HIV and STD screening or testing, and in the event of exposure, HIV post exposure prophylaxis (HIV PEP), are imperative for the prevention of transmission of STD or STI.
STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) are the bane of today’s society, and Singapore is definitely not immune to this problem. As a matter of fact, the rate of STD infection in Singapore has increased dramatically over the years. It’s important for sexually active people to understand that STDs and HIV are international health problems, and the best way to prevent getting the diseases is education. The following information will help you and your loved ones to protect yourselves.
Even though the number of individuals coping with HIV in Singapore is relatively small, the country’s reputation as an international business and travel hub, together with the large number of infectious diseases evident in bordering countries, create the potential for the country to encounter a far more severe epidemic in the foreseeable future. The majority of these STD infections are clinically diagnosed during HIV and STD testing in Singapore clinics, when the disease is already in the late or advanced stage, at a point when treatment should have already been initiated.
Obtaining Statistics
In the majority of countries, obtaining statistics for various STD infections as well as the total number of STD infected individuals is for the most part impossible, not only because the patients’ identities typically remain anonymous at times, but because many don’t seek treatment out of embarrassment.
In Singapore, according to the Infectious Diseases Act, many recently diagnosed STDs, especially HIV, are required to be reported to the Singapore Ministry of Health. Doctors are also responsible for the patient’s follow up and monitoring, as well as contact tracing (or ensuring sexual partners are appropriately contacted, tested and managed). The objective of this STD reporting is to provide treatment for infected individuals and their partners in an effort to limit the possible spread of disease. Even with their efforts, the Ministry admits that some cases do manage to get past them because of under reporting of STDs due to the fear and embarrassment mentioned above. While the system may be far from perfect, at least the majority of Singaporeans understand the risks faced due to the disease and that there are effective treatments available.
Sexual transmission continues to be the primary form of HIV transmission among Singaporeans with the majority of the cases transmitted through sexual intercourse. Among the recorded cases in 2013, approximately half of the new HIV cases were between the ages of 30 and 49 years of age with the majority (94%) being males and approximately 66% being single individuals.
Of note, more than 40% of these newly diagnosed HIV cases were at an advanced stage, thereby emphasizing the need for early HIV testing and STD screening.
In Singapore, all pregnant women would be screened for HIV/AIDS to stem the rise in new infections. There’s no doubt that HIV and STD testing in Singapore clinics will save lives.
Most Common STDs in Singapore
Gonorrhea is one of the most common STD in Singapore and can be transmitted through all types of sexual intercourse. If left untreated, the disease can have serious consequences. Other common STDs in Singapore include Chlamydia, genital herpes, genital warts, and non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU).
STD symptoms can include but are not limited to vaginal discharge, urethral discharge, painful urination, frequent urination, genital discomfort (including burning and itching), new skin growths, skin ulcers, fever, abdominal discomfort and/or swollen lymph nodes. In many cases, there aren’t any symptoms at all. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should make an appointment for a health screening at an HIV STD clinic in Singapore.
STD and HIV Testing and Screening in Singapore
STD screening starts with a consultation documenting all the relevant sexual exposure risks. Important details include the type of sexual activities, the number of partners, the date of the last sexual intercourse, and if any protective measures are used. This is followed by an evaluation of the symptoms being reported that suggest the patient may have an STD.
A physical examination is also required, which involves examining the genitalia and looking for any ulcers, sores, urethral discharges and more. This is typically followed by a comprehensive discussion regarding any necessary investigations as well as disease management.
Contact tracing of sexual partners is also very important to ensure that the STD is not spread to other potential partners. All sexual partners of the patient are likewise tested and treated.
STD Treatment
Bacterial STDs (for example Chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, etc.) can be remedied with antibiotics if treatment begins early on. Viral STDs (HIV, genital herpes, HPV/genital warts, Hepatitis B) generally aren’t curable; however they can be managed and controlled with medications. An HIV infection isn’t curable, and treatment focuses on optimizing CD4 levels and suppressing viral replication. Antiretroviral drugs are the standard treatment for HIV, usually made up of a combination of drugs referred to as a drug cocktail.
STD Prevention
A person infected with an STD can pass the infection to others via contact with the infective skin lesions, genitals, mouth, rectum and/or body fluids. Whether it is vaginal, anal or oral sexual intercourse, all these modalities can transmit STDs. The person with STDs may or may not exhibit symptoms or problems. Even when the person feels completely fine, he or she can still transmit STDs to his or her sexual partner.
The best way to prevent STDs and HIV is abstinence. However, realistically speaking, this probably isn’t the best measure for everyone. The next best option when it comes to safe sex is to only have one sexual partner in your lifetime and to remain faithful to him or her. The more sexual partners you have, the higher is the risk of acquiring an STD.
If your partner is infected with an STD, or if you don’t know your partner’s sexual history, the safest preventive measures are restricting yourself to foreplay activities, and/or the use of condoms.
Although the use of condoms does not provide 100% protection, it reduces the risk of STD transmission when used properly. In other words, sex with condoms is not completely safe, but less risky.
It must be emphasized that not all condoms are used for disease prevention – for example, novelty condoms. Condoms should be made of latex, or polyurethane for people with latex allergy. Ensure that the packaging of the condom you buy specifically says that it is for disease prevention. Also check the expiry date of the condom.
In a Nutshell
Be safe! Do not get drunk and lose your self-control!
Stay in a mutually monogamous relationship with a long-term partner. Learn to use a condom properly, and use it when necessary.
Get yourself tested early at an HIV STD clinic in Singapore. Ensure that you are free from any infectious sexually transmitted disease. If you have been exposed, or if you have failed to protect yourself, do consult our board accredited Family Physician concerning HIV Post Exposure Prophylaxis (HIV PEP), HIV and STD testing and screening.
