Whether you are currently having symptoms that you think may be caused by an STI, or want STI screening/testing for other reasons, you can make a confidential appointment in person at the Keefe Health Center or by calling the appointment desk at (413) 542-2267.
We provide the following STI testing:
- Gonorrhea/Chlamydia: These can be diagnosed by either a urine sample/urethral or vaginal swab, oral or rectal swab whether or not symptoms are present. For the urine testing, it is important that you do not empty your bladder for two hours prior to the test, so the urine is concentrated. These tests are generally accurate 2 weeks after potential exposure. Results are available after several days.
- HIV, Hepatitis C, and Syphilis: These are diagnosed by blood testing done- and the blood draw can be performed at the Health Center. There are varying window periods for these tests (window periods are the time between when a person is exposed to a virus or bacteria and when the test is positive.) Talk to your Provider at your visit about specific details if you have questions. Results are available after several days.
- HSV (Herpes simplex virus): Herpes is generally diagnosed by a direct culture of a suspected lesion, in conjunction with clinical exam. Results are available within several days to a week.
If you test positive for an STI, we may be able to provide treatment throught the Health Center. If we are unable to directly provide treatment, we can help coordinate a referral to a specialist to initiate treatment.