Many women believe when they have a Pap smear test, they are also being tested for STDs. This isn’t always the case. While it is true that a doctor may collect fluids at the time of a Pap smear test for the purpose of running additional testing, it does not mean that they are testing for STDs. While certain types of Pap smear may include HPV testing, these tests do not include the type of comprehensive STD testing that is recommended by the Center for Disease Control.
Pap smear testing is intended to detect the early signs of cervical cancer. Pap smears do not test for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes or HIV. These test need to be performed separately and are usually performed through blood or urine testing. At STD Test Express, chlamydia and gonorrhea are tested by collecting a urine samples. We test for herpes 1 and 2, HIV, hepatitis B and C, and syphilis through blood samples. It is important to remember that a Pap smear test is not a substitute for regular comprehensive STD testing.
A Pap test is recommended by the CDC for all women between the ages of 21 and 65 years old, and can be done in a doctor’s office or clinic. It is also recommended that all women under the age of 25 be testing regularly for chlamydia. Additionally, the CDC suggests than all women with multiple partners (regardless of age) should also be tested. Lastly, the CDC further recommends any persons aged 13-64 should be tested at least once for HIV and any persons who have unsafe sex or share injection drug equipment should be tested for HIV at least once a year.
If you are concerned that you may have been exposed to an STD, the best way to find out is to have comprehensive STD testing done. This is the best way to be fully aware of your current sexual health status.
References:
1 CDC Gynecologic Cancers Screening – Pap Test Fact Sheet
2 CDC STD and HIV Screening Fact Sheet