Starting a new relationship or planning to conceive? An STD check should be at the top of your list! While it might feel intimidating, understanding the testing process can make it much smoother. Don’t wait—dive into our blog to learn everything you need to know and take control of your health today!
STD Testing: A short overview
Before going into the procedure part, let’s quickly understand what ‘STD Testing’ means. As the name suggests, it is a diagnostic procedure in which clinicians determine the presence of sexually transmitted infections. Simple! An STD check helps to detect symptoms if an individual has already contracted the infection. This helps prevent disease from spreading and contributes to better community health. However, many STDs are tricky enough not to present any visible symptoms. This leads to a significant rise in untreated cases till they get severe and contribute to mortality. Do not worry – you are not alone. Continue reading this blog until the end if you want a disease-free sexual life and make the most out of it! It explains the various tests involved in an STD check plus guides you regarding essential steps before it.
What tests are typically involved in an STD check?
Swab tests
This test uses a cotton swab to collect a sample from the private region, like the vagina, urethral opening or anus. These tests are particularly beneficial for infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea. Also, they help in detecting syphilis, herpes, etc. For individuals who have developed genital sores or ulcers, the clinician will directly put the cotton swab over the infected region.
Urine analysis
It involves collecting a small amount of urine sample into a sterilised container. Upon getting a small cup from the doctor, the patient goes to the bathroom for urine collection. The patient must wash both hands before and after collection, without fail! Besides, there may be other specific guidelines regarding collection. A urine analysis is generally used for detecting STDs like chlamydia, trichomoniasis, gonorrhoea, etc.
Blood examinations
Certain STDs may require a blood analysis, such as HIV, syphilis, herpes, hepatitis, etc. The clinician will inject a sterilised needle into one of the arm veins to draw blood. Post-collection, the blood is put within a small vial or test tube and sent for lab analysis.
Who can get an STD test?
Practically, anyone! However, those who are young adults (within the age of 21- 35) should get themselves tested without fail! Ask why? This is because people attain the marriageable age or get into sexual relationships by that time. However, certain people are at a high risk of contracting STD infections, such as:
- Those who are bisexual or involved in a same-sex relationship
- Individuals practising unprotected sexual intercourse
- Who frequently changes partners
- Couples planning for a baby
Signs and symptoms of an STD
Typical symptoms of an STD infection are:
- Unusual discharge from the vagina and penis
- Abnormal bleeding
- Pain while urinating
- Burning rashes over the genitals, hands, or feet
- Open sores, genital warts, painful lumps in the anus or external genital organs
However, certain STDs do not present any symptoms. Then, it becomes vital to consult a certified GP for a quick STD test.
What to expect during an STD testing?
During an appointment, the clinician will first ask questions relevant to your sexual health and history. This may embarrass many; however, remember that clear communication is the ultimate way to obtain proper treatment. We enlist some typical inquiries, and they are as follows:
- When was the last time you had sex with?
- How many persons have you been in physical relations with?
- If you are sexually active with males, females or both?
- Do you have single or multiple partners?
- How long have you been in a relationship with your current partner or partners?
- Do you take drugs?
- Have you ever been physical with a person taking drugs?
- Do you use protection or not? If yes, what kind of?
- If you are planning to have kids?
Be assured that the doctor will maintain utmost confidentiality while assessing your sexual health. And the positive news is that many STDs are curable and do resolve if treated on time!
How do you prepare before going for an STD test?
Getting nervous or scared is very common before opting for an STD check (especially if one is new). The fears typically arise from – whether the results will be normal, if the test will be painful, etc. Here lies the importance of knowing the steps beforehand! But before that, let’s clarify the dos and don’ts before visiting the clinic.
Dos
- Make a list of medications you are currently taking (especially birth control pills and micronutrient supplements).
- Note down the symptoms you are presently experiencing. Also, do not forget to mention the duration.
- Take down notes on the presence of allergies.
- Drink water sufficiently.
- Take light foods before going for the test.
Don’ts
- Pee for at least one hour before the STD test. (if the test requires a urine sample)
- Use ointments or creams over the private parts.
- Douche the vagina. (for females)
How long does it take to deliver the results?
This depends upon the type of test performed. Certain diagnostic labs conduct the analysis and deliver the outcomes on the same day. However, some may take several days or weeks. It is better to stay calm and not overthink till the results come out. Consider obtaining mental support from a trusted friend or family member during this period.
What do you need to do if tested positive for an STD?
First of all, do not panic. If you are tested positive, consult your healthcare provider so that he can guide you regarding the treatment plan. Also, additional tests may be prescribed to check for complications. The next important thing to do is to have a clear conversation with your partner. Even if it may seem challenging, you must not refrain from approaching it. This can save you and your partner in the long run by leading to an informed decision about your future life.
Conclusion
If you are sexually active and worried about contracting potential infections, do not sit back. Visit here to book your appointment for STD testing today and ensure a healthy sex life tomorrow!
