If you have a urinary tract infection (UTI) or a sexually transmitted infection (STI), prompt diagnosis matters. Rapid UTI and STI testing provide near-instant results, allowing you to receive treatment before your symptoms get worse. At NY Urology, with two convenient locations in Forest Hills and Midtown East, New York City, New York, board-certified urologist David Shusterman, MD, provides rapid UTI and STI testing on-site. To schedule an appointment, call the office or book a consultation online today

Rapid UTI/ STI Testing Q & A

What is a urinary tract infection?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a painful and annoying condition characterized by a strong urge to urinate, pelvic pain, and a burning sensation when urinating. It occurs when any part of your urinary system becomes infected, including the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra.

Anyone can experience a UTI, but they’re especially common in women. When left untreated, a UTI can lead to more serious health problems, like urethral narrowing or permanent kidney damage. If you suspect you have a UTI, seek treatment at NY Urology right away.

What is a sexually transmitted infection?

A sexually transmitted infection (STI) is an infection transmitted through sexual contact. Bacteria, viruses, and parasites can pass from person to person in bodily fluids like blood, semen, and saliva.

STIs don’t always present obvious symptoms, so you might be at risk and not even realize it. If you’re sexually active with multiple partners, undergoing routine rapid STI testing is an easy and effective way to protect yourself and those you care about.

What is rapid UTI and STI testing?

Rapid UTI and STI testing is an outpatient procedure used to determine if you have a UTI or an STI. Traditional testing for these issues took several days. First, your provider would collect a sample and send it to a laboratory. The laboratory would analyze the sample and determine your results several days later.

Rapid UTI and STI testing produce results almost instantly. You provide a urinalysis or blood sample in-office, and Dr. Shusterman analyzes it. Both tests use advanced technology that provides rapid results. This saves time, prevents the problem from getting worse, and allows for treatment right away.

What if my rapid UTI or STI test is positive?

If your rapid UTI or STI test provides a positive result, Dr. Shusterman develops a custom treatment plan to ease uncomfortable symptoms and improve your quality of life. If you have an STI, Dr. Shusterman might prescribe antibiotics or antiviral medication. He can also make recommendations that lower your risk of spreading the infection to your partner or partners.

If you have a UTI, Dr. Shusterman prescribes antibiotics. There are several antibiotics used to treat UTIs, including fosfomycin, cephalexin, and ceftriaxone. Dr. Shusterman can also provide tips on how to lower your risk of experiencing a UTI in the future.

To schedule your rapid UTI or STI testing appointment at NY Urology, call the office and speak with a friendly team member or book a consultation online.