While sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) may be increasingly prevalent, STD testings are also becoming widely available to the public to combat this threat. Early detection is often key to treating these illnesses before they can develop further and weaken the human body.
However, there are various testing methods designed to detect specific STDs. Moreover, everyone’s medical history is unique. The type of STD test that is suitable for you may differ from someone else. Therefore, it is crucial for you to consult a doctor before getting your test done. In addition to scheduling a consultation with your doctor, you should also consider the following questions so you can determine the most appropriate test you should undergo.
Question #1: Do I belong to a particular risk group?
Depending on your gender, age group, and medical history, you may be more susceptible to a particular STD. Your doctor will be best equipped to advise you on the STD testing that is most suitable for you. Even if you are not at risk of any particular illness, it is still advisable to get yourself tested for common STDs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, hepatitis, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
Chlamydia and gonorrhoea screenings are generally recommended for the following risk groups:
- Women under the age of 25 years old who are sexually active.
- Women older than 25 years old who have sexual intercourse with a new partner or multiple partners.
Syphilis, hepatitis, and HIV testings are usually recommended for these particular risk groups:
- Those who have tested positive for another STD.
- Those who engage in sexual intercourse regularly.
- Those who use intravenous drugs.
- Women who are pregnant.
- Those planning on having a family.
It is vital to note that HIV antibodies generally take up to three months to develop in one’s body before a rapid test kit can detect them. Hence, regular screenings are recommended to ensure the disease is detected early.
Question #2: Which STD tests should I undergo?
Depending on your sexual history, your doctor may recommend various tests to detect any presence of STDs in your body. These tests include urine tests, blood tests, swabs, and physical examinations.
The collection of urine or blood samples is the most common testing method for most STDs. They are used to check for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, hepatitis, and HIV. However, blood and urine tests require a longer time to process. In rare cases, they may even be inconclusive. When this happens, your doctor may suggest undergoing a vaginal, cervical, or urethral swab. Vaginal and cervical swabs, in particular, are more accurate, as they directly pick up bacteria and cellular fragments from the organs themselves.
Should you be suspected of contracting herpes or genital warts, your doctor will conduct a simple physical examination to look for sores, bumps, and other signs of the disease.
Question#3: Where can I get tested for STDs?
Sexual health can still be a sensitive topic for many Singaporeans. It is perfectly understandable to feel shy about approaching a doctor to schedule an STD test. However, it is vital to remember that your doctor is only concern with protecting your health.
With the advancement in medical technology, STD testings are becoming increasingly available as clinics begin to roll out such services to the public. Depending on your personal preference, you may get tested with your regular family doctor in a comfortable setting where they are already familiar with your medical history or seek specialised treatment at a sexual health clinic.
Regardless of your decision, it is crucial that you choose a trusted and reliable clinic that is familiar with all the necessary procedures. To err on the side of caution, you should consider visiting a clinic that specialises in sexual health. The doctors are specialised in this field, and they are better suited to advise you accordingly.
Conclusion
With the increased risk of contracting an STD, it is becoming increasingly important for everyone to undergo an STD test to detect any early symptoms before the disease worsens. Thankfully, it is now more convenient than ever to get yourself tested, given the numerous clinics offering various tests to the public. However, before you schedule an appointment, do remember to consider the following three questions so you can determine the most appropriate screening available to you.
If you suspect you may be at risk of contracting an STD, don’t hesitate to schedule a health screening with Elyon Clinic. You can contact us at 6802 7208 to book an appointment today.
