What is STD testing?

STD testing refers to medical tests that check for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), also known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs). These tests can include blood tests, urine samples, or swabs from genital, oral, or rectal areas, depending on the infection being screened for. Regular STD testing is important for sexually active individuals to detect infections early, even when no symptoms are present, to ensure prompt treatment and prevent spreading infections to others.