An integral part of overall well-being is sexual health but is often overlooked by individuals due to the stigma associated with it. Our society has made an important aspect of life a taboo subject whereas discussing other physical health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, cancer, or others is common but when sexual health and sexually transmitted infections come into talk, people hesitate to address the problems openly. It is high time people understand the importance of prioritizing their sexual health and creating awareness about this significant topic.
Getting yourself tested regularly is one of the most vital steps in prioritizing and managing your sexual health. With the advancements in technology, one can get the results instantaneously on the same day. This valuable service is beneficial for individuals who prioritize diagnostic results that are quick and accurate. Doctors stress regular testing as early detection can prevent the transmission of infection and timely medical intervention. There are several other benefits of regular testing as well that will be discussed in detail in this article including the importance of STI testing, procedure, and how to choose the right testing service.
Why STI Testing is Important?
Sexually transmitted infections are very common worldwide but people don’t realize how alarming the situation is as more than one million people acquire STIs daily as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO). Some infections may show symptoms while others remain asymptomatic and exhibit the symptoms only when they progress to advanced stages. If the STIs are left untreated they cause serious health complications including fertility issues, severe pain, and making an individual highly susceptible to other infections such as HIV.
STI testing is beneficial for the following reasons;
- When an individual gets themselves checked regularly the infection can be identified in the early stages before it progresses to advanced stages causing severe health complications.
- The transmission of the infection is reduced as an individual would be well-informed about their health status and getting timely treatment.
- The uncertainty is eliminated and gives peace of mind to individuals while aiding them in making informed decisions regarding their health.
- Regular testing ensures that their partners are safe thus giving protection and ensuring the well-being of their sexual partners.
What is the Testing Procedure?
Most people avoid getting themselves screened for STIs due to a lack of awareness, misinformation, fear of testing, having a lack of knowledge regarding the testing procedure, and assuming that they are not at risk. Whereas the process is simple and not invasive at all or minimally invasive in collecting blood tests or swab tests. The methods commonly used are discussed below;
- Blood tests are conducted for the detection of infections such as HIV, syphilis, and HBV and HCV.
- Urine tests are usually used in the diagnosis of chlamydia and gonorrhea.
- Samples are taken using the procedure of swab tests from the throat, rectal area, or genitals for the detection of certain bacterial infections.
- The healthcare provider may do a visual examination in case of conditions like genital warts or herpes lesions.
Mostly the testing procedure takes only a few minutes and the results are provided within a few days but with advanced technology some laboratories can provide the result within a few minutes or the same day, which is especially beneficial for people who require the results urgently due to any reason.
How to Opt for the Right Service Providers for STI Testing?
Choosing the right STI testing service is essential to get accurate, reliable, efficient, and confidential results. When opting for the service provider one should always consider the given points;
- Ensure that the service provider maintains confidentiality and anonymity.
- If an individual is looking for urgent results he/she should always opt for the clinics that offer rapid testing or same-day testing results.
- Always go for providers who offer comprehensive testing bundles as reliable labs or clinics usually offer a wide variety of testing procedures.
- Ensure that the doctors, technicians, and healthcare staff are certified and qualified professionals in the lab or clinic.
- Opt for clinics or abs that are located near you and you can easily access the location.
When You Should Consider Getting the Test Done?
Routine testing is usually recommended for individuals who are active sexually but specific conditions require immediate screening, some of which are mentioned below;
- If someone has been involved in unprotected intercourse they should get the screening done as it helps in ensuring that one is free of any infection and is well.
- Before getting involved with new partners both the partners should consider getting themselves tested first to ensure each other’s safety and protection.
- If you are exhibiting symptoms associated with STIs such as itching, feeling a burning sensation while urinating, abnormal genital discharge, or presence of sores without known reason.
- Regular STI testing is a part of routine comprehensive checkups to check the status of sexual health.
What to Do if You Get Positive Results?
Getting positive results does not mean the end of the world rather most sexually transmitted infections are treatable and the ones that have no treatment presently can be managed effectively and one can live a fulfilling life;
- Keep yourself composed and calm and gain all the information regarding your condition
- Getting professional help is essential, immediately consult your healthcare provider so that he can guide you thoroughly about the available treatment options and lifestyle modifications if needed,
- Keep your partner informed about your sexual health with open communication and encourage them to get tested as well.
- Adopt practices that are safe and reasonable to reduce the risk of transmission or contracting the disease in the future.
Conclusion
Individuals should prioritize their health by getting themselves tested so that they can make informed decisions about their health. With the latest advancements in the healthcare sector services like same-day STI results are available to help people get the results instantly without a delay, unlike traditional methods that require days for the delivery of results.
