It's getting to be that time of the decade when I drag myself to the doctor for a physical.  Since becoming a very occassional hobbiest I fell like I should have the doctor check for any of the occupational hazards of the hobby.  This raises two questions. First, do the standard blood tests a physician conducts in connection with a normal "physical" look for std's?  Second, I'd love to hear any suggestions as to how you diplomatically tell your physician that he should be on the look out for std's without turning some shade of red.  Is there a Doctor in the house?

As the current solitary nominee for TER Health Czar, I would recommend a visit to the local county health clinic.  Depending where you live, the fee is small or non-existent.  Call their number for info, as they sometimes only do it certain days of the week. It'll be walk-in, first come-first served, so arrive EARLY.  They do a LOT of these, so they won't be shocked at you wanting the exam, like maybe you are expecting at your HMO doctor's office (I was embarrassed to see my regular doctor too).  The results come back fast, but you have to go in to get them.  I was lucky, all I had was a bad case of hypochondria.  Good luck to you!

back in my drinking days....lucky for me a dozen shots of tequila cleared it right up!LM

It really is no big deal.. just got to get past the  initial awkwardness.. I have Kaiser and see a variety of 'providers' there.. never has any of them even raised an eyebrow  when asked to run the Std tests, and I do it regularly. (They have me on record as being the married mother of 4 by the way)I get the feeling that they appreciate it when a patient can look them in the eye and come out with it..(or some version of 'it')Good luck!

The standard blood tests in conjunction with your physical usually do not screen for any type of std.  But as long as it is your private doctor (not that of your employeer as is the case with some company mandated physicals).  Most insurances (HMOs, etc) won't cover the costs, which is another subject altogether, but as Papercup pointed out there are places where you can be tested free of charge & with anonymity (if that's a concern).  You can find them in your local phone directory yellow pages.  Frankly,I can't see why you should be concerned about discussing the issue...I wouldn't.  A doctor probably has seen & heard it all before anyway--it is a completely common & normal concern.  Besides, after you get the the old rubber-glove treatment how much 'dignity' to you have left to lose?   Get yourself tested & eliminate your worry.  And may all your results be negative  

Another consideration, in addition to PC's comments, would be to check ot the Planned Parenthood Clinics. They try to be geographically-convenient, as there are several of them throughout the area. Normally they charge a nominal fee, but you can schedule appointments. Most test results are typically back within five days. Good luck.

I agree with Papercup about visiting a facility other than your regular doctor for std screenings, but for another reason. Anyone who has been rear ended and filed a claim against the other party's insurance company would know that all medical records up to 10 years becomes available to their attorneys, your attorney, their adjuster and staff, etc.I just feel that certain information, such as std tests and results should be afforded more privacy.I am not saying you should hide or lie about any illness... just that it may be more prudent to keep this kind of information less accessible.

local health clinic is where I usually take themodels for any of our adult films.  Resultswithin 24 hours, and usually under 75$ total.You also want a PCR/DNA test, which is the most accuratetest for HIV.UnholyPiratewww.allurepictures.com

CableGuy,The standard physical does not include a STD series.  So you will have to ask.  As to how to do that, just ask for an std screen and you will be surprised at how nonplus your doctor will be. The only issue would be if it is covered by your medical plan.  Then it might be a problem.But if you are still shy about your regular doctor the suggestion earlier about the state health clinics is quite good as state clinics have the procedure for STDs screenings perfected.JP--modified by JP at Fri, May 11, 2001, 12:47:05

so don't fear the man in white.chances are he' s got some big skulls in his closet too.grab your nuts and say :btw doc, check for this, this and this...i've been getting some unknown tail lately. thx"kill the syntax!---jBugs

Don't be bashful. If the MD does a normal physical he has the blood already so its just asking for the test results. He should do a manual inspection of your genitaila as a normal part of your physical. AID's test are confidential in most states. If you have any symptoms get tested, don't have sex until you know the results. If you don't have symptoms, you may be just feeling guilty about your behavior.

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Papercup,thanks for the advice. I am going to be tested also.  I forgot about those issues.  Excellent advise

Hi Intuitive.I do agree with you.  I also belong to Kaiser.  However, I also agree with Papercup on the legal and privacy issues he discusses. Once Kaiser has your records, they will be there for at least 10 years.  Should anything of contraversy show up you may have difficulty in the future.  A private test is the one for me.  Just a thought