How Do STD Tests Work?

A standard STD test typically includes:

• Physical examination: A visual inspection of the genital area.

• Medical history: Questions about sexual history and symptoms.

• Laboratory tests:
• Chlamydia and Gonorrhea tests
• Syphilis test
• HIV test
• Hepatitis B and C tests
• Herpes simplex virus test
• Trichomonas vaginalis test

Additional tests may include:

• Urinalysis
• Blood tests
• Pelvic exam (for women)

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that anybody who has had any kind of sexual activity should get an STD test. Some people have a higher risk of contracting a disease and should get tests more frequently. These groups include:

• People who don’t use a condom
• Those with multiple sex partners
• Those who have sex with someone who has an STD
• Teenagers and young adults, as they are at higher risk for certain STDs
• Pregnant women can pass STDs to their baby during childbirth
• Women who are sexually active and are under 25 years old, as they are at higher risk for cervical cancer caused by HPV

Always remember those who have been diagnosed with an STD need to get retested regularly to ensure that they are no longer infected.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone who is sexually active get tested for the following common STIs:

• Chlamydia: a bacterial infection that can cause symptoms such as abnormal discharge, burning sensation while urinating, and painful sex.
• Gonorrhea: a bacterial infection that can cause symptoms such as thick, yellow, or green discharge, burning sensation while urinating, and pain in the pelvis or abdomen.
• Syphilis: a bacterial infection with a painless sore or rash that, if not treated, could end up with some serious health complications.
• HIV (human immunodeficiency virus): a viral infection that goes after the body’s immune system and could end up with AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) if left untreated.
• Hepatitis B and C: Viral infection that could lead to liver damage and could also lead to liver cancer not treated.
• Herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1 and 2: viral infections that cause blisters or sores on the genitals, mouth, or anus.
• Trichomonas vaginalis: a parasitic infection that causes symptoms such as itching, burning sensation while urinating, and abnormal discharge.

Additionally, women under 25 years old should also get tested for HPV (human papillomavirus) as they are at higher risk for cervical cancer caused by HPV. Men who have sexual relations with other men could also benefit from testing for HPV.

Always remember that some STIs might not cause any symptoms at all, so it’s essential to get tested frequently even if you aren’t experiencing any symptoms. The CDC recommends that everyone who is sexually active get tested every year.

STD tests can vary in terms of discomfort and pain, but most are generally not painful. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

• Urine tests: These are usually the most comfortable and painless. You’ll need to urinate into a cup, and the test will detect the presence of certain bacteria or viruses in your urine.
• Blood tests: Some STD tests require a blood draw, which may cause a slight pinch or stinging sensation as the needle is inserted. However, this is usually over quickly and is relatively mild.
• Swab tests: These tests involve collecting a sample of cells from your genital area using a cotton swab. This can be slightly uncomfortable, especially if you’re not used to having a swab inserted into your genital area. However, the sensation is usually brief and mild.
• Rectal and throat tests: If you’re being tested for anal or throat infections, you may experience some discomfort or pressure as the healthcare provider collects the sample. However, this is usually brief and not excessively painful.

To minimize any discomfort, you can:

• Take deep breaths and relax
• Have a trusted friend or partner with you for support
• Discuss any concerns or anxiety with your healthcare provider beforehand

Remember, getting tested for STDs is an important step in maintaining your sexual health and well-being. The discomfort is usually temporary, and it’s worth it to ensure your health and safety. For more information, please contact us or simply walk in. We are conveniently located at 4272 W. Vienna Road Clio, MI 48420. We serve patients from Clio MI, Montrose MI, Birch Run MI, Mount Morris MI, Beecher MI, Genesee County, MI, and surrounding areas.