Sexually transmitted infections or called sexually transmitted diseases require immediate attention to prevent the occurrence of severe health problems. The problems include cancer, blindness, infertility, and organ damage. According to the statistics provided by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, around 20 million people suffer from several sexually transmitted infections each year.
Unfortunately, many people do not receive the required treatment at the right time because of the absence of symptoms in the early stages. The humiliation surrounding the test to find out the presence of an STI also discourages from participation. However, testing is the only method to identify the presence of sexually transmitted infection.
Who Should Undergo Testing for STI’s?
A sexually active individual requires undergoing testing for sexually transmitted infections. Additionally, it becomes necessary to head to the test center if:
- You are beginning a new relationship
- You are not thinking about using condoms
- You or your partner has multiple partners
- You sure symptoms that suggest the presence of sexually transmitted infection
If you are already in a monogamous long-term relationship, you and your partner do not require regular testing to assess the condition. However, many couples never underwent a test before entering a relationship. If you belong to this category, then it is preferable to head for a test to ensure that there are no signs of disease.
What STD Can Be Found In a Urine Test?
Depending on overall health and sexual history, your doctor orders for a variety of tests to check for the presence of sexually transmitted infections, which includes physical exams, you are in tests, blood tests, and swabs.
A urine test is helpful in identifying the presence of sexually transmitted diseases or infections. A doctor can order a urine test along with blood test to check for:
In many of the situations, it is feasible that an individual may show negative results. The reason is that many of the infections transmitted through sex take a few weeks to a couple of months to develop into an infection. The best example of this scenario is HIV, where the time can range from a few weeks to few months.
Where Can You Take The STD Test?
If the doctor suggests you to take the STD test, head to the testing center immediately to identify the infection in the beginning stage. Such a step helps in developing a cure that reduces the advancement of the bacteria and kills it as time passes. You can take the test at a sexual health clinic. The doctor has to report a positive case to the government. With the help of the data provided by the doctor, the government keeps track of the individual, which will be helpful for public health initiatives. Notifiable STDs include:
You may come across a few online testing websites and at-home testing kits. Make it a point to avoid them because they do not provide accurate results when compared with that of the testing center. Furthermore, you can check with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) whether they approved the kits or the online testing facility.
Asking the Doctor
It is essential for you to ask your doctor to conduct an STD test. At the same point, you have to ask the doctor which test they are planning to refer and why. Taking care of sexual life is important, and one should not shy away from the same.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs).” https://www.cdc.gov/std/default.htm
- World Health Organization (WHO). “Sexually transmitted infections (STIs).” https://www.who.int/health-topics/sexually-transmitted-infections#tab=tab_1
- American Sexual Health Association (ASHA). “Getting Tested for STIs.” https://www.ashasexualhealth.org/stdsstis/getting-tested/
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