STD Test

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) are diseases that are transmitted from one person to another by means of sexual activities. People who believe they may have an STD need to have STD testing done. Testing is also necessary to determine which STDs the person has, so that proper treatment can begin.

Types of STD Tests

There are several types of tests that can be done for STDs. Urine tests are commonly done to test for STDs such as gonorrhea and Chlamydia. Blood tests are used to test for HIV/AIDS. When lesions are present, cultures may be obtained from the lesion to test for STDs such as genital herpes. Cultures are also taken from secretions from the penis or vagina to test for STDs.

Avoiding STDs

The only way to be perfectly safe is to avoid having sex altogether. However, there are ways to limit possible exposure to STDs. Some preventive measures include:

• Never have unprotected sex. Male condoms should always be used. Female condoms provide some protection, but not as much as male condoms. It should be noted that condoms are not 100% effective. Spermicides can be effective for preventing pregnancy, but they are not effective for preventing STDs.


• Limit the number of sex partners. Monogamous relationships are preferable.


• Check potential sex partners for signs of STDs. It should be noted that STDs are often present with no visible signs.


• Wash the genitals with soap and water after sex. This practice can remove some germs before they infect you.

STD Symptoms

Some of the common symptoms of STDs are:

• Vaginal and penal itching or discharge


• Pain during sex or urination


• Soreness and discomfort in areas such as the genitals, rectum, and throat


• Swollen glands, fever, and body aches


• Unusual infections, fatigue, night sweats, and weight loss.

Who Should Be Tested?

Anyone experiencing STD symptoms should be tested. People who engage in risky sexual behavior should also be regularly tested. Untreated STDs can lead to very serious health problems. HIV/AIDS can lead to a variety of serious diseases and death. Chlamydia can cause women to become infertile. Genital herpes can lead to cancer in the genitals. Syphilis can cause a variety of problems including blindness and death.

How to Get Tested

The best way to get tested for STDs is to go to a doctor or STD clinic. Trained professionals know what symptoms to look for, and can perform a thorough examination. However, some people may be afraid that their diseases will become public knowledge if they consult a doctor. There are some services that advertise confidentiality in STD testing, particularly testing for HIV/AIDS. There are also kits available for personal at-home testing. A doctor should definitely be consulted for treatment if any form of STD testing indicates positive results.

By Charles Hair