STD Screening Medical Exam
What Does an STD Screening Typically Involve?
The specific tests and how samples are collected depend on the STI being screened for. Common methods include:
1. Medical History and Discussion:
-
The healthcare provider will ask about your sexual history, including the types of sexual contact you've had (vaginal, anal, oral), number of partners, use of protection (condoms), and any past STIs in you or your partners.
-
They will also ask about any symptoms you've noticed (e.g., unusual discharge, sores, itching, burning). Honesty is crucial for appropriate testing and advice.
2. Physical Examination:
The provider may examine your genital area, mouth, and anus for any visible signs of infection, such as sores, rashes, or warts.
3. Sample Collection:
Blood Tests: Used to diagnose STIs like:
-
HIV: Detects antibodies to the virus or the virus itself
-
Syphilis: Detects antibodies produced in response to syphilis infection.
-
Hepatitis B and C: Detects the presence of these viral infections, which can also be sexually transmitted.
-
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): Blood tests can detect antibodies to the virus, indicating past exposure, but are not always reliable for active infections.
Urine Tests: Often used to detect:
-
Chlamydia
-
Gonorrhea
-
Trichomoniasis
-
You'll provide a sterile urine sample in a cup.
Swab Tests: Used to collect samples from suspected sites of infection:
-
Genital Swabs: From the vagina (often self-collected), cervix (during a Pap smear for women), penis (from the urethra), or any visible sores or lesions. Used for chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, and HPV.
-
Rectal Swabs: For chlamydia and gonorrhea if anal sex has occurred.
-
Throat Swabs: For chlamydia and gonorrhea if oral sex has occurred.
Pap Test (for women with a cervix): While primarily for cervical cancer screening, it can also detect cell changes caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a very common STI. An HPV test can also be done in conjunction with or instead of a Pap test.
Who Should Get Screened?
Guidelines for STD screening vary based on age, sexual activity, and risk factors. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides general recommendations:
• Everyone Ages 13-64: Should be tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care. More frequent testing is recommended for those at higher risk.
• Sexually Active Women Younger Than 25: Should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year.
• Sexually Active Women 25 and Older: Should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia if they have new or multiple sex partners, or a partner who has been diagnosed with an STI.
• Pregnant Individuals: Should be tested for syphilis, HIV, and Hepatitis B early in pregnancy. Chlamydia and gonorrhea testing may also be recommended based on risk factors, with repeat testing in the third trimester for those at high risk.
• Sexually Active Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM): Should be tested at least annually for syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea (including oral and rectal sites if applicable). Those with multiple or anonymous partners may need more frequent testing (e.g., every 3-6 months) for HIV, syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. Annual Hepatitis C testing is also recommended for MSM living with HIV.
• Anyone Who Shares Injection Drug Equipment: Should get tested for HIV at least once a year.
• Anyone with Symptoms: If you experience symptoms like unusual discharge, sores, itching, or burning, get tested immediately, regardless of your last screening.
• After Unprotected Sex: If you have unprotected sex, especially with a new or unknown partner, consider getting tested.
• Starting a New Relationship: Many people choose to get tested with a new partner to ensure mutual sexual health.
