Frequently Asked Questions
Pregnancy
I already bought a pregnancy test at Wal-Mart. Do I need to come in and be tested with you?
SELAH’s pregnancy tests are free and confidential. Our lab quality tests are just like the ones you’d get in a doctor’s office or hospital. Home pregnancy tests are usually very accurate, but not always. Your health, as well as your baby’s health, is very important. If your test with us is positive, we can talk about scheduling an ultrasound to see if you have a viable pregnancy and for you to learn exactly how far along you are. These are the first important steps you’ll need to take to start considering your options for your best possible future.
I had sex last night and I think the condom broke. Can I come in today for a pregnancy test?
The hormones in your body that result in a positive pregnancy test can’t be detected until 9 to 11 days after fertilization. You just need to wait until after that period of time then call or come in, and we’ll provide a test.
I think I’m pregnant, but I’m using contraception. What should I do?
It is possible to become pregnant while using contraception like the pill or an IUD. You should discuss immediately with your prescribing provider about what you should do next. We can still see you at Selah for a pregnancy test and ultrasound if your test is positive.
Can I come in for a free ultrasound to find out the sex of my baby?
The purpose of the ultrasounds we offer is to confirm a pregnancy after a positive pregnancy test. We don’t provide ultrasounds just to determine the sex of the baby.
Can I get the morning-after pill at SELAH?
SELAH does not offer the morning-after pill, or Plan B. However, it’s important for you to rule out pregnancy from any previous sexual activity, so if that’s a possibility for you, feel free to schedule an appointment.
STIs
How are STI tests done at Selah?
At Selah, we provide limited STI testing to check for gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis. Tests are performed using urine or a self-collected swab from the site of exposure. These tests do not require a blood draw or physical exam. All testing is free of charge.
How do I get my results? What if the results are positive?
When you are tested, you will inform us of your preferred method of communication: email, phone or secure text message. You will be contacted whether your results are positive or negative. If your test is positive, your provider will discuss the necessary treatment with you. Another appointment may be needed to receive treatment. All treatment is free of charge.
If one of my partners tested positive and is being treated, can I come in and just get the antibiotics?
It is important for you to be tested regardless of your partner’s status. Under Colorado Law, we can dispense treatment to you in an appointment if your partner is positive under Expedited Partner Therapy policies, but you should still undergo testing.
How do I know if I’ve been exposed to a STI?
If you’ve been sexually intimate orally, anally or vaginally, you may have put yourself at risk for an STI. It’s really that simple.
What’s the difference between a STD and a STI?
STI stands for “sexually transmitted infection.” STD stands for “sexually transmitted disease.” A sexually transmitted infection (STI) is a virus, bacteria, fungus, or parasite people can get through sexual contact. STI is considered more accurate and less stigmatizing, as it emphasizes that an infection may not always lead to a disease. A sexually transmitted disease (STD) develops because an STI has led to some symptom of disease.
Can a condom protect me from a STI?
Condoms can only reduce the chance of infection with STIs like Chlamydia and Gonorrhea if used correctly each time. In addition, STIs like Herpes and HPV are also found on the external genitalia, a place condoms don’t cover, so condoms cannot protect from transmission of all STIs. The only guaranteed protection from STIs is refraining from any sexual contact.
If my testing at Selah is negative, should I have any other concerns?
Selah only performs limited STI testing. There are several other STIs that we do not check for in our clinic you may be at risk for. It is highly recommended that you see another provider that can perform a full panel of testing on you, which typically includes bloodwork and an exam.
How often should I get checked for STIs?
Any sexual contact could result in unintentional exposure to an STI. For most people, testing is recommended yearly. You should also get tested after a new sexual partner. In addition, if you have many sexual partners or participate in high risk behaviors such as IV drug use or selling sex for money, you should be tested more frequently.
Sexual Health
What does “after abortion support” mean?
The process of recovering from an abortion is different for everyone. SELAH offers sensitive and confidential support for women who have terminated one or more pregnancies and men who have been involved with an abortion, whether it was a recent abortion or many years ago. Please contact us if you have questions about our after abortion help.
If I’ve already had an abortion, what can you do to help me?
We want you to know you’re not alone. Sometimes that just means listening. We want to offer what you need to heal or find hope for a new day–unconditionally, and every person is different in the way they process an experience and what they need afterward. Simply call or email to learn what that might look like for you.
We do not offer or refer for abortions but we will be happy to answer any questions and provide any information you are seeking.
Can I get a PAP test at Selah?
We don’t provide that kind of medical testing, but we can refer you to some of the great clinics in our area and get you on your way to good health and peace of mind.
Can I get birth control at SELAH?
We don’t provide or refer for contraceptives. Each person is different in how you might respond to the many different types of birth control available. We encourage you to discuss that with your doctor.
I was at a party last night and when I woke up this morning I felt like someone might have taken advantage of me sexually. What do I do now?
First of all, no matter what the circumstances were, rape or sexual assault is NEVER the victim’s fault. Secondly, for both your physical and emotional health you need to seek immediate professional help. We encourage you to get a forensic exam at the Emergency Room as soon as possible. Advocates of Routt County can help you during this difficult time and even accompany you to your appointment if desired. Advocates 24/7 hotline: 970-879-8888.
Does Selah provide any other medical testing?
If you are female and have vaginal symptoms such as itching and discharge, you may be a candidate for vaginitis testing in addition to STI screening. Selah provides this testing for free.
Appointments
Can I just come in whenever, or do I need an appointment?
We want to make sure we have a special time set aside to talk with you so it’s usually best to have an appointment. Feel free to stop in any time, though, because we’re always happy to see you.
Do I need to bring anything with me to an appointment?
To protect your confidentiality, you’ll need to bring your valid photo ID. A driver’s license or student ID will work.
Can I bring a friend with me?
We understand needing friends during times like this. Feel free to bring someone along. We will meet with you personally at first, to give you the privacy you need for the intake process, but your friend will be able to join you later in the appointment when you feel ready for that. We’ll even give you tea or coffee to help you get comfortable. We want to be there for you, too.
How can I go see a doctor if I don’t have any insurance?
There are options available for people who need care even if they don’t have insurance. Selah will provide you with a free pregnancy test. If it’s positive, we can perform an ultrasound and provide a pregnancy verification form that can be used for Medicaid application at Department of Human Services.
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