STI/STD Testing

Does Valley Medical Offer Testing for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)?

Valley Medical and Wellness offers fast and convenient urine testing for the most common microbial STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis. Testing takes just a few minutes and results are available within 1 to 2 business days. We perform all STI testing at our in-house laboratory and results are completely confidential. And, if you test positive, we offer convenient telemedicine appointments to provide the necessary treatment.

What STIs do you test for?

At Valley Medical and Wellness we perform urine-based testing for gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis. We also test for women’s fungal/yeast infections (candida).

Are STIs curable?

Most STIs are curable, especially if caught early.

Is an STI the same as an STD?

When most people talk about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), they're talking about the same thing. Technically, an infection, if treated promptly and correctly, doesn't progress to the disease stage. You want to treat your STI before it becomes an STD.

How long should I wait to get tested?

Different STIs have different incubation periods. This means you may need to wait a short period after you think you've been infected for the infection to appear in test results, but then as soon as possible afterward. For best results, you should wait to get tested as follows:

• Chlamydia, wait 24 hours to get tested
• Gonorrhea, wait 2 days to get tested
• Trichomoniasis, wait 5 days to get tested
  
  

Should I get tested for an STI even if I don't have any symptoms?

Many STIs may not show symptoms or have symptoms similar to other illnesses or diseases. If you think you may have been infected, the only way to be sure is to get tested.

I tested positive for an STI. Should my partner get tested?

Yes. STIs are highly transmissible, so it's possible you either got the STI from your partner or your partner could get it from you. You should inform all your recent sexual partners that they may have been exposed to an STI and should be tested immediately, even if they're not exhibiting any obvious symptoms.

What do I have to do before the test?

Since you will be providing a urine sample, you should refrain from urinating for an hour before your appointment. No other preparation is necessary.

What can I expect from the test?

This test requires the submission of a small urine sample. Because of this, you should refrain from urinating for about an hour before your appointment. When you enter our clinic, you will be asked for your name and date of birth, to verify your appointment. You will then be handed a collection cup and directed to a private room to provide a sample of your urine. When you're done providing the sample, you can leave. The process is completely private and takes just a few minutes.

How long does it take to get results?

If you test at one of our Twin Cities locations, you will receive your test results within one business day. If you test at our Rochester clinic, test results are available within two business days. (STI testing is not currently available at our Bemidji clinic. Some samples may require additional confirmational testing.)

What happens next?

You will be notified of your results via private email or our private messaging system that only you can access. If you test negative, that's good news. If you test positive, you can schedule a convenient telemedicine visit with one of our providers to discuss treatment options and next steps. We are also required to report positive chlamydia and gonorrhea results to the Minnesota Department of Health.

If I test positive for an STI, do you offer treatment? 

Yes, we do. If you receive notification of positive test results, you'll be offered the opportunity to schedule a convenient telemedicine appointment to discuss treatment and other options. Our providers can prescribe the medications you need to cure your specific condition.

Do you test for yeast and fungal infections?

Yes we do. Any individual concerned about their vaginal health needs to be aware of possible infections that can lead to serious issues.

Trichomoniasis ("trich"), vaginalis, and fungal infections can cause a variety of health problems, including infertility. and may increase your chances of contracting other life-threatening diseases. If you think you have trich or a fungal infection, or exhibit symptoms of infection, you need to be tested.

Valley Medical and Wellness offers fast and convenient urine testing for trich, vaginalis, and the most common fungal infections. Testing takes just a few minutes and results are available within 1 to 2 business days. We perform all testing at our in-house laboratory and results are completely confidential. And, if you test positive, we offer convenient telemedicine appointments to provide the necessary treatment.

Do you test for syphilis, HIV, or hepatitis?

Syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis all require blood testing. At present, we only offer urine testing for microbial infections. If you think you may have been exposed to syphilis, HIV, or hepatitis, we can recommend other testing options for you.