STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections): Why Regular Testing Matters

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), formerly called sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), are caused by organisms transmitted between sexual partners through oral, anal, or vaginal contact.

STIs affect people of all ages, backgrounds, and lifestyles — and while many can be prevented with proper education and barrier protection, they remain a significant public health concern.

Common STIs include both curable infections such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and trichomonas, as well as treatable conditions like herpes simplex virus (HSV), human papillomavirus (HPV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).‍

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Symptoms to Watch For

Most STI symptoms fall into two categories:

• Discharge or painful urination (dysuria)
• Ulcerative lesions or sores
  

However — and this is critical — many STIs cause no symptoms at all in the early stages, allowing infections to go undetected and spread unknowingly.

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Why STI Testing is Essential

Because many STIs can be “silent” infections, regular testing is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and others. Early detection:

• Allows for timely treatment before complications occur
• Reduces the risk of long-term health problems such as infertility or chronic pain
• Helps prevent spreading infections to sexual partners

At Bayside Laboratories, we understand that quick, accurate results are key to effective treatment and public health protection. That’s why we offer a comprehensive Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Panel designed to screen for a wide range of pathogens — all with advanced molecular testing methods.

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The Bayside Laboratories STI Panel

Our comprehensive STI Panel detects 14 different organisms and 4 antibiotic resistance targets, giving healthcare providers the tools they need to make informed treatment decisions.

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Specimen Collection Options:

• Urine sample (minimum 3 mL) collected via clean-catch method
• Multi-test swab (Aptima or equivalent) for targeted site testing
  

Approved collection containers:

• C&S Tube with preservative
• Sterile Urine Transport Tube
• Aptima Multi-test device
  

Storage: Room temperature or refrigerated (2–8°C) until pickup

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Advanced PCR Testing Technology

We use Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technology — one of the most sensitive and specific molecular techniques available for infectious disease detection. PCR amplifies targeted DNA sequences from even the smallest traces of pathogen genetic material, enabling accurate identification even in early or low-level infections.

Fast Turnaround Times

We know time matters. Bayside Laboratories delivers STI panel results within 24–48 hours from specimen pickup, with confirmatory or reflex testing performed as needed based on patient results. If you are looking for the Best Lab in New York for STI testing with a quick turnaround, Bayside Laboratories is your trusted partner.

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Medical Necessity & Custom Panels

Our approach emphasizes clinical relevance — ordering only the tests needed for diagnosis or management. While our standard STI Panel is comprehensive, we also offer 100% customizable testing so providers can:

• Order individual tests
• Build a panel tailored to a specific patient’s risk profile or symptoms

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Protecting Your Health and Your Community

STIs remain underdiagnosed, especially in underserved populations. Regular screening, early treatment, and education are essential to reducing infection rates and preventing serious complications.

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At Bayside Laboratories, we are committed to supporting healthcare providers and patients with high-quality, confidential STI testing services. Our combination of advanced technology, quick turnaround, and customizable panels ensures that every patient receives the right test at the right time.

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📞 Healthcare Providers: Contact us today to learn more about our STI testing services and how we can integrate them into your practice.