When scheduling regular checkups with your doctor, an STD test may be low on your list of priorities. As a fit and healthy person, the thought of contracting a sexually transmitted disease (STD) may not have crossed your mind, especially when you have been practising safe sex.
While following these practices reduces your risk of getting an STD, there are still various ways to transmit these diseases other than through sex. Therefore, it is crucial for you to include STD testing into your routine health checkups. Let us explore the importance of these regular screenings and what you should note when broaching this subject with your doctor.
Why you need to get tested
Many STDs do not reveal any sign or symptom, so you may not even realise you are infected. However, you can still pass on the virus to your sexual partner despite being asymptomatic. Therefore, it is vital to preemptively test for them before the condition worsens and creates more complication. It is inadvisable to wait for symptoms to show up before taking actions, as it may then be too late to treat the disease.
Common STD tests you can ask for
It is not feasible to test for every STD, but it is best to schedule tests for the common ones. If you suspect you are at risk of a particular STD, you can request to undergo that specific test. To give you a better idea of what to expect when scheduling your appointment, STD screenings are typically divided into two categories: viral and bacterial/fungal tests. It’s best to talk to your doctor about which STD test you should go for depending on your background and risk factors.
Viral STD tests
- Herpes screening
- Hepatitis screening
- HIV screening
- HPV screening
Bacterial and fungal tests
- Syphilis testing
- Chlamydia testing
- Gonorrhoea testing
Things to note when you are at the doctor’s office
- Be honest in your answers
The topic of sex may not be an easy subject to talk about. Nevertheless, the doctor is obligated to ask you several questions regarding your recent and past sexual activities as well as your symptoms. It is natural to feel a little embarrassed when answering these questions. However, it is crucial that you remain honest with your answers and provide your doctors with any relevant information to aid them with their assessment.
- Ask questions and request clarifications
Do not hesitate to ask any questions or request further clarifications when you are unsure of something. The doctors are there to help you identify, and when necessary, treat the disease. They will do their best to explain the specifics of the testing process and put you at ease.
Conclusion
Sex and STDs are typically sensitive topics to discuss, but it is still important for you to talk about them since they affect your health. If you are sexually active, make a regular visit to an STD clinic and get tested for your peace of mind. It is also a responsible thing to do to ensure you are a safe sexual partner.
At Elyon Clinic, we provide a confidential screening process for our patients’ comfort and privacy. If you think you may be at risk, do not hesitate to schedule a screening. You can contact us at 6802 7208 and book an appointment today.
