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STD (Sexually Transmitted Diseases)
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) also known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections passed through sexual contact. Both men and women of all ages can get STDs. There are many types of STDs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV), and syphilis.
There are many reasons why STDs can be a problem. They can cause serious health problems and lead to long-term consequences such as infertility, loss of sexual function in both sexes, and even death. Also, they can cause social stigma and embarrassment.
The best way to prevent STDs is to practice safe sex. It means using condoms or other barrier methods during sex. If you think you have an STD, it’s important to get STD tests and see a healthcare provider to start the treatment.
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When is an STD Test Prescribed?
An STD test is prescribed when your doctor believes you may have been exposed to a sexually transmitted disease. It is essential to get tested because STDs can have serious health consequences, including infertility, organ damage, and even death. Early detection and treatment is the best way to prevent these outcomes. Your doctor might prescribe you an STD test if you’re showing any of the following symptoms:
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Unusual discharge from penis or vagina (foul smelling or strange colour)
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Pain while urinating
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Boils or lumps around the genitals
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Unusual bleeding from the genitals
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Itchy genitals
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Blisters or soreness around the genital area
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Rash around genitals
Why is STD Testing Important?
STD testing is essential because it can be the first step to prevent spreading of diseases like HIV, hepatitis, and syphilis. If you have unprotected sex with someone with one of these diseases, you can get infected too.
STDs are generally curable if diagnosed early enough. If left untreated, they may lead to serious health problems for the infected person or people they may come into contact with. Sometimes, someone can have an STD without showing signs or symptoms during sex. It is called asymptomatic infection or being "shedding" a a virus.?
The only way to know if you're shedding a virus is through a test performed by a doctor or practitioner who specialises in STD screening. The sooner you get tested, the sooner you'll know if you have an STD. And then you can start treatment right away.?
How is the STD Test Performed?
STDs can be diagnosed through various methods, including blood tests, urine tests, swab tests, and physical exams.
Most STDs can be tested by using urine or blood samples. Swab tests are the most accurate way to test for STDs as the infection may take more than a month to show up in the blood or urine after getting exposed to the virus. They involve taking a swab from the infected area and testing it for the presence of the STD-causing organism. Physical exams can also be used to diagnose STDs. Your doctor will look for signs and symptoms of STDs, such as sores, warts, or discharge.
If you think you may have an STD, it is crucial to see a doctor or other healthcare provider to diagnose and treat you properly.
Time Required for STD Tests Results
STD test results can take 1-10 days to arrive once the laboratory has received the sample. Once you have received your results, getting a consultation from the doctor is essential so that, if needed, you can start with the treatment as soon as possible. Hence, getting tested for STDs as quickly as possible is necessary if you think you may have been exposed to one. STD testing can be done at your local health department or a clinic. You can also get STD tests at home or online.
Metropolis Healthcare provides individual STD tests like VDRL for syphilis, HIV etc along with panel which combines different tests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Home STD tests are just as accurate as tests done at a doctor's office or clinic. The only difference is that your sample is collected at home for the test.
Most home STD tests require a urine sample. Some may also need a blood or swab sample. A lab technician will come home to collect the sample.
The results from a home STD test are usually available within a few days.
If you test positive for an STD, you have the infection. You will need to get treatment to clear the infection. If you test negative, you do not have an infection or should check again for confirmation.
The result of the STD test collected at home or at the lab would still be the same and hence are completely reliable.
Prior to being sexually involved, it should be ensured that you or your partner do not have an STD. However, if you're in a long-term monogamous relationship with a partner who doesn't have an STD, there's no need for you to be tested as well. But if you have multiple sexual partners, you must get an STD test.
Although most STDs can be cured with antibiotics, there are still some that cannot. For example, STDs caused by viruses such as HIV, HSV, etc., can only be managed with medications.
STD Tests Price vary depending upon the type of disease and the test conducted by the lab.