For some STDs, all the doctor or nurse will need is for you to urinate (pee) in a cup. They can tell a lot by looking for certain organisms in your urine. Some STDs may be diagnosed by swabbing (or taking a cotton swab or wooden spatula) and taking a sample of vaginal secretions and looking at it under a microscope. Other STDs, like herpes, are diagnosed by culturing the fluid inside the little sores or blisters. And sometimes a blood sample will be taken for tests. Ask what kind of test you will have.

If you feel nervous about getting checked for STDs, take a few deep breaths and try to relax. You may be shy about having doctors and nurses look at your genitals. The tests are usually quick, and it may help to remember that the nurses and doctors are there to help you, and do this kind of test all the time.

Do my parents have to find out?

This varies a lot from state to state. Some clinics will see you without your parents' permission and some will not. If you are concerned about this, call the clinic before you go. Ask if you need to bring your parent along for permission and what information the clinic will share with them. This way you know what to expect ahead of time.

Know the Facts. Know for Sure.

• If you or your partner have had sex, especially if it was unprotected, you may have an STD and not know it.
  
  
• If you think you have an STD, there is something you can do about it. The only way to know for sure is to be tested. Call ASHA's STI Resource Center Hotline, 1-800-227-8922 for more information.
  
  
• STDs like chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis are curable. While not curable, diseases like HIV, HPV, herpes and hepatitis B are treatable.
  
  
• If left untreated, STDs can lead to long-term consequences, like infertility, long-term pain or cancer.

If You Think You Have an STD:

• Talk to your mom or dad, or another adult you trust
  
  
• Ask the school nurse about getting help
  
  
• Call your family doctor
  
  
• Call your local public health department or Planned Parenthood clinic

Remember: If you call your local public health department or Planned Parenthood clinic and ask about testing, they cannot diagnose you over the phone. You will need to go to the clinic and get tested to know for sure if you have an STD.