It doesn’t hurt to get tested for STDs in most cases. The vast majority of tests are simple, easy procedures — giving a urine sample, getting a little blood draw or undergoing a gentle swab. You may experience momentary discomfort (with a needle prick or swab pressure), but the procedure is generally simple and well tolerated. The advantages of early testing more than outweigh the brief discomfort, considering that untreated infections can lead to serious health problems and be passed on to partners.
At Sahara West Urgent Care, we offer discreet, quick and caring STD testing services In Las Vegas to ensure a smooth process in the most convenient way.
What It’s Like to Get Tested for an STD
Urine Test
- What happens: You provide a small urine sample in a private restroom.
- Comfort level: Completely painless.
- For: Chlamydia, gonorrhea and other conditions.
Blood Test
- What happens: A small needle is used to take blood from your arm.
- Sensation: A brief pinch or mild pressure for a few seconds.
- Used for: H.I.V., syphilis, hepatitis B and C, occasionally herpes.
Swab Test
- What it’s for: A tender swab is used to collect the sample. From the infected area (throat, vagina, cervix, rectum or urethra).
- Discomfort level: Generally mild pressure or a brief discomfort; not painful for most people.
- For: Gonorrhea, chlamydia, HPV and other infections.
Physical Exam (If Needed)
- What it looks like: The provider might also conduct an external examination for obvious injury, discharge (any odor also should be tested) or rash.
- Level of pain: Not terribly painful, but if you have sensitive skin. Then it might feel a bit uncomfortable.
Why STD Testing Matters
- Stay healthy: Most STIs have no symptoms but can damage reproductive health if untreated.
- Take care of your mates: Prompt treatment and detection will halt the infection from spreading to others.
- Peace of mind: You have a lot less to fret over and be worry about once you know your status.
At Sahara West Urgent Care, we offer confidential and non-judgmental testing along with fast results, easy next steps.
How to Take a Test Without Getting Bored or Distracted
- Communicate: If you are anxious or especially sensitive in pain, tell the provider.
- Relax: You may look the other way or try deep breathing as your blood is drawn.
- Ask questions: A little knowledge can be an anxiety buffer.
For many, it is surprisingly fast and easy.
Why Sahara West Urgent Care
- Private and discreet: Your privacy is always assured.
- Turnaround time: Same-day service offered when you walk-in or go online to book for quick testing.
- High Variety: Urine, blood or swab testing for numerous types of infections.
- Expert care: Our providers interpret the results and can initiate treatment, when appropriate.
We care about your comfort, security and tranquility in the process.
When to Get Tested
You should get tested for STDs if you:
- Have a new sexual partner.
- Pay attention to symptoms such as discharge abnormalities, sores, a burning sensation or itching.
- Have not been tested in more than a year and are sexually active.
- Thought you might be exposed.
Testing early is good for your health and leaves the door open to much easier treatment, if it turns out you need it.
Bottom Line
STD testing is low-risk, fast and usually hurts very little.
For most, the experience is mildly uncomfortable — if it’s even that. They walk away feeling reassured and informed.
For private, same day std testing in Las Vegas, and convenient to, visit Sahara West Urgent Care.
Come in today, or schedule an appointment online and take control of your sexual health. To schedule your appointment with the highest standard of care, visit Sahara West Urgent Care on our website, where you can also explore more informative blogs.
