Published on Apr 18, 2023 | 1:20 PM
Share Article :
In certain clinical situations, sexually transmitted disease (STD) treatment without testing is considered medically appropriate and consistent with current public health guidelines. This approach is called empiric treatment.
Empiric treatment is commonly used when:
A patient has classic STD symptoms
A recent sexual partner tested positive
Testing is unavailable or delayed
Immediate treatment is needed to prevent complications or transmission
Based on current CDC-aligned practice standards, providers may prescribe treatment without testing for:
Chlamydia
Gonorrhea (often treated with dual therapy when indicated)
Trichomoniasis
This approach is especially common in cases of known exposure or high-risk symptoms.
Delaying treatment may increase the risk of:
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
Infertility
Chronic pelvic pain
Ongoing transmission to partners
Treating promptly can reduce complications and help protect public health.
With telehealth platforms like CallOnDoc, patients can:
Complete a confidential medical questionnaire
Be reviewed by a licensed clinician
Receive treatment when clinically appropriate
Avoid unnecessary delays, stigma, or in-person visits
Patients are often advised to follow up with testing when feasible and to notify partners.
updated 1/15/2026 Shelly House, FNP, is a Family Nurse Practitioner and Call-On-Doc’s trusted medical education voice. With extensive experience in telehealth and patient-centered care, Ms. House is dedicated to making complex health topics simple and accessible. Through evidence-based content, provider collaboration, and a passion for empowering patients, her mission is to break down barriers to healthcare by delivering clear, compassionate, and practical medical guidance.
Risks Associated With Leaving STDs Untreated
Leaving sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) untreated can have serious consequences, as many STDs can lead to long-term health complications such as infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, and an increased risk of HIV transmission. Additionally, some STDs can progress silently without noticeable symptoms, emphasizing the importance of early detection and treatment to prevent further health risks and potential transmission to others.
Jun 29, 2022 | 3:37 PM
Read More
The Problem with Antibiotic Resistant STDS
Antibiotic-resistant sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections that no longer respond reliably to medications that were once effective. Resistance develops when bacteria adapt and survive despite antibiotic treatment, making infections harder to treat and increasing the risk of complications and spread.
Antibiotic resistance is a growing public health concern worldwide and directly affects how certain STDs are diagnosed, treated, and managed today.
Sep 15, 2023 | 2:01 PM
Read More
Call-On-Doc Focus: What Are the Chances of Catching an STD When Traveling?
Understanding Risk Factors, Prevention, and When to Get Tested
Travel often involves changes in routine, social settings, and decision-making. Factors such as new sexual partners, alcohol use, unfamiliar environments, and reduced access to healthcare can increase the likelihood of unprotected sex and delayed testing, raising the risk of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
Risk does not come from travel itself, but from behaviors that may occur more often while away from home.
Mar 14, 2024 | 11:42 AM
Read More
Risks Associated With Leaving STDs Untreated
Leaving sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) untreated can have serious consequences, as many STDs can lead to long-term health complications such as infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, and an increased risk of HIV transmission. Additionally, some STDs can progress silently without noticeable symptoms, emphasizing the importance of early detection and treatment to prevent further health risks and potential transmission to others.
Jun 29, 2022 | 3:37 PM
The Problem with Antibiotic Resistant STDS
Antibiotic-resistant sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections that no longer respond reliably to medications that were once effective. Resistance develops when bacteria adapt and survive despite antibiotic treatment, making infections harder to treat and increasing the risk of complications and spread.
Antibiotic resistance is a growing public health concern worldwide and directly affects how certain STDs are diagnosed, treated, and managed today.
Sep 15, 2023 | 2:01 PM
Call-On-Doc Focus: What Are the Chances of Catching an STD When Traveling?
Understanding Risk Factors, Prevention, and When to Get Tested
Travel often involves changes in routine, social settings, and decision-making. Factors such as new sexual partners, alcohol use, unfamiliar environments, and reduced access to healthcare can increase the likelihood of unprotected sex and delayed testing, raising the risk of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
Risk does not come from travel itself, but from behaviors that may occur more often while away from home.
Mar 14, 2024 | 11:42 AM
Feedback from our amazing patients!
"I can’t believe I did not know about this kind of service! This was absolutely perfect for my health concern and they were able to provide me with the necessary medication and with such cinch. Completely recommended this service. For minor health concerns, this can save you an unnecessary and costly trip to an urgent care center."
"Amazing!! Easy and fast! I didn’t have to take my 4 year old into an urgent care where only god knows what germs are there. The doctor sent the script right to my pharmacy within minutes!!!"
"I would give 10 stars if I could! CallonDoc is literally the reason I am recovering instead of suffering as I write this. I was skeptical at first, but I’m not kidding when I tell you I got prescribed my antibiotics and picked it up at the pharmacy within 2 hours. So instead of waiting & paying around 300$...I paid 40$!! I’m very pleased."
Be the first to know when we offer deals.
Want to learn about a specific topic or condition?