Suspect you may have an STD? Visit our urgent care near you for discreet STD testing and treatment today. Walk-ins welcome.

With spring in full swing, there’s no better time to refocus on your health, especially when it comes to things that aren’t always top-of-mind, like your sexual wellness. Whether you’re walking the paths at the Wetlands Trail or browsing local finds at the Athens Farmers Market, it’s easy to feel like everything is running smoothly. But if you’re sexually active, routine STD testing is one of the smartest steps you can take to protect your long-term health.

So, how do you know if it’s time to get tested? The answer isn’t always black and white, but we’ve broken it down to help you feel confident in your next steps.

Visit AFC Athens today.

Why Does STD Testing Even Matter?

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are more common than most people think. In fact, many STDs don’t cause symptoms at all. That means you or your partner could have an infection without ever knowing it. If left untreated, some STDs can lead to serious health issues, including:

• Infertility
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Pregnancy complications
• Increased risk of HIV
• Organ damage in severe cases

The good news? Regular testing catches infections early when they’re easier to treat and less likely to cause long-term harm.

Signs It’s Time to Get Tested

Sometimes your body gives you warning signs that something might be off. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s a good idea to head to AFC Athens for a confidential STD test:

• Unusual discharge (from the penis or vagina)
• Pain or burning when urinating
• Itching, irritation, or sores in the genital area
• Pain during sex
• Swollen lymph nodes or flu-like symptoms (especially with HIV or syphilis)

Even if you feel totally fine, there are still some moments in life when getting tested is just the smart move.

You Should Also Get Tested If:

• You have a new sexual partner. It’s always a good idea to start a new relationship on the right foot with a fresh round of testing.
• You’ve had multiple partners. The more people you’ve been sexually active with, the higher your risk for certain infections.
• You’ve had unprotected sex. Condoms reduce the risk but don’t eliminate it -especially with skin-to-skin transmitted infections like herpes or HPV.
• Your partner tested positive. Even if you feel fine, testing is essential if someone you’re sexually involved with has a confirmed STD.
• You’re pregnant. Some STDs can affect both you and your baby, so early testing is a standard part of prenatal care.

What If I’m In a Long-Term Relationship?

We hear this a lot at our AFC Athens clinic: “Do I still need to get tested if I’ve been with the same person for years?” The answer depends on your individual circumstances. If neither of you has been tested since before your relationship started or if there’s been infidelity, testing is still a smart and responsible choice. Think of it as peace of mind for both of you.

What Does the STD Testing Process Look Like?

Worried that getting tested will be uncomfortable or awkward? We get it, but the truth is, it’s quick, confidential, and judgment-free. At AFC Athens, we offer walk-in STD testing with no appointment needed. Depending on the type of infection, testing may include:

• A simple urine sample
• A blood draw
• A swab of the mouth, genitals, or rectal area
• A brief physical exam if needed

Most results come back in just a few days, and if you do test positive, we’ll walk you through treatment options and next steps. Many infections are completely curable with antibiotics, and others can be managed effectively with medication.

Protect Yourself and Your Community

STD testing isn’t just about protecting yourself, it also helps prevent the spread of infection to others. In a tight-knit community like Athens, where people genuinely care about each other, routine testing is a responsible and kind thing to do. Plus, the sooner you know your status, the sooner you can get back to doing what you love, whether that’s exploring the Mayfield Dairy Farms Visitor Center or enjoying a backyard barbecue with friends.

Walk Into AFC Athens for Confidential STD Testing Today

If you’re unsure whether you need an STD test, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. Our team at AFC Athens is here to make the process simple, private, and stress-free. No appointments, no awkward conversations, just reliable care when you need it most.

Make your sexual health a priority this season. Stop by AFC Athens today for walk-in STD testing and leave with peace of mind.