More than 25 bacteria, parasites, and viruses cause infections through skin-to-skin or sexual contact. Most sexually transmitted infections are asymptomatic. It means these infections show no signs at an early stage. Hence, it is safer to practice protected sexual contact to reduce your chances of contracting any STI.
An STI check is the most reliable option to maintain a healthy and safe sex life. Whether you are sexually active or looking to take care of your health – it is always wiser to go for a quick STI test.
What Is An STI Check?
The STI test is a medical test. It examines your genitals to address any signs of sexually transmitted infections. The checkup is simple, painless, and quick.
Your doctor will not personally recommend you to go for an STI test unless there are clear signs. But you can do it to keep yourself from serious health issues.
Is The STI Test for Everyone?
Most people think the testing for sexually transmitted infections is only limited to those who are sexually active or have had multiple sexual partners. This is not completely true.
Yes, sexually active people should make STI check a habitual screening process. But everyone, especially those aged 13 to 60, should take an STI test.
Here is an idea of who should go for the STI test;
- Young people reaching puberty
- People from 13 to 60 age should go for STI tests (especially HIV) once a year
- Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and bacterial vaginosis are common in women younger than 25. Doctors recommend that women undergo STI tests for these infections whether or not they are sexually active
- Every woman should get an STI test for gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B or C during early pregnancy
- Anyone having unprotected sex should get an STI test
- Bisexual people
- Transgender women
- Gay men should go for an STI test once every six months
- People with more than one sexual partner should go for an STI test from time to time
- Anyone with a medical history of HIV or other sexually transmitted infections should be tested for other infections, especially hepatitis C
- People doing unprotected sex, primarily oral and anal, must go for throat, rectal, and genital STI tests
Common Signs to go for STI Test
Most STIs show no signs until they become untreatable and worst sexually transmitted diseases. As a result, it becomes easier and more common to get STIs. However, here are some common signs that may indicate you are sexually infected;
STI Signs for Women
- Abdominal, pelvic, and vaginal pain during sex
- Vaginal discharge or bleeding
- Bleeding or bumps from rectal
- Irregular periods
- Hormone disbalance
- Foul vaginal odour
STI Signs for Men
- Unusual discharge from the penis
- Swell or itchy urethra
- Painful ejaculation
- Change in urination flow
STI Signs for Both
- Sores or bumps near the genitals
- Itchiness, redness, or rashes on or near the genitals
- Severe headache
- Body pain
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Sore throat
- Rectal pain
Final Words
The tests for sexually transmitted infections are quick and painless. Take this sexual health test as five minutes of discomfort that could save you and your loved ones from infection, disease, and worsening symptoms.
