ABOUT STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection) TESTING
A partner can give you their affection…and more than 20 different infections. The following is a list of the STIs that are common in our part of the world and some information about how testing is done.
THERE IS NO TEST THAT CAN SCREEN FOR ALL STIs.
Depending on the test, it can also take several weeks to months to show up after an exposure or sexual contact. Most results return within two weeks and are available via phone or in person.
CHLAMYDIA is the most common STI caused by bacteria. It can be present for a long time without symptoms. During a female exam, a sample is collected from the cervix with a swab. If no exam is done, a urine sample can be tested for women and men. Women also have the option of a self-collected vaginal swab. Chlamydia is treated with an antibiotic and is curable, but you can be reinfected.
GONORRHEA is also caused by bacteria and can be present without symptoms. The testing method is the same as above. In some cases, a sample may also be collected from the anus or throat. Gonorrhea is treated with an antibiotic and is curable, but you can be reinfected.
TRICHOMONIASIS (TRICH) is caused by a tiny parasite called protozoa. They live in wet areas of the genitals of infected people such as the vagina in women and the urethra in men. A sample of fluid can be collected during an exam to test for trichomoniasis under a microscope. It is curable and treated with an antibiotic, but you can be reinfected.
HERPES is caused by a virus and is a very common infection. If a visual inspection finds a sore or other suspicious break in the skin, a culture of the sore can be done with a swab. Herpes is difficult to culture and a negative test can actually mean the sample did not have enough of the virus to grow on the culture. A herpes blood test is also available and can check for antibodies for two types of herpes infection.
GENITAL WARTS are caused by a virus called Human Papilloma virus or HPV, and are also a very common infection. There is no currently available screening test for genital warts. A visual inspection can be done during an exam to look for signs of warts. Some types of HPV are associated with cervical, penile and oral cancers. The most important test for HPV is for women to have a Pap smear done when recommended by their clinician. A vaccine is available, recommended for women ages 9-26,that protects against certain strains of HPV.
HIV is caused by a virus and is tested with a mouth swab or blood test. If you have never been screened for HIV, a separate counseling session is recommended with an educator.
SYPHILIS is caused by a bacteria and screening is done with a blood test. Syphilis is more common for men who have sex with men, but anyone can become infected through intimate contact.
HEPATITIS B is caused by a virus and screening is done with a blood test. A vaccination is available to protect you from this STI. If you have been vaccinated (a series of 3 shots), you don’t need testing.
HEPATITIS C is caused by a virus and screening is done with a blood test. It is more commonly transmitted by contact with blood than by sex.
IF YOU WANT MORE INFORMATION ABOUT STIs, JUST ASK A STAFF MEMBER.
FPCC 2/09 16.02