Home STD Testing: How Quick Test Kits Work for STD
Sexually transmitted diseases are arguably one of the scariest characteristics associated with being sexually active. With a quick STD testing kit, you will be able to take this test in the comfort of your home, with minimal fuss. Sample types range from a swab to an actual blood sample, depending on the nature of the STD. Let's dig deeper into the two major types of STD test kits, learn how they work, and understand the value of regular STD testing.
01 October 2024
4 min read
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Performing Swab Sample STD Tests
Almost all of the rapid STD test kits for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea require swab samples. The process is a bit different for both men and women.
For Males
Male participants should insert one swab into the urethra of the penis and rotate it gently for a few seconds. Use firm pressure to keep the swab inserted for a moment, then carefully withdraw, without touching any external surface.
For Female Patients
Women first need to remove excess mucous from the cervix using a single swab and then insert another swab into the endocervix. During this process, great caution is applied not to make any contacts with the vaginal muscles. The swab is then rubbed and turned with precision for about 15-30 seconds before it is withdrawn carefully. In the case of gonorrhea testing, the sample must be taken from the vagina, not the cervix, using the same technique as the above.
Specimen collection also includes mixing Buffer A and Buffer B solutions in a specific sequence so that any tests carried out are as close to real accuracy. The result of the test shall be ready within 15 minutes.
Performing Blood Sample STD Tests
Syphilis, HIV, HSV-2, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C are the blood-sample-required tests. The sample collection is relatively easy and unisex: a lancet and a plastic pipette are used to collect the blood, after which it gets tested. The results are normally ready within 15 minutes.
How Blood Sample STD Tests Work
Blood sample STD tests work by identifying antibodies that the body has produced in response to an invading pathogen. Usually, these antibodies can be detectable some days starting from the infection. However, the most appropriate timing for testing differs for each STD, and users are encouraged to note that for effectiveness.
Interpreting Test Results
Depending on the result, you may observe one or two lines on the test. If both the control and test lines are visible, the result is positive. A single control line indicates a negative result. If no lines or only the test line appears, the test is invalid, necessitating a repeat test.
How to Safely Purchase STD Test Kits
While purchasing an STD rapid test kit, several factors must be considered to guarantee safety and reliability. Check for intact packaging, valid expiration dates, and clear instructions. Product quality is a core factor in the provision of accurate results.
Determining the Quality of an STD Rapid Test Kit
A good quality STD rapid test kit should be licensed, recognized, and certified by various reputable organizations. The test kits we offer carry certification under the ISO 13485, Medical Device Standard, and Good Manufacturing Practice, and are recognized by the World Health Organization, Food and Drug Administration, USAID, and the EU Commission.
Importance of STD Test Kits
Rapid testing by STD testing kits has a number of advantages: convenience, affordability, and speed. They help people to keep their reproductive health in order by providing quick information, results on time—reducing the chances of undiscovered cases of STDs, and ensuring timely treatment against STIs.
Symptoms may not be shown for many types of STDs, which usually results in many cases going undiagnosed. If left uncured, the complications of STDs may be both short- and long-term. The grave type of complications includes infertility, the failure of an organ, blindness, and sometimes cancer.
The CDC estimates that nearly 20 million new cases of STDs occur every year in the United States alone, but many more undiagnosed cases are contributing to transmission rates. Persons who are unaware of their STD status can unknowingly spread the infection to others and are at a higher risk for serious health complications.
Testing, then, is the sure method of ascertaining whether one has STDs to allow for early treatment and reduce risk.
Who Should Get Tested for STDs?
Some groups should consider regular testing for STDs, including:
People experiencing new relationships
Those who practice unprotected sex
Those whose partners have had affairs
People whose partner has multiple partners
Those with numerous partners
People with symptoms of STDs
STD testing plays an important role in sexual health. Our range of rapid STD test kits provides you with a convenient, reliable, and fast method of home testing. Understanding the use of STD testing and the right way to use these kits is part of responsibly taking care of your sexual health. Regular testing will also help reduce the rates of transmission among sexually active people and ensure healthier, safer relationships.
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