Dear lax007,

Unless you specifically ask, most health care providers do not automatically test for sexually transmitted infections. If there are visible symptoms, an infection may be detected visually by a trained professional. To be certain, diagnosis is made by testing blood, urine, discharge, or tissue samples. Usually, however, there are no symptoms, and diagnosis is only possible by laboratory test. Because most sexually transmitted infections do not have symptoms, it's very important to get tested!

To make an appointment for confidential testing at a Planned Parenthood health center, call 1-800-230-PLAN.

To reduce the risk of infection, use a latex or female condom for vaginal or anal sex. For safer oral sex, use a latex condom to cover the penis, or a Glyde dam or plastic wrap to cover the vulva or anus.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.