You may suspect that you have a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Maybe one of your previous sexual partners told you that they have an STD, or you engaged in risky sexual behaviour. Or perhaps you just want to go for a routine check-up to ensure you’re in the pink of health. Whatever the reason, heading to an STD clinic in Singapore for STD testing can be a daunting process, especially if it is your first time doing so. To help you quell your worries and clear up your doubts, this short article will help you understand how the STD testing process works.
Stepping into the clinic
When stepping into an STD clinic in Singapore, you may be anxious. What if doctors ask worrisome questions? Or if you get a doctor of the opposite gender? What if your STD results are leaked to a government database, where future employers can see? These fears are warranted, and extremely common among anyone stepping into the clinic for the first time. You should note that all of these concerns will be addressed by the clinic. After registering for your consultation, you will meet with a doctor who is of the same gender, and the doctor will keep the entire process smooth and professional. All the information you give to the doctor are private and confidential, and will not be on a government database. Do step into the clinic with a peace of mind.
The doctor’s consultation
When you speak to the doctor for the first time, he or she will ask you some questions about your sexual history. This is normal, because they need to ascertain your risks of contracting certain STDs. It’s important that you do not lie about anything you say, including your usage of condoms, number of sexual partners, and the relationship between you and your sexual partners. The doctor may also ask you if you think you’re experiencing any symptoms of STDs, such as pain while urinating, recent high fevers, and ulcers in your throat or genitalia.
Then, with all this information, the doctor will test for STDs. This can happen in a couple of ways, including the drawing of blood, urine tests, and cotton swabs in the affected areas. These methods tests for different things. For instance, urine tests will test for chlamydia, while blood tests can test for HIV, syphilis and Hepatitis A and B.
This is also a good time to ask the doctor any questions you may have about STDs, how to prevent them, and the signs and symptoms. If you suspect your partner has an STD, you can ask the doctor for advice as well.
Results of the tests
You may get the results of some tests within half an hour of being in the clinic. But for most tests, you may have to wait a couple of days. The STD clinic may offer to mail you to results, send them via text, or you may have to make a trip down to collect the results.
Contact us for more information about various STDs.
