Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in women are commonly diagnosed before symptoms develop during routine medical check-ups or when a woman requests testing. When symptoms are present, the obstetrician-gynecologist (ObGyn) may perform a number of tests to determine the exact type of STD.

To diagnose an STD, the physician will take the patient’s medical history, including detailed information about their sexual history. The physician will then perform a complete physical examination, including a pelvic examination. During the exam, the physician will carefully inspect the genital area, oral cavity and rectum. If sores or discharge are present, the physician may use a swab to collect samples for examination. The samples will then be tested for the presence of various microorganisms.

During the pelvic exam, swabs of the vagina may be taken. A Pap smear, or a swab of the cervix, may also be taken. The samples will then be checked for infections. Urine tests and blood tests may also be ordered to detect or rule out certain diseases, including HIV/AIDS and syphilis.

Once an STD is diagnosed, a woman will need to inform her present and past sexual partner(s) about the diagnosis. This is necessary because all sexual partners will require testing and treatment. Informing sexual partners also prevents the transmission of the disease to other people or the reinfection of partners who have already received treatment.