If you are sexually active, you might have heard the following advice from health experts many times: Use protection and get yourself tested for STDs (sexually transmitted disease).
This is critical because you may have a sexually transmitted disease without being aware of it. Of note, there are no apparent signs or symptoms in many cases. In fact, that’s why doctors and other experts prefer the term STIs or sexually transmitted infections because you can have a symptom-free infection.
But what kind of STI testing you should go for? And how to get tested? The answers depend on multiple factors such as your age, sexual activity and other associated risk factors.
What STIs should you be tested for?
There are a variety of different STIs out there. Speak to the doctor to find out which ones you should be checked for. You may be recommended to be screened for one or more of the following:
- Gonorrhoea
- Chlamydia
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
- Herpes
- Hepatitis B
- Trichomoniasis
- Syphilis
Your physician probably won’t offer to test you for certain STIs unless you have a known exposure, experiencing specific symptoms or you ask for the test.
How to get tested for STDs?
The STD testing is fast, simple, and usually doesn’t hurt. There is not a single test for all STDs; each STD has a different test. A physician will help you figure out which tests you need. The STD tests can include:
- Urine routine examination – For urine R/E, you just have to pee into a cup.
- A cheek swab – It is a test to check for HIV. You have to rub the inside of your cheek (to collect saliva) with a gentle swab.
- Blood test – The blood sample will be collected from your arm.
- Genral physical exam – The doctor looks at the genital region to check for rashes, warts, irritation, sores, or discharge.
- Checking the sores – Using a swab, your nurse or doctor will take a sample of discharge from any blisters or sores you have.
Where can I get tested for STDs?
You can be screened for STIs at a sexual health clinic or your regular doctor’s office. It’s a matter of personal preference where you go. A variety of STIs are notifiable diseases. This means that the doctor or nurse is legally obliged to report positive outcomes to the government. The government collects information on STIs to support policies in the field of public health. Online tests and at-home tests are also available for STIs, but they are not always accurate.
How much does an STD test cost?
The cost of STD testing depends on what tests you need, where you go, and whether or not you have health insurance.
As a part of the Affordable Care Act (aka Obamacare), many health insurance policies covers STD testing. STD tests can be free or low cost for Medicare and other government services. And depending on your income, some clinics – including many planned parenthood health centers – are offering free or low-cost STD testing.
Whether you have health insurance or not, planned parenthood provides you with the services you need. If you are concerned about the cost, consult your local planned parenthood health center to see if they can lead you to an STD test that suits your budget.
