Did you know that approximately 1 in 4 young adults have an STD? In fact, this could be more since most people who are infected are asymptomatic and haven’t been tested! Yes, STD testing in residents is important.
What are STD tests?
The majority of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are illnesses that are contracted during anal, oral, and vaginal sex. The causes of STDs might include viruses, bacteria, or parasites. Certain illnesses can be transferred from a woman to her foetus or through intimate physical contact, such as kissing. Some common STDs include Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Syphilis, Herpes, HIV, etc.
Also Read: What are the 10 Major Sexually Transmitted Diseases – STDs
How do I know if I have a STD?
You can have a STD if are involved in any of these activities- vaginal, anal or oral sex. You must visit a doctor and request testing if you have symptoms or suspect that you may have been exposed to a STD. The common signs and symptoms that you may notice with an STD include:1
- Unusual discharge or white or yellowish fluid (not semen) coming out from the penis or vagina.
- An unexplainable rash
- A burning sensation experienced when using the restroom or urinating.
- Warts, blisters, sores, or bumps on the genital area (In women – seen on the clitoris, vagina, and outer and inner lips; In men- seen on the penis and testicles).
However, there are many STDs that occur without any symptoms. Without testing, there is no way to know for sure, and therefore, STD testing ought to be a part of your routine examinations as well.
Importance of regular STD Testing
There are many reasons you should get tested for STDs. These include:
- Prevent spread of STD
Many STDs may be show no symptoms, may lie latent for years, or cause such mild symptoms that the infected individual never feels the need to get tested or treated. Identification in asymptomatic cases helps prevent further spread of infection to your partner(s) during sexual activity.
2. Avoid health issues that may rise due to STDs
If left untreated, some STDs can lead to severe lifelong health issues. This encompasses a range of concerns, such as reproductive problems, pelvic inflammatory conditions, ectopic pregnancies, and neurologic disorders etc. Women who have certain high-risk forms of the human papillomavirus (HPV) may even develop cervical cancer. Men who are infected with HPV may get penile cancer. In both sexes, HPV can also result in cancers of the mouth, throat, and anus.
A person is at risk for liver cancer if they contract viral hepatitis B or C, and they are also at risk for numerous rare cancers, such as lymphomas, sarcomas, and cervical cancer, if HIV/AIDS is left untreated.
3. Identify the type of STD
Most STDs present overlapping symptoms while some may be asymptomatic, posing challenges with implementing the right treatment. As mentioned, persistent infection can transfer to others, may flare up at any time or cause long-term health complications. Antibiotics can effectively manage STDs caused by bacteria or parasites. Antiviral medications can often alleviate symptoms and decrease the likelihood of transmitting the infection in viral STDs. Hence, regular testing is very important to identify the exact type of STD.
4. Detect STDs when least expected
Intimate skin-to-skin contact can also spread certain sexually transmitted diseases even in situations when there is no penetration. STDs like Human papillomavirus (HPV), syphilis, and genital herpes can frequently transmitted be through genital skin-to-skin contact.
Normal family contact can spread the HSV-1 type of herpes, which produces cold sores. This is why 3.7 billion individuals under 50 (67% of the world’s population) have the virus. Other STDs, such as HIV and hepatitis B, can also spread through blood
5. Take charge of your sexual health
Knowing your STD status is crucial because it makes you aware of your sexual health and allows for prompt treatment. Additionally, it encourages open communication between medical professionals and patients regarding sexual health, sexual orientation, and STDs, which helps improve your sexual health.
When should I take a STD test? Guideline on when you should take a STD test
If you’re sexually active, you’re at risk of developing a sexually transmitted disease and hence, STD testing may be beneficial. Further, you may be required to take a STD test when:
| Category | Test Recommended | Frequency of Testing |
| Women over 21 years of age | Pap smear (for HPV/ cervical cancer screening) | 3 years |
| Sexually active women under 25 years of age | Chlamydia Test Gonorrhoea Test | Every year |
| Sexually active women over 25 years of age | Chlamydia Test Gonorrhoea Test | Whenever new or multiple sex partners / partner diagnosed with HIV |
| Pregnant women | HIV Hepatitis B Chlamydia Syphilis. If risk factors present: Gonorrhea Hepatitis C | At least once during pregnancy |
| Sexually active men and women who have unprotected sex | HIV Other STDs | Tested as recommended |
| Men who have sex with men | Syphilis Chlamydia Gonorrhoea HIV | Every year (Men with multiple partners may benefit from more frequent testing) |
| People with HIV | Syphilis Gonorrhoea Herpes Chlamydia | Every year |
| Individuals who use injectable drugs. | HIV | Regular testing |
If you engage in sexual activity, you can lower your infection risk by having a long-term relationship with a partner who has been tested negative for sexually transmitted diseases and using latex condoms each time you have sex. Discussing with your healthcare provider about your risks of getting STIs is essential. Remember, prevention is always better than cure!
FAQs on STD Testing
Can I get an STD more than once?
Yes. Even if you have previously had treatment, bacterial diseases including chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and syphilis may recur. It is crucial you ensure that your partners are evaluated and tested for this reason.
Can STDs be treated?
Medication can be used to treat certain STDs, such as syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhoea. Even if you feel better after taking your medication, make sure to complete your course of medicine. It’s critical to keep in mind that each time you have intercourse without using a condom or with someone who has an STD, you run the chance of contracting the same or a different STD.
While there is no known cure for STDs like HIV and herpes, doctors might prescribe medication to treat their symptoms.
