Sexually transmitted infections (often referred to as STIs or STDs), such as syphilis, HIV, or hepatitis are more common than one might initially think – however, the most common sexually transmitted infection is chlamydia. Generally, most of these diseases are well treatable, but in many cases, they can be transmitted unnoticed and be long-lasting.
Conducting a sexually transmitted infection test is therefore advisable, especially when changing sexual partners, to ensure one's own sexual health and protect others. How a sexually transmitted infection test can look and what you need to pay attention to, you can find out here.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases – Important Aspects
For 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 like 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. To receive an early diagnosis, address concerns, recognize possible symptoms, and begin treatment as early as possible, STD tests are particularly important.
Sexually transmitted diseases such as syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis are detectable in the blood, which is why a blood test is conducted. 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.
In case of suspicion of other diseases, a urine sample is collected in a sterile urine cup during the sexually transmitted diseases test, 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-void urine, midstream urine, and 24-hour collected urine. Before conducting the test, it is recommended that you clean your intimate area with water to avoid skewing the results.
Unlike the previously mentioned diseases, these pathogens spread on the mucous membrane and attack the surrounding area, allowing them to continue growing if the infection is untreated. In a urethral swab, bacterial cells are searched for. If superficial symptoms are visible, these ulcers or blisters in the genital and anal area are swabbed and identified.
Possible reasons for a sexually transmitted diseases test
If you are still unsure whether a test for sexually transmitted diseases is advisable for you, please contact your doctor or a counseling center.
1.
There are some criteria that can be used as a guide when considering a sexually transmitted disease test. Transmissible infections are spread through sexual contact, especially during unprotected intercourse via mucous membranes, saliva, and other bodily fluids.
2.
Do you have many different sexual partnersor have you changed your partner?If you have had unprotected sexual intercourse , it is important to prevent the further spread of transmissible infections and to gain certainty about your own sexual health. Untreated infections may only show their first symptoms after days, weeks, or even years. Even if you suspect that one of your former partners had a transmissible infection or it is confirmed to you, 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 have noticed changes such as blisters, ulcers, warts, or general skin changes in your intimate area , it is advisable to conduct an STD test as a precaution. Pain during urination can also be an indication of an infection.
4.
Even if you have concerns and atypical symptoms or infections and are seeking clarity, a sexually transmitted disease test is recommended. The faster communicable diseases are found and treated, the less severe the consequences.
Our most popular tests
STI Check Basic
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) often go unnoticed and can have long-term consequences. The STI-Check Basic enables a reliable examination – discreet, fast, and without a doctor's visit.
Precise Analysis:
- Tests for: Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Mycoplasma genitalium, and Trichomonas vaginalis.
- Early detection made easy: Detect infections in time and treat them specifically.
- Convenient & discreet: Easily collect a urine sample at home and have it professionally evaluated.
Good to know if everything is alright – for you and your partners.
For a more comprehensive analysis of 13 bacterial and viral pathogens, we recommend the STI-Check Complete.
STI Check Complete
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can go unnoticed and have long-term consequences. The STI-Check Complete offers a comprehensive analysis of 13 common bacterial and viral pathogens – discreet, reliable, and convenient from home.
Tested for:
- Bacterial STIs: Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Mycoplasma genitalium, Trichomonas vaginalis, Mycoplasma hominis, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Ureaplasma parvum
- Viral STIs: Herpes simplex (HSV1 & HSV2), Syphilis (Treponema pallidum), Haemophilus ducreyi, Varicella-zoster (VZV), Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
Your benefits:
- Early detection of STIs – even in asymptomatic infections
- Simple and discreet: Collect urine sample at home, access results online
- Medically precise laboratory analysis
Good to know what often goes unnoticed – for your own safety and that of your partners.
Comprehensive Check for Men
Many health problems remain unnoticed for a long time – gain clarity now with the comprehensive check-up for men.
- Comprehensive health check: Important values for blood count, cardiovascular system, hormone balance, and metabolism.
- Early detection made easy: Identify potential health risks before symptoms appear.
- Convenient & reliable: Easily take a blood sample from home and receive a professional evaluation.
A well-founded overview for men who want to actively monitor their health.
Comprehensive Check for Women
Many health changes remain unnoticed for a long time – the comprehensive check-up for women helps you gain clarity.
- Comprehensive health check: Analyzes blood count, thyroid, cardiovascular system, and hormone balance.
- Early detection made easy: Identifies potential imbalances early and supports your health care.
- Convenient & reliable: Easy sample collection from home with professional lab analysis.
For all women who do not want to lose sight of themselves.
Inflammation Check
Detect inflammation early - with our Inflammation Check.
- Important health markers: Analysis of CRP, cortisol, prolactin, and other relevant parameters.
- Early detection: Track down silent inflammations before they become a burden.
- Simple & reliable: Sample collection conveniently from home with professional lab analysis.
Because many complaints begin with silent inflammations – and clarity is the first step.
Untreated infections
In cases of untreated infections due to ignorance or neglect, severe consequences can arise.
The longer the viruses or bacteria remain in the body, the more they spread and damage the body. This can result in discomfort and pain during sexual intercourse. The infection can also spread to the extent that it damages organs and/or the heart and brain.
In the case of an untreated infection, it can also lead to infertility , inflammation, as well as some types of cancer or a severe immune deficiency . Of course, it is important to know what type of disease it is and how long ago the infection occurred. However, in principle, it is important to get an early diagnosis and to contain the spread of infections through an STI test.
Positive test – what now?
Anyone can contract a communicable disease. You should not panic, but first inform your recent partners and explain the situation. They should also get tested as soon as possible. Then inform your doctor and start your therapy so that symptoms and spread can be controlled, and in many cases, the disease can be completely cured.
With
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about STI Tests
What is a sexually transmitted disease test?
What is a sexually transmitted disease 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 one get tested for sexually transmitted diseases?
When should one get tested for sexually transmitted diseases?
A test is advisable after unprotected sexual intercourse, when changing sexual partners, or if symptoms such as discharge, pain, or itching occur.
Which diseases can be detected with a sexually transmitted diseases test?
Which diseases can be detected with a sexually transmitted diseases test?
Standard tests cover infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, trichomoniasis, genital herpes, and HIV. Depending on the scope of the test, additional infections can be detected.
How is a sexually transmitted disease test conducted?
How is a sexually transmitted disease test conducted?
Depending on the test, the sample collection is done through blood draw, urine tests, or swabs. With home test kits, you collect the sample yourself and send it to the laboratory.
Is an STD test possible anonymously?
Is an STD test possible anonymously?
Yes, many providers, including
How long does it take for results to be available?
How long does it take for results to be available?
The duration varies depending on the test and laboratory. Typically, results are 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 of the infections were observed.
What is the cost of a sexually transmitted diseases test?
What is the cost of a sexually transmitted diseases test?
The 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 an STD test important?
Why is an STD test important?
A test helps to detect and treat infections early before they lead to serious health problems or are transmitted to other people.
Can sexually transmitted diseases be treated by oneself?
Can sexually transmitted diseases be treated by oneself?
Some infections like chlamydia or gonorrhea can be treated with antibiotics, but treatment should always be carried out by a doctor to avoid resistance.
