Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) Testing

With the increasing spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) worldwide, regular STD testing has become essential, as early detection is key to prevention and treatment. In this article, we will highlight the importance of STD testing, its types, how it's conducted, preparation tips, and other important details, so keep reading.

What are STD tests?

Sexually transmitted diseases are infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites, transmitted from one person to another through sexual contact, blood, or other body fluids. If left untreated, these diseases can lead to serious and long-term complications. 

Therefore, doctors recommend routine STD testing for individuals at risk to diagnose infections early, begin treatment, and prevent spreading the infection to partners or from a pregnant mother to her baby.

STD testing includes a range of tests such as syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, HIV, hepatitis, and others. However, it is not necessary for everyone to undergo all tests; the doctor will select one or more based on a physical examination, symptoms, and risk factors.

An Overview of Sexually Transmitted Diseases

STDs are viral, bacterial, or fungal infections that are primarily transmitted through sexual contact. In some cases, they can be transmitted from a mother to her baby during pregnancy or childbirth or through blood transfusions. Here are some common STDs:

• Bacterial STDs: Examples include gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia.
• Viral STDs: Examples include herpes simplex virus, human papillomavirus (HPV), and HIV, which causes AIDS.
• Parasitic STDs: An example is trichomoniasis, which is caused by parasites.

When Should You Get Tested?

Certain STDs cause a range of symptoms, and testing should be done if any of the following appear:

• Painful urination.
• Pain during sex.
• Foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
• Discharge or itching from the penis.
• Vaginal itching.
• Sores and bumps in the genital, rectal, or oral areas.
• Swollen or inflamed lymph nodes, particularly in the groin area.

It’s important to note that symptoms do not always appear, and a person may be infected without knowing until complications arise or their partner is diagnosed. Therefore, it is essential for the following high-risk groups to get tested:

1. Pregnant women.
2. Women aged 21 or older for cervical screening.
3. Individuals who use injection drugs.
4. Those diagnosed with HIV.
5. People engaged in high-risk sexual behaviors.
6. Those with a history of STDs.

What Happens During the Test?

Depending on the suspected infection and the symptoms, the doctor may request a blood or urine sample or a swab from the mouth, cervix (in females), or any discharge or sore for testing. Here’s more detail:

• Blood Tests

Used to diagnose syphilis, HIV, and sometimes herpes. Blood is drawn from a vein in the arm using a small needle and collected in a test tube for analysis.

• Urine Tests 

Used to diagnose gonorrhea and trichomoniasis. The patient is asked to collect a urine sample in a cup for analysis.

• Swab Test

Suitable for diagnosing HPV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and herpes. A sample is taken from the affected area; for example, a swab is taken from the vagina or cervix in females, and from the penis or urethra in males.

• Lumbar Puncture

This test is uncommon for STDs but may be requested if advanced syphilis is suspected or if herpes infection affects the brain or spinal cord. The doctor injects a numbing agent into the back and then inserts a thin, hollow needle between two vertebrae in the lower spine to collect a small amount of fluid for analysis.

How Are the Results Interpreted?

A negative result indicates no infection, while a positive result confirms the presence of an infection. In this case, the doctor may request additional tests to confirm the diagnosis and then prescribe appropriate treatment. It’s essential to inform your partner so they can get tested as well.

At-Home STD Testing

Home tests are available for many STDs, including gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, trichomoniasis, and hepatitis C. These involve pricking the finger to collect a drop of blood, collecting a urine sample, or taking an oral swab to be sent to a lab for analysis, with results provided via mobile phone.

Blazma offers home STD testing services, ensuring high privacy through STD Disease Test Package (PCR) or General STD Disease Test Package or specific STD testing, such as syphilis, chlamydia, and others.