Do you wonder what happens during testing for sexually transmitted diseases like chlamydia and go disease? On Sexual and Reproductive Health Awareness Day, you know what to expect during your STI test.
Is casual sex something that you do frequently, with one or more partners, without protection? It can lead to sexually transmitted diseases or STIs. In fact, any sexually active person should take the STI test. Infectious diseases such as chlamydia, go disease, and syphilis do not always show symptoms at the early stages, so regular testing is required. However, you may have questions about the STI test. Are you confused as to what exactly happens with these tests and how often you need to take the test? We’ll talk about all of this on the occasion of Sexual and Reproductive Health Awareness Day, which will be held on February 12th.
What is a sexually transmitted disease?
Sexually transmitted diseases (STIs) are infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites that usually spread through sexual contact, including the vagina, anal, or verbal. “Some STIs can also be transmitted from birth mothers to babies through non-sexual means such as blood transfusions or reusable needles,” says Dr. Prachiba Singhar, gynecologist and obstetrician.
According to a study published in Statpearls in 2024, chlamydia, go disease, syphilis, trichomonas, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and human papillomavirus (HPV) are some of the common STIs.
What are the symptoms of STI?
Sexually transmitted diseases can cause a variety of symptoms, but sometimes they may not show any symptoms at all.
- Chlamydia: Burning during urination, abnormal vaginal discharge, and pelvic pain. However, there may be no symptoms.
- go disease: Yellow or green vaginal discharge, pain during urination, sore throat.
- syphilis: Painless pain, rashes in the palms and feet, flu-like symptoms.
- HIV: Flu-like symptoms, swelling of the tumor, weight loss, or no symptoms for years.
- HPV: No genital warts or symptoms
- Trichomoniasis: Itching, dirty drainage, pain during urination.
Which STI test is important to take?
According to a study published in the Journal of Sexually Transmitted Diseases in 2006, STI testing is important for screening and management, as most infected people are mild or have no symptoms.
1. Chlamydia
This is a bacterial STI that has a urine test. There is also a SWAB option. “The urine sample or swab is taken from the genital area,” says Dr. Sinhar. You cannot pee for 1-2 hours of tests to detect chlamydiatrachomatis.
2. go disease
It is another sexually transmitted disease caused by bacteria. Urine samples or swabs are taken from the private parts, throat, or rectum. Avoid urinating 1-2 hours before the test. It is used to detect Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria.
3. syphilis
It is a bacterial infection that usually spreads through sexual activity. Blood samples are taken from the veins of the arm to detect pale, pale bacteria that cause infections. “This test does not require any special preparation,” says Dr. Sinhal.
4. HIV
Blood tests can help you determine if you are affected by this sexually transmitted disease. “There are also oral swabs to detect HIV antibodies, or rapid finger induction tests,” experts say.
5. HPV
This is another common sexually transmitted disease, and in many cases there are no symptoms. PAP smears or HPV DNA tests, and neck swabs can be performed to detect high-risk HPV strains. “Please avoid wearing gender, vaginal dutch and tampons 24 hours before the STI test,” the expert says.
6. Trichomoniasis
A simple swab or urine test can help you determine whether there are any vaginal bone anas parasites in your body. “A swab or urine sample is taken from the vagina or urethra,” says the expert. You cannot pee at least 1-2 hours before a trial of trichomoniasis.
Who should go for the STI test?
Going to an STI test regularly is essential to maintaining sexual health. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The STI test must be obtained as follows:
- People between the ages of 13 and 64 should be tested at least once for HIV.
- Each year, sexually active women under the age of 25 should be tested for go disease and chlamydia.
- Moms should test for syphilis and HIV.
- Anyone who shares a needle should take the HIV test at least once a year.
- Anyone who has oral or anal sex should talk to their doctor about an STI test.
Regular testing is important so you can be treated on time. “Untreated STIs can lead to problems like chronic pelvic pain, pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy, and cervical cancer,” says Dr. Sinhar.
Can I perform the STI test at home?
Yes, STI tests can be performed at home using a self-test kit. These kits allow you to collect samples (urine, blood, or swabs) for your home privacy.
- Buy test kits from a reputable healthcare provider or pharmacy.
- Depending on your test, you may need to collect the following samples:
- Urine (in the case of chlamydia, go disease, trichomoniasis)
- Blood (Finger Phing) (for HIV and syphilis)
- swab (oral, vaginal, or anal) (for HPV, chlamydia, go disease)
Typically, you will need to send the sample to the lab. If you get a positive result, it should be reaffirmed by your doctor and immediately take medical opinions. Many sexually transmitted diseases do not show clear signs. They make STI testing important as they may remain silent for months or years.
Related FAQs
What is the best treatment for STIs?
Bacterial infections (STIs) can be treated with antibiotics, but early diagnosis is important. Viral STIs cannot be cured, but antiviral drugs can help control symptoms and reduce the risk of infection. Some STIs are caused by parasites or fungi and are easily treated with permethrin cream or special shampoos, as well as anti-fungal creams.
What happens if the STI remains open?
Untreated STIs can lead to serious complications such as infertility and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in the case of chlamydia and go disease. It can also cause chronic pain and organ damage due to syphilis.
