Sexually transmitted diseases (often referred to as STIs or STDs), such as syphilis, HIV or hepatitis , are more common than you might initially think - but the most common STD is chlamydia . In general, most of these diseases are easily treatable, but in many cases they can be transmitted unnoticed and have long-lasting effects.
It is therefore advisable to take a sexually transmitted disease test, especially if you change sexual partners, in order to ensure your own sexual health and protect others. You can find out what a sexually transmitted disease test might look like and what you need to look out for here.
Sexually transmitted diseases – important aspects
When it comes to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), it is important to distinguish whether it is a bacterial infection, such as chlamydia, syphilis or gonorrhea, or a viral pathogen such as herpes (HSV-2), hepatitis B or HIV. Not every disease is equally curable - in some cases, such as genital herpes and hepatitis B, the viruses can be contained, but remain in the body for life. STD tests are particularly important in order to get an early diagnosis, clarify concerns, recognize possible symptoms and start treatment as soon as possible.
Sexually transmitted diseases such as syphilis, HIV and hepatitis can be detected in the blood , which is why a blood test is carried out. The skin area is disinfected and the blood sample is taken in a few minutes and sent to the laboratory to be tested for the corresponding antibodies and antigens.
If other diseases are suspected, a urine sample is collected in a sterile urine cup or a swab is taken to detect fungi and bacteria.
There are different types of urine tests , each using a different form of urine: first-stream urine, midstream urine and 24-hour urine collection. Before performing the test, it is recommended that you clean your intimate area with water so that the result is not distorted.
Unlike the diseases mentioned above, these pathogens spread across the mucous membrane and attack the surrounding area, meaning they can continue to grow if the infection is left untreated. A urethral swab is taken to look for the bacterial cells. If superficial symptoms are evident, these ulcers or blisters in the genital and anal area are swabbed and identified.
Possible reasons for a sexually transmitted disease test
If you are still unsure whether a test for sexually transmitted diseases makes sense for you, contact your doctor or a counseling center.
1st
There are a few criteria to consider when considering a sexually transmitted disease test. Transmissible infections are spread through sexual contact, especially during unprotected sex through mucous membranes, saliva and other bodily fluids.
2nd
Do you have many different sexual partners or have you changed partners? If you have had unprotected sex , it is important not to give the further spread of communicable infections a chance and to be certain about your own sexual health. Untreated infections may not show their first symptoms for days, weeks or even years. Even if you suspect that one of your former partners had a communicable infection or it is confirmed, a test for sexually transmitted diseases (STI test, STD test) is advisable.
3.
If you suspect that you are suffering from an acute infection or if you have noticed changes such as blisters, ulcers, warts or general skin changes in your genital area , then you should carry out a sexually transmitted disease test to be on the safe side. Pain when urinating can also be an indication of an infection.
4th
Even if you are worried and have atypical symptoms or infections and are looking for clarity, a sexually transmitted disease test is recommended. The faster transmissible diseases are found and treated, the less serious the consequences are.
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Untreated infections
If infections are left untreated due to ignorance or disregard, serious consequences can arise.
The longer the viruses or bacteria are in the body, the more they spread and cause damage to the body. This can cause you to feel unwell and experience pain during intercourse. The infection can also spread to the point where it causes damage to organs and/or the heart and brain.
If an infection is left untreated, it can also lead to infertility , inflammation, some types of cancer or a severe immune deficiency . Of course, it is important to consider what type of illness it is and how long ago the infection occurred. In principle, however, it is important to get an early diagnosis and to limit the spread of infections by taking an STI test.
Positive test – what now?
Anyone can become infected with a communicable disease. You should not panic, but first tell your last partners and explain the situation. They should also get tested as soon as possible. Then inform your doctor and start your treatment so that symptoms and spread can be controlled, but in many cases the disease can also be completely cured.
With Probatix it is now very easy to have a sexually transmitted disease test carried out and checked regularly.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about STI testing
What is an STD test?
What is an STD test?
A sexually transmitted disease test checks for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis or HIV. Blood, urine or swabs are tested to detect an infection.
When should you take a sexually transmitted disease test?
When should you take a sexually transmitted disease test?
A test is advisable after unprotected sex, when changing sexual partners or if symptoms such as discharge, pain or itching occur.
Which diseases can be detected with a sexually transmitted disease test?
Which diseases can be detected with a sexually transmitted disease test?
Common tests cover infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, trichomonads, genital herpes and HIV. Depending on the scope of the test, other infections can be detected.
How is a sexually transmitted disease test performed?
How is a sexually transmitted disease test performed?
Depending on the test, the sample is taken by blood, urine tests or swabs. With home test kits, you take the sample yourself and send it to the laboratory.
Is it possible to get a sexually transmitted disease test anonymously?
Is it possible to get a sexually transmitted disease test anonymously?
Yes, many providers, including Probatix, offer discreet and anonymous testing. Home test kits are particularly discreet and easy to use.
How long does it take to get results?
How long does it take to get results?
The duration varies depending on the test and laboratory. Results are usually available within a few days.
How reliable are sexually transmitted disease tests?
How reliable are sexually transmitted disease tests?
Modern tests are very reliable, provided the sample was taken correctly and the detection times for infections were observed.
How much does a sexually transmitted disease test cost?
How much does a sexually transmitted disease test cost?
Costs depend on the scope of the test and the provider. Individual tests are often cheaper, while comprehensive test panels can be more expensive.
Why is a sexually transmitted disease test important?
Why is a sexually transmitted disease test important?
A test helps detect and treat infections early, before they cause serious health problems or are passed on to other people.
Can you treat sexually transmitted diseases yourself?
Can you treat sexually transmitted diseases yourself?
Some infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhea can be treated with antibiotics, but treatment should always be carried out by a doctor to avoid resistance.
