Sexually Transmitted Diseases / Question
Published: June 11, 2002
Dear TeenHealthFX,
When you have blood taken, does the lab automatically check it for STDs?
Signed: Blood Work & STDs
Dear Blood Work & STDs,
The only time a person's blood is automatically checked for an STD is when someone donates blood. This is universal since ultimately that blood is to be used for someone else. Any blood designated for transfusion is carefully screened for the HIV virus and Hepatitis.
If you are interested in having a screening for sexually transmitted diseases and you live in the Northern New Jersey area you can contact the Adolescent Young Adult Center for Health at (973) 971-6475 or your local Planned Parenthood. In NJ, a teenager can be screened for STDs and discuss/get birth control methods confidentially without your parent's consent, and on low/no cost basis.
FX has answered many questions on STDs, so you can look through our sexuality category or do a keyword search and review them.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Teens who drink are more likely to be victims of violent crimes and sexual assault, have serious problems in school, be involved in drinking-related traffic crashes, and develop problems with alcohol later in life.
