov/condomeffectiveness/brief.html#Condom" >Get tips on how to use a condom correctly to help prevent STDs</a>.<a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=32">Get tested for STDs</a>. The only way to know for sure if you have a sexually transmitted disease is to get tested. If you think you may be at risk, talk to your doctor about getting tested.To find a place to get tested:<ul ><li><a href="http://hivtest.cdc.gov/STDTesting.aspx" >Enter your ZIP code to find an STD clinic</a>.</li><li>Call 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636).</li></ul><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTool.aspx?toolId=17">Use these conversation starters to talk with your partner about getting tested, too</a>.<a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=49">Get tested for HIV</a>. Just like other STDs, the only way to know if you have HIV is to get tested. <a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTool.aspx?toolId=28">Take this list of questions about HIV testing</a> to your next checkup.You can get tested at a doctor’s office or health center. To find a testing center:<ul ><li><a href="http://hivtest.cdc.gov/Default.aspx" >Use this testing center locator</a>.</li><li>Text your ZIP code to Knowit (566948).</li><li>Call 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636).</li></ul>

Start Today: Small Steps <ul><li><a href="http://cms.ashastd.org/std-sti-works/condoms/talking-with-a-partner-about-condoms.html">Get tips to talk to your partner about using a condom</a>. </li><li><a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/birth-control-options/MY01084/METHOD=print">Read this overview of things to consider about birth control options</a>. </li><li><a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/tutorials/vasectomy/htm/index.htm">Watch this short presentation on vasectomies</a>.</li></ul>

The Basics Well-woman visits include a full checkup, separate from any other visit for sickness or injury. These visits focus on preventive care for women. Schedule your well-woman visit with a doctor or nurse every year. The well-woman visit is a great tool to help you stay healthy.Well-woman visits include a full checkup, separate from any other visit for sickness or injury. These visits focus on preventive care for women, which may include:<ul ><li>Services, like shots, that improve your health by preventing diseases and other health problems</li><li>Screenings, which are medical tests to check for diseases early when they may be easier to treat</li><li>Education to help you make health decisions</li></ul><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=20">Find out more about screenings</a>.What happens during a well-woman visit? Your well-woman visit is a chance to focus on your overall health and wellness. There are 3 main goals for the visit:<ol><li>Documenting your health habits and history</li><li>Getting a physical exam</li><li>Setting health goals</li></ol>Health habits and history Before your visit, the doctor or nurse will ask you to answer some questions about your overall health. These questions may cover topics like your:<ul ><li>Medical history</li><li>Family’s health history</li><li>Relationships and sexual partners</li><li>Eating habits and physical activity</li><li>Use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs</li><li>Mental health history, including depression</li></ul>Physical exam The doctor or nurse will do a physical exam, which usually includes:<ul ><li>Measuring your height and weight</li><li>Checking your blood pressure</li><li>Doing a breast exam</li><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=13">Doing a Pap test and pelvic exam</a></li></ul>Health goals You and the doctor or nurse will talk about the next steps for helping you stay healthy. Together, you can decide which screenings or follow-up services are right for you.If you have health goals, like losing weight or quitting smoking, you and your doctor or nurse can make a plan to help you meet these goals.How often do I need a well-woman visit? It’s a good idea to get a well-woman visit once a year. Depending on the screenings or other services you need, it may take more than 1 visit.For example, the doctor or nurse may ask you to come in for a follow-up visit to discuss the results of a screening. Or you may need a separate appointment to get a specific service.

Take Action! Make a list of questions for your doctor or nurse. Take these steps to make sure you get the most out of your well-woman visit.Know your family health history. The health history of your family is an important part of your personal health record. <a href="https://familyhistory.hhs.gov/fhh-web/home.action" >Use this family health history tool</a> to keep track of conditions that run in your family. Take this information to your well-woman visit.Make a list of questions for your doctor. This visit is a great time to ask the doctor or nurse any questions related to:<ul ><li>Birth control</li><li>Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)</li><li>Preparing to get pregnant</li><li>Eating healthy foods</li><li>Getting more active</li><li>Your safety and relationships</li><li>Anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues</li></ul>Some important questions include:<ul ><li>Do I need any important shots?</li><li>How can I protect myself from HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?</li><li>How can I get more physical activity?</li><li>Which form of birth control is right for me?</li><li>How do I know if my relationship is healthy and safe?</li><li>Where can I get help for a mental health issue?</li></ul>Take a notepad and write down the answers so you remember them later.Talk with your doctor about which screenings you need. Getting screening tests is one of the most important things you can do for your health. At your well-woman visit, the doctor may recommend screening you for:<ul ><li>Certain types of cancer</li><li>HPV (human papillomavirus, which can lead to <a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=13">cervical cancer</a>)</li><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=49">HIV</a> and other <a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=32"> sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)</a></li><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=11">High blood pressure</a> and <a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=14">cholesterol</a></li><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=73">Diabetes</a></li><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=12">Osteoporosis (weak bones)</a></li><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=33">Depression</a></li><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=97">Domestic violence</a></li></ul>In addition to screenings, the doctor may sometimes recommend counseling.<a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics//myhealthfinder/">Use the myhealthfinder tool to find out which screening tests you may need</a>.What about cost? The <a href="http://www.healthcare.gov/law/features/rights/preventive-care/index.html" >Affordable Care Act</a>, the health care reform law passed in 2010, covers your well-woman visit. It also covers many other services, like some screenings and types of counseling.Depending on your insurance, you may be able to get well-woman visits and related services at no cost to you.<a href="http://www.healthcare.gov/news/factsheets/2010/07/preventive-services-list.html#CoveredPreventiveServicesforWomenIncludingPregnantWomen " >Find out which services for women are covered by the Affordable Care Act</a>.Follow up with the doctor after your visit. During your well-woman visit, the doctor or nurse may recommend that you see a specialist or get certain screenings. Try to schedule these follow-up appointments before you leave the doctor’s office.If that’s not possible, make a reminder note on your calendar to schedule your follow-up appointments.<a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=78">Get more tips on taking an active role in your health care</a>.Take steps to stay healthy all year. There are things you can do every day to stay healthy. Get tips on:<ul ><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=22">Getting active</a></li><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=21">Eating healthy</a></li><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=45">Managing stress</a></li><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=24">Quitting smoking</a></li><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=25">Watching your weight</a></li><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=68">Getting enough sleep</a></li></ul>

Start Today: Small Steps <ul><li><a href="http://www.ahrq.gov/apps/qb/" >Use this tool to make a list of questions for your doctor</a>.</li><li>Schedule your well-woman visit today.</li><li><a href="https://familyhistory.hhs.gov/fhh-web/home.action">Use this tool to track your family’s medical history</a>.</li></ul>

Start Today: Small Steps <ul><li><a href="http://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/RiskAssessment/">Use this tool to see if you are at risk for hepatitis</a>.</li><li>Check with your doctor to see if you’ve had the Hepatitis B vaccine.</li><li><a href="http://www.vaccines.gov/travel/index.html">Find out if you need any vaccines before you travel</a>.</li></ul>