When to test for STD? Get answers here!
Getting tested for sexually transmitted infections is an important part of taking care of your own and others’ health. Many STIs are asymptomatic, and it can be difficult to detect them without a test. Therefore, it is crucial to get tested regularly, especially if you have had unprotected sex or multiple partners. Here we review when you should take a test for sexually transmitted infections.
When should you be tested for chlamydia?
Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections, and it often spreads without causing symptoms. You should take a test for chlamydia if you have had unprotected sex, multiple partners, or if you experience symptoms such as pain when urinating, discharge or pelvic pain. Regular testing is especially important, as untreated chlamydia can lead to complications such as infertility.
Chlamydia can be detected with a test about 1–2 weeks after the time of infection
Would you like more information about chlamydia? You can read our articles on chlamydia transmission, chlamydia symptoms and chlamydia treatment in our other articles.
When should you be tested for herpes?
Herpes can cause painful blisters on the genitals, but many people can be infected without knowing it, as herpes often lies dormant. If you have experienced outbreaks of blisters or sores, you should take a test for herpes. Herpes cannot be cured, but the symptoms can be treated, and it is important to know if you are infected to avoid passing it on to others.
can be detected with a test about 2–12 weeks after the time of infection
Would you like more information about herpes? Then you can read our articles on herpes transmission, herpes symptoms and herpes treatment in our other articles.
When should you be tested for gonorrhoea?
Gonorrhoea is a bacterial infection that can affect the genitals, throat and rectum. Symptoms include pain when urinating and yellow or green discharge, but many people have no symptoms at all. If you have had unprotected sex, you should be tested for gonorrhoea. Without treatment, gonorrhoea can lead to serious health problems, especially for women.
Gonorrhea can be detected with a test about 1–2 weeks after exposure.
Would you like more information about gonorrhoea? Then you can read our in-depth article on gonorrhoea here
When should you be tested for syphilis?
Syphilis is a serious sexually transmitted infection that develops in several stages. The first symptoms may be sores on the genitals, but in later stages syphilis can affect the entire body. If you experience sores or a rash, you should take a test for syphilis. It is important to receive treatment early, as untreated syphilis can lead to serious health problems such as damage to the brain and heart.
Syphilis can be detected with a test about 3–6 weeks after the time of infection.
When should you get tested for HIV?
HIV is a serious viral infection that can lead to AIDS if left untreated. You should take an HIV test if you have had unprotected sex, shared needles, or had sexual contact with a person infected with HIV. It is important to be tested regularly, as HIV can be controlled with medication if detected early.
HIV can be detected with a test about 2–4 weeks after the time of infection
FAQ about STI testing
What happens if you are not tested for STIs?
If you are not tested, sexually transmitted infections can go undetected and lead to serious health problems such as infertility, chronic pain and an increased risk of infecting others.
How are STIs tested?
Testing for sexually transmitted infections can be done at your doctor’s office or with a test you can use at home. It often involves a urine sample, blood sample or a swab from the genitals.
Is it difficult to get tested for sexually transmitted infections?
No, it is easy to get tested. You can either take a test at home or visit your doctor, who can take samples and give you results within a few days.
Is it necessary to see a doctor to be checked for sexually transmitted infections?
No, you can also test yourself at home using tests that are accurate and discreet. These tests give you quick answers without the need to visit a clinic. Be aware that some tests are intended for professional use and others for self‑testing. Tests for professional use can be used by healthcare personnel to perform rapid screening for sexually transmitted infections, and tests for self‑testing are designed for you to perform them yourself.