Routine STD (sexually transmitted disease) testing typically involves a combination of samples tailored to an individual's age, gender, and sexual history. Most standard screenings focus on the most common infections: chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, Hepatitis B/C and HIV.

Primary Addiction Medicine Care of Connecticut endorses CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) guidelines and recommends routine screening via: 

  • Urine Sample: Commonly used to detect chlamydia and gonorrhea. It is a non-invasive option often preferred for routine checkups.
  • Blood Draw: Used to screen for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B and C. Some doctors also include testing for herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2) antibodies in comprehensive blood panels.

Standard Screening Recommendations

Testing frequency and type often depend on specific CDC health guidelines:

  • Everyone ages 13–64: Should be tested for HIV at least once in their lifetime.
  • Sexually active women under 25: Annual screening for chlamydia and gonorrhea is recommended.
  • Pregnant individuals: Routine testing at the first prenatal visit usually includes HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.
  • Men who have sex with men (MSM): Annual (or more frequent) screening for HIV, syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea is typically advised.

If an STD is diagnosed, then appropriate treatment will be instituted per CDC guidelines.