Did you know that sexual health is a crucial aspect of your overall well-being? Well, it is. And regular testing for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) is a crucial step to staying on top of your health.
Here’s a rather unfortunate twist. There are so many misconceptions and stigmas surrounding STDs and testing.
These often discourage people from getting tested for STDs—even if they already understand their huge risk profiles! If you want to know the packages for STD tests in Singapore and how to prepare, please follow this link: https://healthclinicgroup.com/std-testing/.
We created this guide to help you understand when to get your STD test in Singapore. We also created it to debunk some of the most wild myths surrounding STD tests.
So, when you read this guide to the end, you should be best placed to make informed decision about your sexual health. Read on!
So, what are STDs and how Common are they?
To decide when to have your STD test in Singapore, it does help to understand the diseases you’re being tested for. It does also help to know the prevalence of these diseases.
Now, STDs encompass a wide range of infections transmitted through sexual activity. The most notable ones include;
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Syphilis
- Herpes, and
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
Now, if the recent global data by the World Health Organization (WHO) are anything to go by, the rates of STD transmissions are alarmingly high. In excess of 1 millions STDs are acquired each day.
Here’s the problem with many STDs. If you fail to address the infections early, you can almost always be guaranteed serious consequences.
Poorly managed STDs cannot only cause as chronic pain. They are also known to cause infertility and even worse off, increased vulnerability to other infections.
What do I Need to Know before Getting an STD test?
While going for your STD test in Singapore may seem rather casual, there are some basic things you will want to know before booking a test. Key among these basics includes the following;
- Sexual Activity and Risk Factors: The level of risk associated with sexual activity can vary significantly. Low-risk behaviors may involve having a mutually monogamous relationship where both partners have been tested and are free of STDs. Moderate-risk activities include having multiple sexual partners or inconsistent condom use. High-risk behaviors include engaging in unprotected sex. They also include having anonymous partners, or sharing needles, and even sex toys. You may want to assess your sexual activity and understand your risk factors to determine when to get tested for STDs.
- Partner’s Sexual Health Status: For a healthy sexual relationship, it does help to have an open and honest communication with your sexual partner. Discussing STD testing and sharing information about previous sexual encounters can help establish trust and create a supportive environment. If your partner has a known STD or engages in high-risk behaviors, prioritize regular testing. This will not only help safeguard your health but also theirs.
- Signs and Symptoms of STDs: To begin with, some STDs will exhibit noticeable signs and symptoms. On the contrary, other infections can remain asymptomatic for extended periods. Common signs include unusual discharge, pain during urination, or genital sores. You may also experience itching. But you cannot rely solely on symptoms to know your status. This is because, some symptoms can be misleading, as some infections may be present without any noticeable indicators. So, regular testing is necessary. And it doesn’t really matter of whether you’re already seeing symptoms or not.
- Past History of STDs: If you have previously been diagnosed with an STD, please to continue getting tested periodically. Some infections, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, can reoccur. And reinfection is possible even after successful treatment. But with regular testing you will be best placed to detect any potential reinfections. Regular testing also places you in the best place to get ensures appropriate treatment if necessary, and on time.
What are the Recommendations for STI Screening?
To be best placed to identify and treat STDs early and contain the spread, it does help to know the recommendations for STD testing. For starters, here are the basics you may want to be informed on;
- General Recommendations for Everyone: In general, it is advisable for sexually active individuals to undergo annual STD screenings. This proactive approach does not only allow for the early detection. It also allows for timely treatment of infections to prevent potential complications and further transmission. Also, testing is recommended before starting a new sexual relationship. It does also help to schedule your STD test in Singapore if you are pregnant or planning to conceive.
- Specific Recommendations for High-Risk Groups: There are groups that have an increased risk of contracting STDs due to several factors. These include:
- Men who have sex with men (MSM): MSM should undergo more frequent testing every three to six months due to higher transmission rates within this population.
- Adolescents and young adults: This age group often engages in risky behaviors. The worst part of it is that they may have limited access to sexual health education.
- Individuals with multiple sexual partners: Having multiple partners increases the risk of exposure to STDs. Regular testing, at least annually or as recommended. As early mentioned, this can help ensure early detection and timely treatment.
- People who engage in unprotected sex: Unprotected sexual activity significantly increases your risk of contracting STDs. If you have unprotected sex, prioritize regular testing. It would be best to have your STD test in Singapore every three to six months to stay informed about your sexual health.
- Additional Considerations for Certain STDs: While general recommendations apply to most STDs, specific infections require additional attention:
- Syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and HIV testing: These infections are prevalent and can have severe consequences if left untreated. Regular testing is crucial for early detection and effective management.
- Herpes and HPV: Herpes and human papillomavirus (HPV) are common viral infections that can be managed with appropriate medical care. Testing is typically conducted if symptoms are present. However, your practitioner may also recommend testing in specific circumstances, such as for women over 30 years of age.
In Closing
Prioritizing your sexual health through regular STD testing is essential for overall well-being. Try t understand the factors that influence your need for testing, and follow the recommended guidelines.
If you’re ready for an STD test in Singapore or just want to know whether you should have one, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Call or visit us at;
The Health Advisory Clinic
One Raffles Place, #04-49
1 Raffles Place, Singapore 048616
https://healthclinicgroup.com/
Tel: (+65) 6226 6442
