STD Testing

Routine sexually transmitted disease (STD) testing can protect you from serious risks.

If you have an unknown and untreated STD:

• You can spread the disease to others
• You risk suffering permanent damage

At UVA, we urge you to get tested often. Read these STD testing FAQs.

STD Testing at UVA

Talking about your sexual history can feel embarrassing. You may want to avoid testing and hope for the best. At UVA, you can count on:

Can you have an STD and not know it?

Yes. Even if you don't have symptoms, you may still have a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia can all live in your body without you knowing it. Syphilis can live in your body silently for decades.

If you don't have symptoms of an STD, can you still spread it?

Yes.

Do STDs cause permanent damage?

STDs can cause permanent damage to you, depending on the infection and how long you go without treatment, including: