Any sexually active person may contract a sexually transmitted disease (STD). It does not matter who they have sex with or how often. Everyone can contract an STD as long as they have sex, though the risks can increase with certain behaviour. In Singapore, the general public’s knowledge of STDs can be limited, as the topic is seldom discussed openly in families and relationships. As such, finding out what to do when you think you have an STD can be difficult. In this article, we will explain the steps you should take if you think you have somehow contracted an STD.
Looking for symptoms
If you think you have an STD, it is likely because you are experiencing a common STD symptom. Common symptoms include:
- pain when urinating
- pain during sex
- pain in the testicles (for men)
- discharge from the genitals
- itchiness, burning or tingling sensations in the genitals
- sores, lumps or blisters near the genitals, mouth, throat or anus
This list of symptoms is not exhaustive. There are many cases of STD patients who do not experience any symptom at all. As such, it is always recommended that sexually active patients get tested for common STDs frequently to keep themselves sexually healthy.
Do also note that bumps on the skin near the genitals may actually be caused by acne. However, it is still recommended to see a doctor to verify.
Getting tested
The best place to get tested for an STD is at an STD clinic in Singapore. These are clinics run by doctors who are trained in the diagnosis and treatments of STDs. While general practitioners can sometimes also provide you with a diagnosis, an STD clinic will provide you with a detailed confirmation, especially if you already suspect that you have an STD.
The process of testing for an STD is quite simple. Doctors will usually request for a physical inspection of the affected areas. They may also ask for a blood or urine sample. Once done, the results could be out in a matter of minutes or days. For instance, HIV testing clinics in Singapore can produce a test result in 20 minutes. You will soon know for sure whether you have contracted an STD.
Treatment
With your diagnosis, the STD doctor may prescribe you treatment in terms of antibiotics or topical medication. These depend greatly on the type of STD you have contracted and the medication needed to treat those STDs. For instance, antibiotics are very common for those diagnosed with chlamydia. Genital warts would instead need topical medication to destroy the virus in the wart. There are some STDs, like herpes and HIV, that have no cure. If you are diagnosed with these STDs, the doctor will be able to guide you on how you can best live with that STD in your life. The doctor will also be able to give you advice on how to go about your daily routine while avoiding as much pain as possible.
Conclusion
Those who think they have contracted an STD should seek medical advice and treatment as soon as possible. If you need to visit an STD clinic in Singapore, do contact Elyon Clinic at 6802 7208.
