Do gynocologists do std testing?!
Question:
Do gynocologists do std testing?
If i go to a gyno can i ask for tests for herpes and hpv? will she do them or do i need to go to a clinic? and how accurate is the herpes blood test?
Answers:
Yes! In fact, I would suggest talking with your OB about STD testing over your primary physician. Your OB indirectly tests you for HPV every year when you have your pap. But the pap only tests to see if you have any cervical changes caused by it. It does not actually test to see if you have the virus. You can request that your doctor do an HPV test during your exam.
Herpes is can be tested by a culture if you are having an outbreak. Otherwise, you can request a type specific blood test. If it comes back positive it is almost 100% accurate, but if it comes back negative it is about 90% accurate. If your test comes back positive for HSV 1, your doctor will likely tell you that it is oral and not to worry about it. This may or may not be the case. If you have a history of cold sores, you can probably assume you have it orally. If not, it can be either genital or oral. If your test comes back positive for HSV 2, then it is about 90%+ likely you have it genitally.
It is a very good idea for everyone to request these tests in addition to a chlamydia and gonorrhea test at their annual exam. All of these conditions are very common and usually show no visible symptoms. The only way to know for sure is to have the test!