testing & screening
Testing & Screenings
Comprehensive and Extensive Testing For Your Whole Health
At MORE901 in Memphis, Susan Lacy, MD, FACOG, and our team provide comprehensive women’s lab tests designed to support your overall wellness and reproductive health. Your visit may include a Pap smear, HPV testing, breast exam, contraceptive counseling, hormone and menopause discussions, STI testing, and personalized recommendations based on your age, medical history, symptoms, and risk factors. We take time to listen, answer questions, and ensure you feel informed and comfortable throughout your care experience.
Protecting your long-term health through prevention and early detection is one of the most important parts of health care. We believe patients deserve clear guidance, compassionate support, and personalized care! We break down the different types of tests into two major categories: swabs and bloodwork.
Women's lab tests - swabs
Cervical cancer screenings
One of the most important women’s lab tests to get regularly is a screening for cervical cancer. These tests are designed to find abnormal or precancerous cervical cell changes in their early stages, when treatment can either prevent cancer from developing or be more likely to be effective against cervical cancer. The two main ways to screen for it are the Pap smear and HPV test.
what does cervical cancer screening include?
Pap Smear
What is a pap smear?
A Pap smear is a quick and straightforward procedure that checks for abnormal cells on your cervix. The test is relatively painless, although some patients may experience slight discomfort or find the whole process mentally uncomfortable. Dr. Lacy has been performing Pap smears for over two decades and is not only gentle but does her best to help you feel as comfortable as possible throughout your exam.
While you lie on your back with your feet in stirrups, Dr. Lacy places a speculum into your vagina to hold it open. Then, she uses a slender device that looks like a mascara brush to gently collect cells from your cervix. As soon as she completes the procedure and puts the cell sample into sterile packaging for testing, she removes the speculum. The whole process takes less than five minutes.
How often do I need to have a pap smear?
You should start to have Pap smears when you turn 21 or become sexually active. In general, women aged 21-65 should have Pap smears every three years. If you’re over the age of 30, Dr. Lacy might recommend having a combined Pap smear and HPV test every five years.
However, if you’ve had abnormal Pap smears in the past or have an elevated risk of cervical cancer, Dr. Lacy might recommend more frequent testing.
What happens if my Pap smear has abnormal results?
If you have abnormal Pap smear results, don’t panic. Often, when a Pap smear has abnormal results it’s because the technician wasn’t able to analyze the sample properly and the results are inconclusive.
If you have abnormal results, Dr. Lacy will develop a treatment plan for you. This may require having another pap smear in the next 3 to 6 months or having a more comprehensive evaluation. In some cases, Dr. Lacy might recommend a colposcopy. A colposcope is a type of microscope that allows her to examine your cervix in more detail.
During a colposcopy, you recline as you do for a Pap smear and Dr. Lacy places a speculum in your vagina to hold it open. She brushes a solution over your cervix that makes abnormal cells look white and stand out against the healthy tissue. The colposcope stays outside of your body, and Dr. Lacy looks through it for a magnified view of your cervix. If necessary, she can take a biopsy of your cervical cells for further testing.
If you do have precancerous or cancerous cells, in most cases Dr. Lacy can remove them with a loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP).
HPV test
What is HPV?
HPV is the acronym for the Human Paillomavirus. It is the most common viral STI in the United States, and almost all sexually active people will be infected at some point, even if they don’t know it. Some strains of HPV are high-risk and can lead to cancers, like cervical, vulvar and vaginal cancers. Early detection and treatment of precancerous cells can usually prevent this from happening.
HPV doesn’t usually present with symptoms. When symptoms do occur, the most common sign of the virus is warts in your genital area. They may also appear like skin tags. They may appear weeks, months or even years after you’ve been infected with low-risk HPV. All forms of HPV are contagious, and you’re contagious for as long as you have the virus — regardless of whether or not you have symptoms.
How do you test for HPV?
During your pelvic exam, Dr. Lacy will insert a device called a speculum into your vagina to hold it open. She then use a small plastic spatula to collect cells from your cervix. This is typically done while you’re also getting a Pap smear, but can be done as a solo test as well. While slightly uncomfortable, the process is relatively pain free and takes less than five minutes.
Once the sample is collected, it is placed into sterile packaging and sent off to our lab partner to be tested.
Isn't there a vaccine for HPV?
There are vaccines to help protect you from getting HPV, typically given in a series of 2-3 doses spaced out over time. However, the vaccine is most effective when received before you are exposed to HPV. Since most adults are sexually active and have likely already been exposed to it, the vaccine is primarily recommended for all preteens and adolescents, regardless of gender.
For anyone over the age of 26, Dr. Lacy can talk with you about if the vaccine is still right for you. It is not suitable for anyone over age 45.
What happens if I'm HPV positive?
First things first, don’t panic. An HPV positive test does not mean that you have or will get you have cancer. Overall, the outlook for HPV is generally good. While there isn’t a cure, most people’s immune systems are incredibly efficient at getting rid of the virus for them. Most HPV infections (about 90%) are cleared within a year or two.
Certain strains are more likely to lead to cancer, but Dr. Lacy will monitor your strain if necessary and recommend further testing or treatment. Early detection of high-risk strains is critical, so be sure you are getting regular checkups!
STI Screenings
Sexually transmitted infection screening recommendations vary by age, gender assigned at birth, and individual risk factors. Routine testing is typically focused on sexually active people, pregnant women, and those who are known to be higher risk. At MORE 901, the STI swab tests most commonly performed are for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Trichomoniasis.
In general, you should get tested for these Chlamydia and Gonorrhea annually if you are a sexually active person with a cervix under 25 years old or a man who has sex with men. Women ages 25 and up should be screened if you have new or multiple sexual partners or inconsistent condom use. For Trichomoniasis, its recommended that people with female reproductive organs who are HIV+ or considered high risk be tested annually.
what does sti screening include?
Chlamydia
What is Chlamydia?
Chlamydia is one of the most common STIs caused by bacteria known as Chlamydia trachomatis. It is spread through unprotected oral, vaginal, or anal sex, or by sharing sex toys with other people. Anyone who is sexually active can get chlamydia, and if you have it while pregnant you can pass it on to your newborn. However, things like age, sex, and race may increase your chances of getting it. People who are more at risk for chlamydia are:
- Young people ages 15-24 (more than half of all diagnosed cases in the US occur within this age group)
- Men who have sex with men
- Non-Hispanic Black populations
Chlamydia is sometimes referred to as a “silent infection” because the vast majority of people never notice any symptoms. That’s why its so important to get regular testing done if you are at a higher risk or have multiple sexual partners.
What are the symptoms of Chlamydia?
Most people with the infection present with no symptoms. However, when symptoms do present, it can be anywhere from one week to three months (or longer, in some cases) after having sex.
The most common symptoms among women are:
- Unusual and/or unpleasant smelling vaginal discharge
- Burning during urination
- Pus in your urine
- Pain during or after sexual intercourse
- Abnormal bleeding between periods
- Itching or burning in and around the vagina
The most common symptoms among men are:
- Burning or pain during urination
- Mucus-like or clear, watery discharge from your penis
- Pain or swelling in the testicles
What if I test positive for Chlamydia?
If when you access your lab results through the patient portal and you see the word “Detected” under “Chlamydia,” its understandable to be scared or anxious. The good news is that if you test positive it is easily treatable with prescription antibiotics. Most presented symptoms should clear up within a week or so of starting your prescribed medicine, but be sure to take all of the medication as prescribed, even if your symptoms improve. It’s also recommended to get tested for other STIs such as Gonorrhea, Trichomoniasis, etc, as it can be common to have multiple STIs, and its important to receive treatment tailored to each infection.
To make sure Chlamydia doesn’t reoccur, you should abstain from all sexual activity until you are cleared. Be sure to let any and all sexual partners from within the last three months that you are positive so that they can get tested too, and do not engage in any sexual activity with them until they have also gotten treatment.
You should never leave Chlamydia to go away on its own. Left untreated, it can lead to Pelvic inflammatory disease, pregnancy complications, infertility, and Epididymitis in men. It can also spread to your bloodstream, which can increase your risk of reactive arthritis and your chances of contracting HIV. This is why regular testing is important, so we can catch it and treat it as early as possible.
How can I protect myself from contracting Chlamydia?
Abstinence from all forms of sexual activity is the only 100% way to avoid contracting Chlamydia. If you are sexually active, however, these safe sex practices can help lower your chances of getting the infection:
- Practice monogamous sex- only engage with one partner who only has sex with you.
- Use condoms during oral, vaginal, and anal sex.
- Don’t share sex toys, but if you do be sure to wash them after each use and cover toys used for penetration with a condom.
- Use dental damns during oral sex or vagina-to-vagina contact.
Gonorrhea
What is Gonorrhea?
Gonorrhea, or “the clap,” is another common bacterial STI caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It is the second most common bacterial STI, just behind Chlamydia. It is spread through unprotected oral, vaginal, or anal sex, sharing sex toys, and can be passed from a mother to her baby during childbirth. Much like Chlamydia, about half of all diagnosed cases occur in young people ages 15-24.
It is extremely easy to infect partners accidentally, as it more often than not does not present with symptoms. If you believe you might have contracted the infection, or if a recent sexual partner has told you that they have tested positive, be sure to schedule your appointment as soon as possible.
What are the symptoms of Gonorrhea?
Gonorrhea often does not present with symptoms, especially in women. Men are more likely to experience symptoms. When they do appear, it is typically within two to 14 days of contracting the infection.
The most common symptoms in women are:
- Pain while urinating
- Unusual vaginal discharge (white or yellow)
- Pain in your lower abdomen or pelvis
- Pain during sex
- Bleeding between menstrual cycles
The most common symptoms in men are:
- Pain or burning while urinating
- White, yellow, or green discharge from your penis
- Testicular pain
- Swollen testicles
While less common, anyone can get gonorrhea infections in their throat (via oral sex) or rectum (via anal sex.) Symptoms may include sore throat, trouble swallowing, and itchiness in your throat, or itching, unusual discharge, or pain while pooping in your rectum.
What if I test positive for Gonorrhea?
If you are positive, you will see the word “Detected” under “Neisseria gonorrhea” when you access your lab results through the patient portal. But do not panic! Gonorrhea is treatable with antibiotics. The infection typically clears up within 7-14 days after treatment begins, and some people like to come in for a second test after that time period to be sure its completely gone. Taking all of the antibiotic(s) as prescribed is especially important with Gonorrhea. Its still curable now, but it is becoming more resistant to medication.
You should avoid all forms of sexual activity for a minimum of seven days to avoid spreading Gonorrhea to others. You can get this infection more than once, so you should always practice safe sex and use condoms, dental dams, and be open with your sexual partners about your sexual history.
To make sure Chlamydia doesn’t reoccur, you should abstain from all sexual activity until you are cleared. Be sure to let any and all sexual partners from within the last three months that you are positive so that they can get tested too, and do not engage in any sexual activity with them until they have also gotten treatment.
You should never leave Gonorrhea to go away on its own. Left untreated, it can lead to serious complications that can affect your joints, liver, heart, and brain. In women, it can spread to the reproductive organs and lead to infertility and ectopic pregnancies, as well cause eye problems that could lead to blindness in infants born to untreated parents. For me, it can cause infertility, prostate pain and inflammation, and scars in your urethra.
How can I protect myself from contracting Gonorhhea?
Abstinence from all forms of sexual activity is the only 100% way to avoid contracting Gonorrhea. If you are sexually active, however, these safe sex practices can help lower your chances of getting the infection:
- Practice monogamous sex- only engage with one partner who only has sex with you.
- Use condoms during oral, vaginal, and anal sex.
- Use dental damns during oral sex or vagina-to-vagina contact.
- Don’t engage in sexual activity with anyone who has an active infection or gonorrhea symptoms.
- Get regular testing done for gonorrhea.
Trichomoniasis
What is Trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis, often called “trich,” is the most common non-viral STI and it caused by a microscopic parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. It is spread through unprotected sex through semen or vaginal fluids. Although very rare, it can also be spread by sharing sex toys or through contact with damp objects like wet towels or toilet seats.
While anyone who is sexually active can contract trich, it is more common in Black women.
What are the symptoms of Trichomoniasis?
Only around 30% of people infected with trich have symptoms, which is one reason it spreads so easily. When symptoms do occur, they tend to appear within 5-28 days after exposure. While its not clear why some people present with symptoms and some don’t, we do know that symptoms are more common in women.
The most common symptoms in people with female sex organs are:
- Pain or discomfort during sex
- Pain or discomfort during urination
- Irritation, soreness, and/or redness around the opening of your vagina
- Thin (sometimes foamy) white, yellow, or green vaginal discharge that has a bad odor
The most common symptoms in people with male sex organs are:
- Pain while urinating
- Burning after ejaculation
- Froth-like discharge from your penis
- Irritation or itching inside your penis
If left untreated, trich increases your risk of becoming infected with HIV should you be exposed to the virus.
What if I test positive for Trichomoniasis?
If you are positive, you will see the word “Detected” under “Trichomoniasis” when you access your lab results through the patient portal. However, the outcome for those who contract trich is good! The infection is treatable with oral antibiotics.
Without treatment, though, trich can last for months or even years. It doesn’t go away on its own, and you can pass the infection to a sexual partner the entire time you’re infected. Therefore, you should abstain from all sexual activity for at least 7 days AFTER finishing your prescribed medication(s). Around 1 in 5 people who get treatment for trich become infected again within 3 months, so it is crucial to finish your antibiotic(s) as prescribed and to wait to have sex for the recommended time period.
How can I protect myself from contracting Trichomoniasis?
If you are sexually active, these safe sex practices can help lower your chances of getting the infection:
- Practice monogamous sex- only engage with one partner who only has sex with you.
- Use condoms during oral, vaginal, and anal sex.
- Get regular STI screenings and let all of your sexual partners know so they can get tested too.
vaginal infection tests
Vaginal infections are incredibly common and are one of the primary reasons women and people with female reproductive organs seek out gynecological help. They are typically caused by bacteria, yeast, or STIs, and because the symptoms of the different kinds of infections often overlap with each other its important to identify the right cause.
what does a vaginal infection test check for?
Bacterial Vaginosis
What is Bacterial Vaginosis?
Bacterial Vaginosis, commonly referred to as “BV,” is a vaginal infection caused by an overgrowth of naturally occurring bacteria which leads to a bacterial imbalance. In basic terms, BV occurs when the “bad” bacteria in your vagina grow too much and overpower the “good” bacteria. While not classified as a STI, it is closely associated with sexual activity.
Anyone with a vagina can get bacterial vaginosis, although it is rare for it to occur in people who have never had sex. It is the most common vaginal problem for women ages 15 to 44.
The risk of contracting BV is higher if you:
- don’t use condoms or dental damns.
- are pregnant.
- have an IUD.
- are Black.
- have multiple sex partners.
- use douches.
- are taking antibiotics.
What are the symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis?
BV is not spread from person to person, but sexual activity can increase your risk of contracting the infection. Many people, up to 84%, do not present with symptoms. The most common symptoms are:
- Burning while urinating
- Unusual vaginal discharge, typically an off-white, gray, or green color
- Fishy-smelling vaginal discharge, especially after sex
BV symptoms can often overlap with other conditions like yeast infections, so its important to get tested if you suspect you might have Bacterial Vaginosis so you can receive the proper treatment.
What if I test positive for Bacterial Vaginosis?
When you access your lab results via the patient portal, you will see either “Not detected” (negative) or “Elevated” (positive) under “Bacterial Vaginosis.” The good news is BV is easy to treat with antibiotics, either orally or in a gel/cream form. Its important to note, however, that over-the-counter creams intended for conditions like a yeast infection DO NOT treat BV and can actually make it worse. You MUST get a prescription from a doctor. Even if you aren’t any symptoms, you should still get treatment if you test positive.
Most of the time, one round of antibiotics clears the infection if taken as prescribed. A small number of people may need an additional round of treatment.
In some cases, BV may resolve on its own without medication. However, if you have symptoms you should seek medical care as having the infection can make you more prone to contracting STIs and can affect pregnancy.
How can I protect myself from contracting Bacterial Vaginosis?
While there isn’t treatment or a vaccine to protect against ever getting BV, there are precautions to reduce the risk:
- Limit your number of sexual partners.
- Use latex condoms or dental dams.
- Avoid douching.
- Avoid vaginal contact with anything that has touched your anus.
- Wear cotton underwear.
Yeast Infection (Candida)
What is a Yeast infection?
A yeast infection is a condition when too much of the fungus Candida is allowed to grow in moist areas. In this context we are talking about vaginal yeast infections, or “vaginal candidiasis,” but it is also possible to get a yeast infection on the skin or orally (commonly known as “thrush.”)
Yeast is a normal part of our bodies ecosystems, but certain conditions can allow it to overgrow. Common causes of vaginal yeast infections are:
- High blood sugar/poorly managed Diabetes- this can weaken your immune system, and the extra sugar in the urine helps yeast grow.
- Taking antibiotics- broad spectrum antibiotics can kill the good bacteria in the vagina, causing an imbalance.
- Being immunocompromised.
- Hormonal changes- anything that disrupts your hormones can also disrupt the balance of yeast and bacteria in your vagina, including birth control, pregnancy, perimenopause, and normal menstrual cycle changes.
- Wearing tight, non-breathable clothing.
- Staying in wet clothes or swim suits for prolonged periods of time.
- Using scented tampons, soaps, and sprays.
Upwards of 80% of people with vaginas will get a yeast infection at least once in their lives and around 50% will get two or more. The most common ages to get a yeast infection are between the ages of puberty and menopause. They aren’t considered contagious, although in rare cases they have been known to pass from one female partner to another with vagina-on-vagina contact.
What are the symptoms of a Yeast infection?
Similar to BV, yeast infection symptoms can present like other vaginal infections.
Common symptoms include:
- Burning during urination
- Itching or burning around your vagina
- Thick, white discharge that resembles cottage cheese
- Pain during sex
- Redness and swelling around your vulva and vagina
- Small cuts or cracks in the skin of your vulva
What if I test positive for a Yeast infection?
You will find your results for a yeast infection swab in your labs in the patient portal under “Candida panel.” If its negative it will show “Not detected,” but it will say “Elevated” if its positive. However, vaginal yeast infections are easily treatable.
Some yeast infections can be treated with over-the-counter medications, but its possible that it might not go away completely or if you aren’t sure if its a yeast infection and it isn’t, you could make it worse. Your best bet is to get tested by a doctor. Treatment is either an oral or topical antifungal medication, such as fluconazole (oral) or miconazole (topical suppository.)
Most yeast infections clear up with medication after a few days, but it could take a week or longer. You should take the medication completely and as directed, and avoid sexual activity until you’ve finished treatment since sex can cause more irritation and weaken the materials used in condoms and diaphragms.
How can I protect myself from contracting a Yeast infection?
Preventing yeast infections can be simple enough with a few lifestyle changes such as:
- Not using scented tampons or pads
- Avoiding vaginal sprays or deodorants
- Not douching
- Wearing cotton underwear and loose fitting clothing
- Changing out of wet clothing quickly, such as after swimming or after you exercise
- Keeping your blood sugar levels in a healthy range
- Using water-based lubricants
Aerobic Vaginitis
What is Aerobic Vaginitis?
Aerobic vaginitis, or “AV,” is a condition caused by a lack of protective bacteria and an overgrowth of aerobic bacteria. It is similar to BV and is often misdiagnosed as such, which leads to improper treatment and can make it worse.
People with vaginas within the ages of 15 to 45 are most likely to contract AV. However, your risk increases if you:
- Have an IUD
- Have or frequently get external hemorrhoids
- Have recently been on or frequently take antibiotics
- Use a vaginal douche
- Have low estrogen levels, which cause a decline in the “good” bacteria
- Engage in sexual activity with new and/or multiple partners
It’s incredibly important to get tested if you suspect you may have Aerobic vaginitis. A proper diagnosis and medication are needed to fully clear AV.
What are the symptoms of Aerobic vaginitis?
AV shares similar symptoms to BV and even a yeast infection, but typically has a few key differences in color and odor. The most common symptoms are:
- Thick yellow or green discharge
- A foul odor that smells “rotten,” opposed to “fishy”
- Severe redness, burning, swelling, and/or tissue irritation
- Pain during sex and while urinating
Remember, its very important to get the proper diagnosis so you can treat with infection with the correct medicines. If left untreated, or if treated incorrectly, AV can increase your risk of contracting STIs, pelvic inflammatory disease, cervical dysplasia, and even cause adverse outcomes during pregnancy and childbirth.
What if I test positive for Aerobic Vaginitis?
If you are positive for aerobic vaginitis, your lab result will read as “Elevated” under “Aerobic vaginitis.” AV is treatable, typically with topical or oral antibiotics, hormone support, and/or probiotics.
Treatment usually lasts anywhere from five to ten days, but if its a more serious case or symptoms don’t improve you may need a second round of medicine. In some instances, topical corticosteroids may be prescribed along with antibiotics to reduce acute swelling and irritation. You should abstain from sexual activity for a minimum of 14 days, to be sure the infection has cleared.
While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for the treatment of AV, its important that you don’t self medicate. Improper medication may lead to chronic infection and worsen your symptoms.
How can I protect myself from contracting Aerobic Vaginitis?
While its important to understand the differences between AV and BV, the preventive measures come down to similar things, such as:
- Use barrier methods like condoms or dental dams during sex.
- Avoid douching and using scented feminine hygiene products.
- Wipe from front to back after using the restroom.
- Wash sex toys often and do not share with multiple partners.
Also, remember that different life events and activities can cause shifts in your vaginal microbiome and increase your risk of contracting AV. Things like frequent sex, hormonal fluctuations due to birth control, pregnancy, or menopause, smoking, and stress can all contribute to your vaginal health.
Cervical cancer screenings
One of the most important women’s lab tests to get regularly is a screening for cervical cancer. These tests are designed to find abnormal or precancerous cervical cell changes in their early stages, when treatment can either prevent cancer from developing or be more likely to be effective against cervical cancer. The two main ways to screen for it are the Pap smear and HPV test.
what does cervical cancer screening include?
Pap Smear
What is a pap smear?
A Pap smear is a quick and straightforward procedure that checks for abnormal cells on your cervix. The test is relatively painless, although some patients may experience slight discomfort or find the whole process mentally uncomfortable. Dr. Lacy has been performing Pap smears for over two decades and is not only gentle but does her best to help you feel as comfortable as possible throughout your exam.
While you lie on your back with your feet in stirrups, Dr. Lacy places a speculum into your vagina to hold it open. Then, she uses a slender device that looks like a mascara brush to gently collect cells from your cervix. As soon as she completes the procedure and puts the cell sample into sterile packaging for testing, she removes the speculum. The whole process takes less than five minutes.
How often do I need to have a pap smear?
You should start to have Pap smears when you turn 21 or become sexually active. In general, women aged 21-65 should have Pap smears every three years. If you’re over the age of 30, Dr. Lacy might recommend having a combined Pap smear and HPV test every five years.
However, if you’ve had abnormal Pap smears in the past or have an elevated risk of cervical cancer, Dr. Lacy might recommend more frequent testing.
What happens if my Pap smear has abnormal results?
If you have abnormal Pap smear results, don’t panic. Often, when a Pap smear has abnormal results it’s because the technician wasn’t able to analyze the sample properly and the results are inconclusive.
If you have abnormal results, Dr. Lacy will develop a treatment plan for you. This may require having another pap smear in the next 3 to 6 months or having a more comprehensive evaluation. In some cases, Dr. Lacy might recommend a colposcopy. A colposcope is a type of microscope that allows her to examine your cervix in more detail and take a biopsy of cells for further testing if necessary.
HPV test
What is HPV?
HPV is the acronym for the Human Paillomavirus. It is the most common viral STI in the United States, and almost all sexually active people will be infected at some point, even if they don’t know it. Some strains of HPV are high-risk and can lead to cancers, like cervical, vulvar and vaginal cancers. Early detection and treatment of precancerous cells can usually prevent this from happening.
HPV doesn’t usually present with symptoms. When symptoms do occur, the most common sign of the virus is warts in your genital area. They may also appear like skin tags. They may appear weeks, months or even years after you’ve been infected with low-risk HPV. All forms of HPV are contagious, and you’re contagious for as long as you have the virus — regardless of whether or not you have symptoms.
How do you test for HPV?
During your pelvic exam, Dr. Lacy will insert a device called a speculum into your vagina to hold it open. She then use a small plastic spatula to collect cells from your cervix. This is typically done while you’re also getting a Pap smear, but can be done as a solo test as well. While slightly uncomfortable, the process is relatively pain free and takes less than five minutes.
Once the sample is collected, it is placed into sterile packaging and sent off to our lab partner to be tested.
What happens if I'm HPV positive?
First things first, don’t panic. An HPV positive test does not mean that you have or will get you have cancer. Overall, the outlook for HPV is generally good. While there isn’t a cure, most people’s immune systems are incredibly efficient at getting rid of the virus for them. Most HPV infections (about 90%) are cleared within a year or two.
Certain strains are more likely to lead to cancer, but Dr. Lacy will monitor your strain if necessary and recommend further testing or treatment. Early detection of high-risk strains is critical, so be sure you are getting regular checkups!
Isn't there a vaccine for HPV?
There are vaccines to help protect you from getting HPV, typically given in a series of 2-3 doses spaced out over time. However, the vaccine is most effective when received before you are exposed to HPV. Since most adults are sexually active and have likely already been exposed to it, the vaccine is primarily recommended for all preteens and adolescents, regardless of gender.
For anyone over the age of 26, Dr. Lacy can talk with you about if the vaccine is still right for you. It is not suitable for anyone over age 45.
For our patients who are eligible and are wanting to get the vaccine, we are happy to give you recommendations on where to go to receive it.
what does sti screening include?
Chlamydia
What is Chlamydia?
Chlamydia is one of the most common STIs caused by bacteria known as Chlamydia trachomatis. It is spread through unprotected oral, vaginal, or anal sex, or by sharing sex toys with other people. Anyone who is sexually active can get chlamydia, and if you have it while pregnant you can pass it on to your newborn. However, things like age, sex, and race may increase your chances of getting it. People who are more at risk for chlamydia are:
- Young people ages 15-24 (more than half of all diagnosed cases in the US occur within this age group)
- Men who have sex with men
- Non-Hispanic Black populations
Chlamydia is sometimes referred to as a “silent infection” because the vast majority of people never notice any symptoms. That’s why its so important to get regular testing done if you are at a higher risk or have multiple sexual partners.
What are the symptoms of Chlamydia?
Most people with the infection present with no symptoms. However, when symptoms do present, it can be anywhere from one week to three months (or longer, in some cases) after having sex.
The most common symptoms among people with female sex organs are:
- Unusual and/or unpleasant smelling vaginal discharge
- Burning during urination
- Pus in your urine
- Pain during or after sexual intercourse
- Abnormal bleeding between periods
- Itching or burning in and around the vagina
The most common symptoms among people with male sex organs are:
- Burning or pain during urination
- Mucus-like or clear, watery discharge from your penis
- Pain or swelling in the testicles
What if I test positive for Chlamydia?
If when you access your lab results through the patient portal and you see the word “Detected” under “Chlamydia,” its understandable to be scared or anxious. The good news is that if you test positive it is easily treatable with prescription antibiotics. Most presented symptoms should clear up within a week or so of starting your prescribed medicine, but be sure to take all of the medication as prescribed, even if your symptoms improve. It’s also recommended to get tested for other STIs such as Gonorrhea, Trichomoniasis, etc, as it can be common to have multiple STIs, and its important to receive treatment tailored to each infection.
To make sure Chlamydia doesn’t reoccur, you should abstain from all sexual activity until you are cleared. Be sure to let any and all sexual partners from within the last three months that you are positive so that they can get tested too, and do not engage in any sexual activity with them until they have also gotten treatment.
You should never leave Chlamydia to go away on its own. Left untreated, it can lead to Pelvic inflammatory disease, pregnancy complications, infertility, and Epididymitis in men. It can also spread to your bloodstream, which can increase your risk of reactive arthritis and your chances of contracting HIV. This is why regular testing is important, so we can catch it and treat it as early as possible.
How can I protect myself from contracting Chlamydia?
Abstinence from all forms of sexual activity is the only 100% way to avoid contracting Chlamydia. If you are sexually active, however, these safe sex practices can help lower your chances of getting the infection:
- Practice monogamous sex- only engage with one partner who only has sex with you.
- Use condoms during oral, vaginal, and anal sex.
- Don’t share sex toys, but if you do be sure to wash them after each use and cover toys used for penetration with a condom.
- Use dental damns during oral sex or vagina-to-vagina contact.
Gonorrhea
What is Gonorrhea?
Gonorrhea, or “the clap,” is another common bacterial STI caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It is the second most common bacterial STI, just behind Chlamydia. It is spread through unprotected oral, vaginal, or anal sex, sharing sex toys, and can be passed from a mother to her baby during childbirth. Much like Chlamydia, about half of all diagnosed cases occur in young people ages 15-24.
It is extremely easy to infect partners accidentally, as it more often than not does not present with symptoms. If you believe you might have contracted the infection, or if a recent sexual partner has told you that they have tested positive, be sure to schedule your appointment as soon as possible.
What are the symptoms of Gonorrhea?
Gonorrhea often does not present with symptoms, especially in women. Men are more likely to experience symptoms. When they do appear, it is typically within two to 14 days of contracting the infection.
The most common symptoms in people with female sex organs are:
- Pain while urinating
- Unusual vaginal discharge (white or yellow)
- Pain in your lower abdomen or pelvis
- Pain during sex
- Bleeding between menstrual cycles
The most common symptoms in people with male sex organs are:
- Pain or burning while urinating
- White, yellow, or green discharge from your penis
- Testicular pain
- Swollen testicles
While less common, anyone can get gonorrhea infections in their throat (via oral sex) or rectum (via anal sex.) Symptoms may include sore throat, trouble swallowing, and itchiness in your throat, or itching, unusual discharge, or pain while pooping in your rectum.
What if I test positive for Gonorrhea?
If you are positive, you will see the word “Detected” under “Neisseria gonorrhea” when you access your lab results through the patient portal. But do not panic! Gonorrhea is treatable with antibiotics. The infection typically clears up within 7-14 days after treatment begins, and some people like to come in for a second test after that time period to be sure its completely gone. Taking all of the antibiotic(s) as prescribed is especially important with Gonorrhea. Its still curable now, but it is becoming more resistant to medication.
You should avoid all forms of sexual activity for a minimum of seven days to avoid spreading Gonorrhea to others. You can get this infection more than once, so you should always practice safe sex and use condoms, dental dams, and be open with your sexual partners about your sexual history.
To make sure Chlamydia doesn’t reoccur, you should abstain from all sexual activity until you are cleared. Be sure to let any and all sexual partners from within the last three months that you are positive so that they can get tested too, and do not engage in any sexual activity with them until they have also gotten treatment.
You should never leave Gonorrhea to go away on its own. Left untreated, it can lead to serious complications that can affect your joints, liver, heart, and brain. In women, it can spread to the reproductive organs and lead to infertility and ectopic pregnancies, as well cause eye problems that could lead to blindness in infants born to untreated parents. For me, it can cause infertility, prostate pain and inflammation, and scars in your urethra.
How can I protect myself from contracting Gonorhhea?
Abstinence from all forms of sexual activity is the only 100% way to avoid contracting Gonorrhea. If you are sexually active, however, these safe sex practices can help lower your chances of getting the infection:
- Practice monogamous sex- only engage with one partner who only has sex with you.
- Use condoms during oral, vaginal, and anal sex.
- Use dental damns during oral sex or vagina-to-vagina contact.
- Don’t engage in sexual activity with anyone who has an active infection or gonorrhea symptoms.
- Get regular testing done for gonorrhea.
Trichomoniasis
What is Trichomoniasis?
Trichomoniasis, often called “trich,” is the most common non-viral STI and it caused by a microscopic parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. It is spread through unprotected sex through semen or vaginal fluids. Although very rare, it can also be spread by sharing sex toys or through contact with damp objects like wet towels or toilet seats.
While anyone who is sexually active can contract trich, it is more common in Black women.
What are the symptoms of Trichomoniasis?
Only around 30% of people infected with trich have symptoms, which is one reason it spreads so easily. When symptoms do occur, they tend to appear within 5-28 days after exposure. While its not clear why some people present with symptoms and some don’t, we do know that symptoms are more common in women.
The most common symptoms in people with female sex organs are:
- Pain or discomfort during sex
- Pain or discomfort during urination
- Irritation, soreness, and/or redness around the opening of your vagina
- Thin (sometimes foamy) white, yellow, or green vaginal discharge that has a bad odor
The most common symptoms in people with male sex organs are:
- Pain while urinating
- Burning after ejaculation
- Froth-like discharge from your penis
- Irritation or itching inside your penis
If left untreated, trich increases your risk of becoming infected with HIV should you be exposed to the virus.
What if I test positive for Trichomoniasis?
If you are positive, you will see the word “Detected” under “Trichomoniasis” when you access your lab results through the patient portal. However, the outcome for those who contract trich is good! The infection is treatable with oral antibiotics.
Without treatment, though, trich can last for months or even years. It doesn’t go away on its own, and you can pass the infection to a sexual partner the entire time you’re infected. Therefore, you should abstain from all sexual activity for at least 7 days AFTER finishing your prescribed medication(s). Around 1 in 5 people who get treatment for trich become infected again within 3 months, so it is crucial to finish your antibiotic(s) as prescribed and to wait to have sex for the recommended time period.
How can I protect myself from contracting Trichomoniasis?
If you are sexually active, these safe sex practices can help lower your chances of getting the infection:
- Practice monogamous sex- only engage with one partner who only has sex with you.
- Use condoms during oral, vaginal, and anal sex.
- Get regular STI screenings and let all of your sexual partners know so they can get tested too.
STI Screenings
Sexually transmitted infection screening recommendations vary by age, gender assigned at birth, and individual risk factors. Routine testing is typically focused on sexually active people, pregnant women, and those who are known to be higher risk. At MORE 901, the STI swab women’s lab tests most commonly performed are for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Trichomoniasis.
In general, you should get tested for these Chlamydia and Gonorrhea annually if you are a sexually active person with a cervix under 25 years old or a man who has sex with men. Women ages 25 and up should be screened if you have new or multiple sexual partners or inconsistent condom use. For Trichomoniasis, its recommended that people with female reproductive organs who are HIV+ or considered high risk be tested annually.
vaginal infection tests
Vaginal infections are incredibly common and are one of the primary reasons women and people with female reproductive organs seek out gynecological help. They are typically caused by bacteria, yeast, or STIs, and because the symptoms of the different kinds of infections often overlap with each other, its important to identify the right cause.
what does a vaginal infection test check for?
Bacterial Vaginosis
What is Bacterial Vaginosis?
Bacterial Vaginosis, commonly referred to as “BV,” is a vaginal infection caused by an overgrowth of naturally occurring bacteria which leads to a bacterial imbalance. In basic terms, BV occurs when the “bad” bacteria in your vagina grow too much and overpower the “good” bacteria. While not classified as a STI, it is closely associated with sexual activity.
Anyone with a vagina can get bacterial vaginosis, although it is rare for it to occur in people who have never had sex. It is the most common vaginal problem for women ages 15 to 44.
The risk of contracting BV is higher if you:
- don’t use condoms or dental damns.
- are pregnant.
- have an IUD.
- are Black.
- have multiple sex partners.
- use douches.
- are taking antibiotics.
What are the symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis?
BV is not spread from person to person, but sexual activity can increase your risk of contracting the infection. Many people, up to 84%, do not present with symptoms. The most common symptoms are:
- Burning while urinating
- Unusual vaginal discharge, typically an off-white, gray, or green color
- Fishy-smelling vaginal discharge, especially after sex
BV symptoms can often overlap with other conditions like yeast infections, so its important to get tested if you suspect you might have Bacterial Vaginosis so you can receive the proper treatment.
What if I test positive for Bacterial Vaginosis?
When you access your lab results via the patient portal, you will see either “Not detected” (negative) or “Elevated” (positive) under “Bacterial Vaginosis.” The good news is BV is easy to treat with antibiotics, either orally or in a gel/cream form. Its important to note, however, that over-the-counter creams intended for conditions like a yeast infection DO NOT treat BV and can actually make it worse. You MUST get a prescription from a doctor. Even if you aren’t any symptoms, you should still get treatment if you test positive.
Most of the time, one round of antibiotics clears the infection if taken as prescribed. A small number of people may need an additional round of treatment.
In some cases, BV may resolve on its own without medication. However, if you have symptoms you should seek medical care as having the infection can make you more prone to contracting STIs and can affect pregnancy.
How can I protect myself from contracting Bacterial Vaginosis?
While there isn’t treatment or a vaccine to protect against ever getting BV, there are precautions to reduce the risk:
- Limit your number of sexual partners.
- Use latex condoms or dental dams.
- Avoid douching.
- Avoid vaginal contact with anything that has touched your anus.
- Wear cotton underwear.
Yeast Infection (Candida)
What is a Yeast infection?
A yeast infection is a condition when too much of the fungus Candida is allowed to grow in moist areas. In this context we are talking about vaginal yeast infections, or “vaginal candidiasis,” but it is also possible to get a yeast infection on the skin or orally (commonly known as “thrush.”)
Yeast is a normal part of our bodies ecosystems, but certain conditions can allow it to overgrow. Common causes of vaginal yeast infections are:
- High blood sugar/poorly managed Diabetes- this can weaken your immune system, and the extra sugar in the urine helps yeast grow.
- Taking antibiotics- broad spectrum antibiotics can kill the good bacteria in the vagina, causing an imbalance.
- Being immunocompromised.
- Hormonal changes- anything that disrupts your hormones can also disrupt the balance of yeast and bacteria in your vagina, including birth control, pregnancy, perimenopause, and normal menstrual cycle changes.
- Wearing tight, non-breathable clothing.
- Staying in wet clothes or swim suits for prolonged periods of time.
- Using scented tampons, soaps, and sprays.
Upwards of 80% of people with vaginas will get a yeast infection at least once in their lives and around 50% will get two or more. The most common ages to get a yeast infection are between the ages of puberty and menopause. They aren’t considered contagious, although in rare cases they have been known to pass from one female partner to another with vagina-on-vagina contact.
What are the symptoms of a Yeast infection?
Similar to BV, yeast infection symptoms can present like other vaginal infections.
Common symptoms include:
- Burning during urination
- Itching or burning around your vagina
- Thick, white discharge that resembles cottage cheese
- Pain during sex
- Redness and swelling around your vulva and vagina
- Small cuts or cracks in the skin of your vulva
What if I test positive for a Yeast infection?
You will find your results for a yeast infection swab in your labs in the patient portal under “Candida panel.” If its negative it will show “Not detected,” but it will say “Elevated” if its positive. However, vaginal yeast infections are easily treatable.
Some yeast infections can be treated with over-the-counter medications, but its possible that it might not go away completely or if you aren’t sure if its a yeast infection and it isn’t, you could make it worse. Your best bet is to get tested by a doctor. Treatment is either an oral or topical antifungal medication, such as fluconazole (oral) or miconazole (topical suppository.)
Most yeast infections clear up with medication after a few days, but it could take a week or longer. You should take the medication completely and as directed, and avoid sexual activity until you’ve finished treatment since sex can cause more irritation and weaken the materials used in condoms and diaphragms.
How can I protect myself from contracting a Yeast infection?
Preventing yeast infections can be simple enough with a few lifestyle changes such as:
- Not using scented tampons or pads
- Avoiding vaginal sprays or deodorants
- Not douching
- Wearing cotton underwear and loose fitting clothing
- Changing out of wet clothing quickly, such as after swimming or after you exercise
- Keeping your blood sugar levels in a healthy range
- Using water-based lubricants
Aerobic Vaginitis
What is Aerobic Vaginitis?
Aerobic vaginitis, or “AV,” is a condition caused by a lack of protective bacteria and an overgrowth of aerobic bacteria. It is similar to BV and is often misdiagnosed as such, which leads to improper treatment and can make it worse.
People with vaginas within the ages of 15 to 45 are most likely to contract AV. However, your risk increases if you:
- Have an IUD
- Have or frequently get external hemorrhoids
- Have recently been on or frequently take antibiotics
- Use a vaginal douche
- Have low estrogen levels, which cause a decline in the “good” bacteria
- Engage in sexual activity with new and/or multiple partners
It’s incredibly important to get tested if you suspect you may have Aerobic vaginitis. A proper diagnosis and medication are needed to fully clear AV.
What are the symptoms of Aerobic vaginitis?
AV shares similar symptoms to BV and even a yeast infection, but typically has a few key differences in color and odor. The most common symptoms are:
- Thick yellow or green discharge
- A foul odor that smells “rotten,” opposed to “fishy”
- Severe redness, burning, swelling, and/or tissue irritation
- Pain during sex and while urinating
Remember, its very important to get the proper diagnosis so you can treat with infection with the correct medicines. If left untreated, or if treated incorrectly, AV can increase your risk of contracting STIs, pelvic inflammatory disease, cervical dysplasia, and even cause adverse outcomes during pregnancy and childbirth.
What if I test positive for Aerobic Vaginitis?
If you are positive for aerobic vaginitis, your lab result will read as “Elevated” under “Aerobic vaginitis.” AV is treatable, typically with topical or oral antibiotics, hormone support, and/or probiotics.
Treatment usually lasts anywhere from five to ten days, but if its a more serious case or symptoms don’t improve you may need a second round of medicine. In some instances, topical corticosteroids may be prescribed along with antibiotics to reduce acute swelling and irritation. You should abstain from sexual activity for a minimum of 14 days, to be sure the infection has cleared.
While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for the treatment of AV, its important that you don’t self medicate. Improper medication may lead to chronic infection and worsen your symptoms.
How can I protect myself from contracting Aerobic Vaginitis?
While its important to understand the differences between AV and BV, the preventive measures come down to similar things, such as:
- Use barrier methods like condoms or dental dams during sex.
- Avoid douching and using scented feminine hygiene products.
- Wipe from front to back after using the restroom.
- Wash sex toys often and do not share with multiple partners.
Also, remember that different life events and activities can cause shifts in your vaginal microbiome and increase your risk of contracting AV. Things like frequent sex, hormonal fluctuations due to birth control, pregnancy, or menopause, smoking, and stress can all contribute to your vaginal health.