STD Testing Specialist

How Do STD Tests Work?

There is no single way to test for STDs. The doctor may first perform a physical exam to see if there are any signs of infection in the genital area. This can include warts, discharge, sores, or a rash. They may also take a blood sample or urine sample to test it for the presence of certain bacteria. They could even collect a bit of tissue, discharge, or saliva to examine under a microscope.

While some STDs can be diagnosed during the physical exam, others can only be diagnosed after sending samples to the lab, which could take up to several weeks to be returned.

What Is Tested for on an STD Test?

There is no one sexually transmitted disease test to cover all disorders. However, some of the common tests include a urine test for Chlamydia and gonorrhea, a blood test for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis, a pap test or biopsy for HPV, and a blood test for genital herpes.

Doctors can also test for other treacherous conditions including public lice, scabies, trichomoniasis, pelvic inflammatory disease, intestinal parasites, molluscum contagiosum, hepatitis B, cytomegalovirus, and HIV or AIDS.

How Often Should a Person Get Tested for STDs?

The rate of testing depends on how often a person has sex and with how many partners. If a person is not sexually active, they do not require testing. However, people who are sexually active should be tested once a year at a minimum.

There are some risk factors that mean a person should get tested more often. These include having new sexual partners or having unprotected sex without a condom. If a person's sex partner is displaying symptoms of an STD, this means they should get tested right away even if they do not have symptoms themselves.