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Testing for sexually transmitted infections

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Sexually transmitted diseases are caused by bacteria and viruses and are passed on from one person to another through sexual contact (this can include vaginal, anal or oral sex). Sexually transmitted infections are becoming more common due to increased promiscuous and unprotected sexual relationships. Practising safe sex is the best way to avoid contracting illness and it is vital we educate people on how to do this. STIs manifest themselves in different ways and whilst in most cases it is easy to treat sexually transmitted diseases some infections are incurable and stay with you for life.

Testing for sexually transmitted infections is largely easy and painless. For many of these a simple swab of the infected area or urine sample is all you need. The sample or swab is then analysed at a laboratory so the strain of bacteria can be identified. In some cases such as for HIV and syphilis a blood sample must be taken, so testing can involve a little discomfort. Whilst it is advisable you get tested soon after you have had unprotected sex some tests will not pick up the bacteria before a few weeks have lapsed, this is true for Chlamydia which can only be picked up in tests 2 weeks after infection. New more expensive tests will check the genetic profile of bacteria by extracting DNA from the patient’s sample, however their results are more reliable and are obtained more quickly.

Treating the bacteria which causes infection is relatively easy and generally involves just a short course of antibiotics. As the infections become more resistant to the older available antibiotics new ones need to be used, however all this involves is trying another course of antibiotics. You should always correctly complete the course of antibiotics to prevent the infection coming back. If you do test positive you should let your partner know, as the chances are they have been infected too. Treating both partners prevents re-infection.

What can you do to prevent infection? Get informed and educate yourself about STDs and HIV/AIDS. Get tested on a regular basis and every time you change partner. Practice safe sex by using a condom with all new partners, and make sure the condom is used correctly. Get the all clear before changing your method of contraception and deciding to use a non-barrier method. If you’re infected do not have sex with others until you have been treated as you are very likely to pass your illness on. Be open with your partner and talk about your sexual health, take precautions and be safe.