It's not a routine test because there are different tests for different STDs. Some can be caught via a smear (such has HPV Human Papillomavirus and herpes) while others have to be screened for via specific blood tests using special agents in the blood collection tubes. You have to request STD screening.
Posts: 9192 | Location: Atlanta, GA, USA | Registered: 06-03-02
Oh no, I worded poorly - mean't "you" in general. I was trying to state that if someone wanted to be tested for STDs they had to specify that so the series of test could be run. Simple pap smears don't catch all STDs
Posts: 9192 | Location: Atlanta, GA, USA | Registered: 06-03-02
Pap smears also check for abnormal cervical cells that can be an indication of cancer. This is what they are normally looking for in the annual exam. Cervical cancer caught early is nearly 100% curable.
Posts: 3065 | Location: A place with palm trees and sunshine! | Registered: 03-17-03
Not always true...at least I think. I go to the health department to get my paps. I've been going for a number of years. They told me when I was going in their that they were testing for ALL std's except HIV because that is blood test. The next time I went in the nurse ran through every std except HIV and told me that it was clear. I guess they just do it at the health department because my old gyno didnt do that.
