Do you have to have a pap to check for STDs?

[xcutezix]

I'm 18 and have only been sexually active for a few months, my bf had chlymidia last year and has been cleared of it but I am worried about catching anything because i've heard women have no symptoms and can become infertile. We always use condoms but I know it can STDs can be caught in other ways aswell. I was wondering if there was a way I could be tested for STDs with a urine sample or something as I am too scared to have the pap smear thing yet
thanks
x

[Miss Mum ?]

have a test, but honestly dont be scared about having a papsmear, if you have a good doctor then you have nothing to be worried about. my doctor didnt even look that much. he was very respectful. adn you should get tested for hpv.

[dont k]

Yes get a pap smear!! I know it's uncomfortable but it could save your life!! I just went for my yearly and my doc called yesterday with the bombshell that I have HPV!! I had no idea!! I've been with the same guy for two years and he sure as hell didn't know he had it. If I hadn't gone and it goes left untreated, it can kill me!! Some strains cause cancer! And yes, chlamydia can take your choice about carrying your own children away from you. Go to the doctor even if you're scared. You need that peace of mind, and IF you have something, getting it treated quickly is the very best thing. Good luck to you.

[GeriLynn]

To test for gonorrhea, chlamydia or trich you need to have a vaginal specimen taken. Usually that's done while you're getting your pap smear. For the gonorrhea and chlamydia it's just a tiny cotton swab that the doctor uses to get a sample, it's put in a solution and sent to the lab. Trich can be seen under the microscope and diagnosed in the office. As far as herpes you would need to get a viral culture done. Other STD's are done by using a blood test.

Pap Smears are not that bad...plus if you're sexually active then it would be in your best interest to start having them just to keep an eye on things.

[Richee C]

I believe the pap gives the best results. You will have to get the pap smear not only for that , but it can detect any other problems if they exist.