In 2021, around 2.5 million new cases of STDs were reported in the United States. This excludes the countless cases that may have gone undetected. However, because of increased knowledge and awareness, most patients tend to undergo STD tests, the moment they experience any symptoms. Some people even take the more prudent approach and get their partners tested as well before indulging in any sexual activity.
While certain STDs are easily recognized due to their symptoms, infections such as Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea can be entirely asymptomatic. If left untreated, STDs like Syphilis and HIV might have serious consequences and might even lead to death. Pregnant mothers are also at risk of transmitting an STD to their unborn children. Hence, to reduce the risk of contracting an STD, it is best to educate yourself about the symptoms and which test to get for which disease.
Common STD symptoms to look out for
If you have been sexually active, you should be aware of the most common STDs you are more prone to contract. Here is a list of symptoms of every common STD to help you identify if you are experiencing them:-
| STD | Symptoms |
| HIV | Fever, rash, chills, night sweats, sore throat, fatigue, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes |
| Syphilis | Fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches, fatigue, chancre (sores), hair loss, weight loss, headaches |
| Chlamydia | Pain during urination and intercourse, bleeding between menstruation, abnormal vaginal discharge, abdomen or pelvic pain, post-coital bleeding |
| Gonorrhea | Unusual vaginal or penile discharge, abdomen or pelvic pain, pain during urination and intercourse, bleeding between menstruation, testicular pain, anal itching, rectal discharge, eye pain, light sensitivity, pus-like discharge from the eyes, itchy or sore throat |
| Trichomoniasis | Foul-smelling genital discharge, painful urination, genital itching |
| Hepatitis | Fever, fatigue, abdominal pain, appetite loss, nausea, vomiting, dark urine, and bowel movements |
Testing procedures involving common STDs
STDs may have a negative impact on your mental health as well as your sexual health. Hence, it is important to consider getting tested if you have experienced any of the symptoms listed above. Before availing of a test, you must know that every testing process can be different depending on the type of STD you are testing for. They have been elucidated below:-
HIV Testing:-
HIV tests are usually conducted via three types of tests that have different window periods:-
- NAT: 10–33 days after exposure.
- Antigen/antibody blood test: 18 to 45 days after exposure.
Syphilis Testing:-
A Syphilis test is usually conducted by drawing a blood sample. This sample is further tested in a laboratory to detect traces of the Treponema pallidum bacterium.
Chlamydia Testing:-
For Chlamydia tests, women need to undergo a vaginal swab test or a urine test. Men are required to provide a sample of their urine.
Gonorrhea Testing:-
For Gonorrhea tests, you will be required to provide a genital swab sample to test the discharge or a urine sample.
Trichomoniasis Testing:-
For Trichomoniasis tests, the sample is generally collected by using a genital swab that will be sent to the lab to check for indicators of the Trichomoniasis infection.
Hepatitis C Testing:-
A Hepatitis C test usually involves using an HCV antibody blood test. Also known as an anti-HCV test, the HCV antibody test is conducted with a blood sample. It helps detect the presence of Hepatitis C antibodies in the blood. Results are usually provided in a few hours to a few weeks depending on the test conducted.
Why Affordable Rapid Testing is the best choice for STD Testing
With today’s technological advancements, scheduling an STD test has become more convenient. Affordable Rapid Testing is among the top STD testing centers in Arizona. It features the most efficient Chlamydia & Gonorrhoea testing machine and strives to provide speedy and accurate findings. STD testing has become a readily available choice for those who are awaiting the results of their tests with Affordable Rapid Testing. They can assist you in taking the shortest step toward recovery by providing timely lab results and a comprehensive treatment plan. Make an appointment today!
