#stdtests

An STD profile test, often referred to as an STD panel or STD screening, is a set of laboratory tests conducted to check for the presence of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in an individual’s body. These tests are typically done when a person has engaged in sexual activity and wants to ensure their sexual health or if there are symptoms or concerns related to STDs.

The specific tests included in an STD profile can vary, but they commonly cover some of the most prevalent and concerning STDs, including:

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) Test: Detects the presence of the virus that causes AIDS.

Syphilis Test: Screens for syphilis, a bacterial infection that can cause various health issues if left untreated.

Gonorrhea Test: Checks for the presence of the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria, which can cause infections in the genital, rectal, and throat areas.

Chlamydia Test: Detects the Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria, a common cause of genital and urinary tract infections.

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Test: Determines the presence of the herpes virus, which can cause cold sores and genital herpes.

Hepatitis B and C Tests: Screen for hepatitis B and C viruses, which can cause liver infections and long-term health issues.

A common misconception about Planned Parenthood is that the majority of services provided to patients are abortions. Planned Parenthood does incredible work for low costs to even no cost for women AND men that need it the most. 

Although Planned Parenthood is the largest abortion provider in the world (NPR), they offer a lot more services than that. In Planned Parenthood’s 2014-2015 annual report they said, “In 2015, some insurance companies denied birth control coverage or required women to pay out-of-pocket for their birth control... In clear defiance of the Affordable Care Act.” (https://issuu.com/actionfund/docs/2014-2015_annual_report_final_20mb)

It is outrageous that woman are being denied the services that they have a right to access for low-cost, if not for free. Contraceptives such as an IUD can cost anywhere from $500-$900, according to Planned Parenthood’s Tumblr blog. (http://plannedparenthood.tumblr.com/post/28521852221/how-much-does-an-iud-cost)

Planned Parenthood works with each individual based on their income and adjust the cost of care accordingly. From personal experience, when I went to Planned Parenthood for an IUD, I was planning on paying a couple hundred dollars after my copay and fees left over that insurance wouldn’t cover. Before my visit, I met with a receptionist who asked me my annual income. I told her I made a measly $15,000 last year as a part time server, which put me at a 400% poverty rate according to my chart that I happened to glance at while the nurse wasn’t looking. Before getting my ParaGard inserted, I kindly asked the nurse if she knew how much my visit was going to cost. She left the room and came back 10 seconds later to tell me I would owe nothing. I was shocked and pleasantly surprised. I am extremely grateful that I was able to go to Planned Parenthood and get the contraceptive that I wanted without having to pay a penny.