STI Testing & In-Person Care
Some STIs cause symptoms such as burning, discharge, itching, sores, or pain. Others cause no symptoms at all.
How Are STIs Tested?
The right test depends on the infection and where the sexual exposure occurred.
Testing may include:
- Urine testing
- Vaginal or genital swabs
- Throat swabs after oral exposure
- Rectal swabs after anal exposure
- Blood testing for infections such as HIV and syphilis
- Testing of genital sores or lesions when appropriate
When Should You Test After an Exposure?
Different infections become detectable at different times. A negative result soon after exposure may be too early to rule out an STI. The right timing for repeat testing depends on the infection, the test, your symptoms, and the date of exposure.
Burning When You Pee Does Not Always Mean a UTI
Burning during urination can occur with an STI, urethritis, or a urinary tract infection.
If you recently had a sexual exposure, STI testing may be important even if your symptoms feel like a UTI.
STI Testing and In-Person Care at ALC Diagnostics
ALC Diagnostics provides confidential STI laboratory testing and in-person clinical care.
If you have symptoms, a recent sexual exposure, or a positive STI result, you can schedule an in-person appointment with Dr. Syed Haque to review your situation and discuss the appropriate next step.
During your visit, your provider can:
- Review your ALC Diagnostics laboratory results
- Review your symptoms and exposure history
- Review allergies, medications, and relevant medical history
- Recommend appropriate care
- Provide treatment for eligible STIs
- Discuss follow-up testing when needed
Ready to See a Provider?
Book an In-Person Appointment with Dr. Syed Haque →
Appointments for this service are in person at ALC Diagnostics.
Self-Pay or Insurance
Self-pay options are available, and eligible insurance plans are accepted. Testing and provider visits may have different network participation and coverage.
When Should You Go Directly to the Emergency Room?
Most STI symptoms can be evaluated during an in-person clinic visit.
Go directly to an emergency department or call 911 when appropriate if you have:
- Sudden or severe testicular pain
- Severe or rapidly worsening abdominal or pelvic pain
- Fainting, confusion, or difficulty staying awake
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe weakness or signs of serious illness
- Persistent vomiting with inability to keep fluids down
- Heavy or uncontrolled bleeding
- Sudden inability to urinate
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat or another severe allergic reaction
- Any symptom that appears immediately life-threatening
Do not wait for your STI test result or clinic appointment if you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency.
Get Tested. Know Your Status. Get the Right Care.
Many STIs cause no symptoms, but untreated infections can sometimes lead to serious complications.
Get tested at ALC Diagnostics. Clinical evaluation is available for symptoms or recent exposure, and treatment for eligible STIs is offered when medically appropriate.
This information is for general educational purposes and does not replace evaluation by a healthcare professional.