STI testing and treatment in Englewood, CO

Confidential STI Testing & Treatment in Englewood, CO

The providers at Cherry Hills Midwifery, Obstetrics, & Gynecology have helped many women get tested, treated, and back to feeling well after a sexually transmitted infection. We offer confidential, judgment-free STI screening and treatment in a comfortable setting, so you can protect your health and your partner’s with confidence.

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What Are Sexually Transmitted Infections?

A sexually transmitted infection (STI) is any infection passed primarily through sexual contact or the exchange of bodily fluids. STIs may be bacterial, viral, or parasitic. Although sexual activity is the most common way they spread, some STIs can also pass through skin-to-skin contact, shared needles, or from mother to baby during pregnancy or childbirth.

Common STIs include:

  • Chlamydia
  • Gonorrhea
  • Trichomoniasis
  • Genital herpes
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV) and genital warts
  • Syphilis
  • Hepatitis B
  • HIV

HIV is less common in the United States than many other STIs, but testing is still recommended for all adults at least once.

What Is the Difference Between STDs and STIs?

The difference is mostly a matter of terminology. “STD” (sexually transmitted disease) was the traditional term and is still widely used. Many medical providers now prefer “STI” because an infection does not always cause symptoms or develop into disease, yet it can still be passed to others and treated.

Symptoms of STIs

Many STIs cause no symptoms at all, which is why routine screening matters. When symptoms do appear, they may include:

  • Unusual vaginal discharge or odor
  • Burning with urination
  • Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
  • Bleeding between periods or after intercourse
  • Sores, blisters, bumps, or itching in the genital area

Left untreated, some STIs, including chlamydia and gonorrhea, can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, chronic pelvic pain, and infertility.

How Are STIs Diagnosed?

Because there are many different STIs, there are several ways to test for them, including:

  • Pap smears and HPV testing
  • Urine samples
  • Blood tests
  • Swabs of the vagina, cervix, throat, or rectum
  • Examination and testing of any sores or lesions

Your provider recommends tests based on your symptoms and individual risk factors. Women at risk for multiple infections may need several tests at once.

How Are STIs Treated?

Bacterial STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis are curable with antibiotics. Viral infections such as herpes and HIV are not curable but can be managed effectively with medication. Our team will also discuss partner treatment, retesting, and prevention, including condoms and the HPV vaccine.

Are STI Appointments Confidential?

Yes. By law, all medical appointments, including STI testing and treatment, are kept confidential. No one besides your medical provider will know about your testing unless you give permission. Some positive results must be reported to the health department for public health tracking, but this information remains protected. Results are delivered privately through our patient portal.

STI screening is often part of a routine well woman exam, and teens can also receive confidential screening along with contraception counseling. To schedule a private visit, call (303) 788-0808.

STI Testing FAQs

How often should I be tested for STIs?

Sexually active women under 25 should be screened for chlamydia and gonorrhea yearly. Women with new or multiple partners should be tested more often. Your provider will recommend a schedule.

Can I have an STI without symptoms?

Yes. Many STIs, including chlamydia and HPV, often cause no symptoms, which is why regular screening is important.

Is STI testing confidential?

Yes. All testing and results are confidential and shared only with you unless you give permission or reporting is required by law.

Are STIs curable?

Bacterial STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis are curable with antibiotics. Viral STIs such as herpes and HIV are managed with medication.

Should my partner be treated too?

Yes. Partners should be tested and treated to prevent reinfection.

Does birth control protect against STIs?

Only condoms reduce STI transmission. Other contraceptive methods prevent pregnancy but not infection.

How will I receive my results?

Results are delivered privately through our patient portal, and our team will contact you about any needed treatment.