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Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI's)
We receive many questions about the tests available at Hudson for sexually transmitted infections. Unfortunately there is no test for "everything" and no test is 100% accurate. The following are currently available tests at Hudson Health Center. The prices listed reflect self-pay and United Healthcare Student Plan members only. If you have a different insurance company the prices will vary.
Chlamydia/Gonorrhea: The specimen for this test is collected using a swab, in males the specimen is obtained from the urethra, in females from the cervix. The specimen can also be obtained by collecting a urine specimen. Symptoms of infection range from no symptoms (if you have no symptoms, but a partner has tested positive, you should also be tested), to pain/discharge. The current charge for this combined testing is $28.00.
Syphilis: This is a blood test. Symptoms begin as raw open sores that usually last about a week and then resolve. Later symptoms vary from rashes to swollen lymph nodes to fever. While active disease will be treated with antibiotics, you should wait 6 - 8 weeks after your last new sexual contact before being tested. This test is often done in conjunction with HIV Testing. The current charge is $14.00.
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) Testing: This is a blood test. Antibody response is delayed with HIV infection. You should wait for 3 months after your last new sexual contact before being tested. Symptoms vary, but commonly they include frequent, and perhaps unusual, infections. Current cost is $12.00. This test can be done confidentially (your name will be associated with the result), or anonymously (your name is not associated with the result, the test is ordered by number).
Herpes: The specimen for this test is collected using a culture swab. The specimen is taken from an open sore or lesion, but a screening specimen can be collected even when no lesions are present. The current cost is $23.00. There is also a blood test available, but with the screening blood test, if you have ever had a cold sore, or been exposed to a cold sore you may test positive. The cost for this test is $37.00.
Genital Warts: No test is currently available to screen for genital warts in the absence of obvious disease. If warts are present, treatment will begin immediately. Women should have a yearly Pap test.
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