STD Screening Recommendations: Who Should Get Tested, and How Often?
Jul 14, 2025
At Rios Healthcare Associates, our team, led by Tomas Rios, MD, and Nicolin Neal, MD, is committed to safeguarding your health through preventive care, so we’re getting the word out about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
We understand most people aren’t comfortable talking about this topic, but not talking about it can be far more uncomfortable. We promise a judgment-free, discreet experience when you come in for STD screening because we want all Houstonians to enjoy safe, healthy sex lives.
Here’s what you need to know about who needs STD screenings, how often, and why.
STDs are stealthy invaders, showing no symptoms but causing long-term health effects if untreated. Regular testing is the only way to know your status, giving you time to treat the problem and reducing your risk of complications like infertility and chronic pain.
Testing also protects your partners and prevents the spread of infections in your community.
Our STD testing recommendations vary depending on age, sexual activity, and risk factors. Here’s what we advise based on guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and our clinical expertise.
Younger women face a higher risk of common STDs like chlamydia and gonorrhea. We recommend annual testing for all sexually active women in this age range, even without symptoms.
If you’re over 25, you should schedule yearly STD screenings if you have any of the following risk factors:
Regular testing allows us to catch the infection early and treat it quickly.
A healthy pregnancy calls for comprehensive care, including:
Regular testing during pregnancy protects your health and ensures the best possible outcomes for your baby.
This group benefits most from more frequent screening. We advise testing at least annually, with higher frequency (every 3-6 months) for those with increased risk factors, such as multiple partners or engagement in unprotected sexual activities.
Regular testing for additional STDs is critical for those with a preexisting HIV diagnosis.
General recommendations vary, but here are some basic guides based on your situation:
If you’re low-risk (monogamous relationship with an STD-free partner), testing every 1-3 years during routine health exams may suffice.
If you have multiple partners or the high-risk factors listed above, testing should be a regular, annual commitment.
If you have symptoms, like pain during urination, unusual discharges, or sores, you need immediate testing.
Regular testing allows us to get to know you, helps build trust, and makes testing easier each time.
STD testing at Rios Healthcare Associates is confidential, quick, and tailored to your needs. It may include:
We use modern technology to ensure accurate results, and our health care team helps you understand and act on your results.
Take the next step in prioritizing your health today. Request your confidential STD testing appointment online or call Rios Healthcare Associates in Houston or Sugar Land, Texas.