Tests for STDs

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a major public health issue, affecting millions of people worldwide. These diseases are spread through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. It is important to understand the different types of STDs and the associated symptoms to prevent the spread of these diseases. Early detection and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are crucial for avoiding serious health problems. There are a variety of tests available for diagnosing STDs, including blood tests, urine tests, and swabs of affected areas. It is important to discuss testing options with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action. Let’s understand about the types of tests for STDs.

Also read- Awareness of STDs and AIDS – My Biology Dictionary

Who needs to have an STD test?

Being tested for STIs is a good idea if you’ve engaged in sexual activity. Get examined as well if

• You and your spouse are considering skipping the use of condoms or other barrier birth control techniques
• either you or your partner has several partners.
• You may have an STD if you have the symptoms.

You might not require routine STD testing if you’re in a committed, long-term relationship with a partner who has undergone testing as well.

TYPES OF STD’S

1.Bacterial STDs:

• Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that is most commonly spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Symptoms of chlamydia include burning during urination, discharge from the penis or vagina, and pain in the lower abdomen. If left untreated, chlamydia can cause serious health problems, including infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and pelvic inflammatory disease.

• Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is another bacterial STD that is spread through sexual contact. Symptoms of Gonorrhea include burning during urination, discharge from the penis or vagina, and painful bowel movements. If left untreated, Gonorrhea can cause serious health problems, including infertility, and pelvic inflammatory disease, and spread to other parts of the body, such as the joints and heart.

• Syphilis

Syphilis is a bacterial infection that is spread through sexual contact or by sharing needles with an infected person. Symptoms of syphilis include a painless sore, a rash, and flu-like symptoms. If left untreated, syphilis can cause serious health problems, including brain damage, blindness, and death.

2. Viral STDs:

• Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system and can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). HIV is spread through sexual contact, sharing needles with an infected person, or mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. Symptoms of HIV include flu-like symptoms, weight loss, and a rash. There is currently no cure for HIV, but antiretroviral therapy can slow the progression of the disease.

• Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

HPV is a virus that can cause genital warts and cervical cancer. HPV is spread through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. There is currently no cure for HPV, but vaccines are available to prevent certain strains of the virus.

• Herpes

Herpes is a viral STD that is spread through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Symptoms of herpes include painful blisters or sores on the mouth or genital area. There is currently no cure for herpes, but antiviral medications can help to manage symptoms.

3. Parasitic STDs:

• Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a parasitic infection that is spread through sexual contact. Symptoms of trichomoniasis include itching, burning, and discharge from the penis or vagina. If left untreated, trichomoniasis can increase the risk of contracting other STDs, including HIV.

• Scabies

Scabies is a parasitic infection that is spread through skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact. Symptoms of scabies include itching, red bumps, and rashes. Scabies can be treated with prescription creams or lotions.

Which STD tests should I must have?

One of the most critical things you can do to safeguard your health if you engage in sexual activity is to get tested for STDs. Ask your doctor if you should get checked for STDs, and be sure to have an honest discussion with them about your sexual history and STD testing. There are many clinics that offer private, cost-effective, or free testing if you feel uncomfortable discussing STDs with your normal healthcare physician. An overview of STD testing recommendations is provided below.

Overview of STD testing recommendations

• Every adult and child between the ages of 13 and 64 should undergo at least one HIV test.
• Every year, Gonorrhea and chlamydia tests should be administered to all sexually active women under the age of 25. Every year, Gonorrhea and chlamydia tests for women over 25 who have risk factors including new or repeated sexual partners or a partner with an STD should also be performed.
• Starting early in pregnancy, syphilis, HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C tests should be administered to all women who are pregnant. Starting early in pregnancy, those who are susceptible to infection should also be tested for chlamydia and Gonorrhea. Retesting can be necessary for some circumstances.
• All homosexual, bisexual, and other men who engage in male partners should undergo testing: for Gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis at least once every year. Tests should be administered more frequently to those who have several or anonymous partners (e.g., every 3 to 6 months).at least once every year for HIV testing, while more regular testing may be beneficial (e.g., every 3 to 6 months).If HIV-positive, at least once every year for hepatitis C testing.
• HIV testing should be done at least once a year for anyone who shares injection equipment or engages in sexual conduct that puts them at risk for infection.

Image source: https://www.umass.edu/uhs/services-and-programs/medical-care/sexual-health-stis-and-hiv

Tests for STDs

• Blood Tests:

Blood tests are used to diagnose a variety of STDs, including HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B. These tests detect antibodies produced by the body in response to the infection, indicating the presence of the disease. these tests are typically accurate and can be done in a healthcare provider’s office.

• Urine Tests:

Urine tests are used to diagnose Chlamydia and Gonorrhea. Urine tests detect the presence of bacteria in the urinary tract, indicating the presence of the disease.  these tests are simple and non-invasive and can be done in a healthcare provider’s office.

• Swab Tests:

Swab tests are used to diagnose herpes and trichomoniasis. Swab tests involve collecting a sample of fluid from the affected area, such as the mouth or genital area. The sample is then tested in a laboratory to detect the presence of the disease. Swab tests are simple and non-invasive, and can be done in a healthcare provider’s office.

• Pap Tests:

Pap tests are used to screen for cervical cancer and are recommended for women who are sexually active. A Pap test involves collecting a sample of cells from the cervix, which is then tested in a laboratory to detect the presence of abnormal cells. Pap tests can be done in a healthcare provider’s office.

• Genital Wart Tests:

Genital wart tests are used to diagnose genital warts, which are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). These tests involve a visual examination of the genital area to detect the presence of warts.

At-home STD test

Summary

STDs are a major public health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. It is important to understand the different types of STDs and the associated symptoms to prevent the spread of these diseases. If you think you may have an STD, it is important to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible to receive a diagnosis and proper treatment. To prevent

There are a variety of tests available for diagnosing STDs, including blood tests, urine tests, swab tests, Pap tests, and genital wart tests. It is important to discuss testing options with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action and to receive proper treatment. Early detection and treatment of STDs are crucial for avoiding serious health problems.

Thanks for reading! Hope you all got some awareness about the tests of STDs and Get tested today!

Team MBD

Additional reading: Which STD Tests Should I Get? | Prevention | STDs | CDC