Each sexually active person should get tested for STDs sometime, especially after they have had unprotected sex. However, which tests and when depends on the suspected STD. If you happen to test positive for a sexually transmitted infection – do not freak out! Most of the STDs are curable, and all of them can be treated.
03 October 2024
5 min read
2510
Sexually transmitted infections and when to screen
Chlamydia and gonorrhea - 2 weeks after having unsafe sex
Both infections are very common. Because of the similarity in symptoms, you would usually be tested for both STDs at the same time. The infection can be missed, especially in women as the bacteria that cause them do not always show any symptoms. These infections are caused by anal, oral, or genital contact with someone who already has this infection.
Human papillomavirus – only when there are active symptoms
HPV is the most common STI to occur in the U.S. The virus causes genital warts, though the lesions do not show up in everyone who contracts HPV. It is a very contagious sexually transmitted disease, which can even spread by skin-to-skin contact. While genital warts are present, doctors generally make a diagnosis from inspection. Further screening may include colposcopy or a biopsy.
Herpes – after 4 to 6 weeks of unprotected sex
There are two different herpes simplex viruses: type 1 and type 2. Conventionally, it has been thought that type 1 virus causes cold sores or oral herpes, while type 2 causes genital herpes. A person can be infected with either type and never show symptoms or have painful 'outbreaks' as sores located near the genitals, mouth, lips, or anus. Herpes is the most commonly transmitted disease through contact with infectious sores. A person may be contagious though they do not show any lesions, so taking precautionary measures only when there are visible warts may not prevent the spread of the disease to the partner.
Syphilis – after 3-6 weeks of unprotected sex
Syphilis is a bacterial infection that is spread person-to-person by genital, anal, or oral contact with infectious yet painless sores that occur during the primary stage of the infection.
HIV – 1-3 months after having unprotected sex
HIV is a viral infection transmitted to an individual through blood or sexually by having unprotected vaginal or anal sex. It rarely occurs by coming in contact with other body fluids of the infected person.
Hepatitis B – preferably 6 weeks after unprotected sex
Hepatitis B is an infection caused by a virus, which is spread by semen and blood, leading to chronic liver disease.
Hepatitis C – after 6 weeks of unprotected sex
Hepatitis C is a viral infection transmitted to an individual generally through blood, sharing needles, or via skin exposure through open sores or wounds. Very rarely, hepatitis C can be transmitted by having unprotected sex. The risk of transmission is at a rate of about 1 per 190,000 sexual occurrences. This infection causes chronic liver disease and even liver cancer.
Why should STD screening be performed?
Get screened to protect yourself and your partner(s). Getting tested may alert you about an infection that you didn't know you had. For example, around 1 million people in the U.S. have hepatitis C without knowing about it. Not knowing that you have an STD could lead to long-term effects such as infertility or cancer.
What types of tests are available today?
There are several tests that make being knowledgeable of your health much more accessible, but there isn't a single test for all STDs. Most tests require blood, a sample of your urine, or a swab of the infected area. Several rapid test kits are also available, and with these tests, the results can be ready in 20 minutes.
Should I get tested?
The general rule is to get tested for an STD when you have had unprotected sex. Some people say you should be tested for everything, but the wiser approach would be to consult your physician about your particular risk factors and lifestyle. There are some downsides to screening for everything that are important to consider.
Firstly, the tests for STDs are expensive, and in a few cases, such as the blood tests for herpes, one may receive a false positive. False positives may cause unnecessary panic when there may be literally no risk of contracting an STD.
When you are sexually active: All sexually active people should be tested at some point. Those who are sexually active should get tested for HIV. Women should be tested for chlamydia and gonorrhea, as most women do not develop symptoms from these two common STDs. Always remember to practice safe sex and stay in a monogamous relationship; if so, you will need to get yourself screened less frequently.
When you had unprotected sex: If you begin having unprotected anal, vaginal, or oral sex with a new partner without dental dams or condoms, get yourself tested.
When you are in riskier relationships: If your partner has a chronic infection, such as hepatitis B/C or HIV, it is imperative that you get screened more often. If you are in an open relationship or if you are not convinced that your partner is your only lover, you must get yourself screened regularly.
Screening and High-Risk Sexual Behavior
High-risk sexual behavior includes having intimate contact with a prostitute, multiple partners, IV drug abusers sharing needles or syringes, men who have sex with men, or anonymous partners. You should get tested after anal, vaginal, or oral sex.
You had an infection
If you recently had an STD, chances are you are more likely to catch an infection again. Generally, retesting should be done 3 months after you have been treated if you happen to be sexually active.
When you have symptoms
Consult a physician to get tested or use a rapid test kit.
Baby Boomers
Since the virus was unknown for many years, all Baby Boomers born between 1945 to 1965 may have gotten infected with hepatitis C. Hepatitis C is usually asymptomatic, and most of the infection remains hidden; it is recommended that all Baby Boomers get tested for hepatitis C at least once.
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