STI (STD) Screening in Wellesley, MA | Brigham Wellesley OB/GYN Associates
Talking about sexual health can feel shameful, awkward, and uncomfortable, but it shouldn’t. It’s a normal part of nearly everyone’s everyday life, and it deserves attention to maintain a healthy lifestyle. At Brigham Wellesley OB/GYN Associates, we believe STI screening is simply another part of taking care of yourself, and no different from having your blood pressure checked or having a flu shot. Whether you’re starting a new relationship, checking in on your health, or noticing something that doesn’t feel right, our team is here to answer your questions honestly and without judgment.
Many sexually transmitted infections cause no noticeable symptoms at all, which means the only way to truly know where you stand is to get tested. Left unaddressed, some infections can be passed to a partner or lead to more serious complications down the road, including fertility issues. Getting screened is a small step that protects your health, your partner’s health, and your peace of mind.
To schedule your screening in Wellesley, call (781) 235-4000 or request an appointment online. Confidential, compassionate care starts with a conversation.
What Are STIs/STDs?
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), also called sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), are infections passed from one person to another through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Some can also spread through skin-to-skin contact alone, like with kissing. STIs are caused by bacteria, parasites, or viruses, and each type behaves a little differently in the body. Some are easily cured with medication, while others are chronic conditions that require ongoing management.
STIs are far more common than many people realize, and having one carries no reflection on a person’s character or choices. Anyone who is sexually active can be exposed, regardless of their age, relationship status, or how careful they’ve been in the past. What matters most is catching an infection early, since prompt diagnosis makes treatment simpler and helps prevent complications or spreading to a partner.
What Are the Common Types of STIs/STDs?
Chlamydia
One of the most frequently diagnosed bacterial STIs, chlamydia often causes no symptoms but can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease and fertility issues if left untreated. It’s typically cleared with a course of antibiotics.
Gonorrhea
Another common bacterial infection, gonorrhea can affect the cervix, urethra, throat, or rectum. Symptoms, when present, may include unusual discharge or pain while urinating.
Syphilis
Syphilis is another form of bacterial infection that progresses in stages, starting with a painless sore that can easily go unnoticed. Left untreated, it can eventually affect the heart, brain, and nervous system, so early detection and antibiotic treatment are important.
Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is commonly caused by a small parasite. This infection can produce itching, discharge, or discomfort during urination, though many people have no symptoms at all. Regular screenings are essential to detect this form of STI.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
HPV is extremely common and often clears on its own, but certain strains can lead to genital warts or increase the risk of cervical cancer. Regular Pap testing helps monitor cervical health, and a vaccine is available for prevention.
Genital Herpes
Genital herpes is commonly caused by the herpes simplex virus. This infection can cause recurring sores or go unnoticed entirely. While there’s no cure, antiviral medication can reduce outbreaks and lower the risk of transmission.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is another viral infection that can affect the liver and can range from a short-term illness to a lifelong condition. A vaccine offers strong protection, and antiviral treatment can help manage chronic cases.
HIV
HIV affects the immune system and requires lifelong management, but with modern antiretroviral treatment, most people with HIV live long, healthy lives. Early diagnosis makes a significant difference in long-term outcomes.
When to Get Tested for an STI
Getting tested for each type of STI during your annual visit is not necessary in most cases. Patients should speak with their doctor about their specific risk factors and lifestyle so that they can determine which tests are right for them.
You may want to consider testing if any of the following apply to you:
- You have a new partner. Anyone who is sexually active benefits from periodic screening, and starting a new relationship is a natural time to check in.
- You’re not using protection. Unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex raises your risk of exposure, even without symptoms present.
- Your circumstances put you at higher risk. Having multiple partners, using IV drugs, or having a partner with these risk factors may mean more frequent screening is worth pursuing.
- Something feels off. Any new or unusual symptom is worth having evaluated, even if it seems minor.
Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
STIs don’t always announce themselves clearly, and some produce no symptoms at all. Still, it’s worth scheduling a visit if you notice:
- Burning or discomfort when urinating
- Needing to urinate more often than usual
- Pain during sex
- Sores, bumps, or blisters near the genitals or anus
- Persistent itching or irritation
- Discharge that looks or smells different than normal
- Fever or flu-like symptoms with no clear cause
Understanding Your Treatment Options
If your results come back positive, our care team at Brigham Wellesley will walk you through exactly what it means and what comes next. Treatment will depend on the type of infection we detect through our screenings, including:
- Bacterial infections, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, typically clear up with a course of antibiotics.
- Parasitic infections, such as trichomoniasis, are treatable with antiparasitic or antibiotic medication.
- Viral infections including HPV, herpes, hepatitis B, and HIV aren’t curable, but they are manageable. Your provider will help you build a plan to control symptoms and protect your long-term health.
Whatever your results show, you’ll never navigate them alone. Our providers focus on clear information and a treatment plan that fits your life, not just your diagnosis.
Why Choose Brigham Wellesley OB/GYN Associates?
For several decades, patients across the Wellesley area have trusted our practice for compassionate, expert women’s health care, and that legacy carries into every conversation we have about your sexual health and overall well-being. We know that discussing STI testing can feel vulnerable, which is why our providers approach every visit with discretion, compassion, and zero judgment.
Our team believes testing and treatment should never feel clinical or rushed. You’ll have the time you need to ask questions, voice concerns, and fully understand your results and options. From your very first phone call to your follow-up care, we’re focused on treating you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis, so you can leave every visit feeling informed, respected, and genuinely cared for.
Schedule Your STI Screening at Brigham Wellesley OB/GYN Associates in Wellesley, MA
You deserve care that treats this conversation like any other part of your health, with respect, discretion, and zero judgment. The team at Brigham Wellesley OB/GYN Associates is here to help you get answers and take the next step toward your sexual and reproductive health with confidence.
Call (781) 235-4000 for our Wellesley office, or request an appointment online today.
STI Screening FAQs
How often should I get tested for STIs?
It depends on your individual risk factors. Patients with a single, mutually monogamous partner may only need occasional testing, while those with new or multiple partners are often advised to test more frequently. Your provider can recommend a schedule that fits best for you and your lifestyle.
Can I get tested if I don’t have symptoms?
Yes, and in fact, many people with STIs never show symptoms. Our screenings are based on risk factors, rather than symptoms alone. Regular screening is the most reliable way to catch an infection early.
Will my results be kept confidential?
Absolutely. Your privacy is protected, and your results are shared only with you and your care team. It’s completely in your hands who you choose to share the information with.
Does a Pap smear test for STIs?
No. A Pap smear screens for abnormal cervical cells, not sexually transmitted infections. STI testing requires separate, specific tests based on your risk factors.
What happens if I test positive for an STI?
Your provider will explain your results in plain language, discuss treatment options, and answer any questions you have about next steps, including how to talk with a partner if needed.