STD Testing and Treatment

Aside from colds and the flu, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are some of the most widespread infections in the world. As a woman, undetected sexually transmitted diseases pose a serious risk to your reproductive health.  To protect yourself from complications caused by STDs, you should schedule an appointment with your physician at Louisiana Women’s Healthcare once a year.

What is a sexually transmitted disease (STD)?

STDs are infections that are spread from one person to another, usually during vaginal, anal, and oral sex.  Most STDs are preventable and curable

What are some of the most common STDs in women?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common STD in women. It’s also the main cause of cervical cancer.

Other common STDs include:

  • Chlamydia
  • Gonorrhea
  • Trichomoniasis (pubic lice)
  • HIV
  • Genital warts
  • Genital herpes
  • Hepatitis

How do I know if I have an STD?

If you’re worried you’ve contracted an STD, symptoms in women aren’t always obvious. Many women with sexually transmitted diseases don’t see or feel any symptoms at all. 

Common STD symptoms in women:

  • Discharge (thick or thin, milky white, yellow, or green leakage from the vagina)
  • Vaginal itching
  • Vaginal blisters or blisters in the genital area (the region covered by underwear)
  • Vaginal rash or rash in the genital area
  • Painful or burning urination

Can STDs have long-term effects on my health?

STD infections can go unnoticed and untreated, which can cause long-lasting or even irreversible health problems like pelvic inflammatory disease, which can result in infertility and ectopic pregnancy.  Women who are pregnant can also pass STDs to their babies.

Why is STD testing so important?

STD testing is especially beneficial as part of your preventive care to protect your reproductive health and general health. According to the CDC, women are uniquely vulnerable to serious consequences of STDs. It can be harder for women to see symptoms because complications may occur inside the vagina where they aren’t easily visible. Even if you are not exhibiting outward symptoms, such as open wounds or visible warts, you can unknowingly infect your sexual partners with STDs.

STD testing in Baton Rouge, Louisiana

If you think you have contracted an STD it is important that you inform your partner and to seek care from a doctor.  The physicians of Louisiana Women’s Healthcare offers comprehensive testing to detect a range of common STDs. You can also help keep your reproductive system in excellent health by being proactive with yearly STD testing for women. STD testing is safe, efficient, and can be performed quickly and conveniently in our office.  Schedule an appointment online, through MyOchsner, or by phone (225) 201-2010.

New Patients

If you are a first-time patient of Louisiana Women’s Healthcare, please follow the instructions below to schedule an appointment with your preferred LWH physician. 

  • To view appointment availability for all LWH physicians who are currently accepting NEW patients, click the  “Show more appointment times” button.  
  • To search for a specific LWH physician and/or preferred appointment date, click “Filters” or “Edit” to further customize your search. 
  • If you do not see your preferred physician or appointment time, please call 225.201.2010 for personalized assistance.