Couldn’t my doctor tell if I had an STD?

If you don’t know me, I’m Dr. Flash and I’m here to answer your questions about sexual health.

Sometimes, when someone gets a pelvic exam you can tell that they have an STD. They’re very tender, they have some discharge. There are signs and symptoms that the person has an STD.

But, a lot of the times it’s just a normal exam.

And so, the only way to know is to actually test.

This video is a joint production of KFF’s GREATER THAN and CDC’s LET’S STOP HIV TOGETHER. This information is shared for educational purposes and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. The views expressed are those of the featured medical professional and reflect information available to that professional at the time of filming.

Always consult a healthcare provider for any personal health decisions. The marks “CDC” and “Let’s Stop HIV Together” are owned by the US Dept. of Health and Human Services and are used with permission. Use of these logos is not an endorsement by HHS or CDC of any particular product, service, or enterprise.