Suspecting you have an STD can feel scary. Unfortunately, it’s not something you can ignore.
You can overcome your fear by finding the best STD doctor in College Park, Maryland. Here’s how and why you need a women’s health specialist.
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Gather a List of Names
If you have health insurance, you might want to first ask for a list of in-network providers so you don’t have to worry about unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.
You might want to ask your primary care provider for recommendations. If you are close to someone who has had an STD and feel comfortable talking to them, ask about their experience and who they recommend. Don’t limit yourself to just one option. It’s good to have choices.
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Once You Have a List, Do Your Research
Take the time to verify the credentials of every healthcare provider on our list. You want to find out about their education, training, and experience treating STDs. Make phone calls to learn more information about the practice, and have a list of questions to ask to ask prepared before you call.
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Read Online Reviews
People tend to be really honest when giving reviews, so make sure you take time to read about the experiences of other patients. You’ll learn a lot from this information. Look at multiple review sites to get a good indication of what it’s like to be a patient of the provider you’re researching.
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Meet the STD Doctor
Finding the best STD doctor in College Park, Maryland isn’t just about finding one with experience. Discussing reproductive issues is difficult for some people, so it’s important you find a doctor with which you feel comfortable speaking openly.
Don’t feel compelled to stay with a doctor you are not comfortable with. Never feel guilty or nervous about saying you need to find a new doctor either. They’ll understand.
What Happens If I Leave a Sexually Transmitted Infection / Disease Untreated?
Sometimes, sexually transmitted infections sometimes have no symptoms. If you’re sexually active, your overall health depends on regular testing. If you are experiencing unusual symptoms and leave them untreated, it could potentially cause serious health issues.
Depending on the STD, there are some that can cause blindness, infertility, and even certain cancers. There is also the risk of passing an STD to a baby during birth.
What STDs Show Symptoms, and What Are They?
There are four STDs that may show symptoms: chlamydia, trichomoniasis, syphilis, and gonorrhea. At this time, these are considered curable infections. Common symptoms are painful urination, vaginal discharge, genital ulcers, urethral discharge in men, and abdominal pain.
How Often Should I Get Tested for STDs?
If you are sexually active, it is recommended you get tested at least once a year. Many patients choose to get tested for HIV, gonorrhea, and chlamydia during each screening.
If you’re pregnant, you should be tested for syphilis, HIV, hepatitis B, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and hepatitis C early in your pregnancy. Treatment is crucial to avoid passing an STD to your baby.
If you’re unsure exactly what you should be tested for, be sure to have a conversation with your STD doctor. Having regular tests is an excellent way to take control of your health.
Where Can I Find the Best STD Doctor in College Park, Maryland?
For the highest quality personalized healthcare, choose Women HealthCare Specialists. Our healthcare team realizes each woman has unique needs, and we understand it can be difficult to discuss sexual health. With us, you’ll be treated with the utmost respect and dignity.
If you suspect you have an STD, wish to get tested, or have questions, we encourage you to contact us at 301-812-3400 as soon as possible. We’re happy to help!
