STDs are diseases that are passed from one person to another during vaginal, oral and/or anal sex. They are caused by bacteria, viruses and parasites that are present in the affected individual’s vaginal fluids, semen and/or saliva. Some common STDs include:
Some common symptoms of STDs in Singapore include:
Itching or pain in the vagina/urethra.
Discomfort or pain when urinating.
Abnormal discharge from vagina, penis and/or anus.
Lumps and/or warts around genital area.
Swollen lymph nodes at groin area.
STD testing is recommended for all adults regardless of sexual activity. It is recommended that individuals undergo an STD testing every year or so.
Women over the age of 13 or below 25 and who are sexually active are highly recommended to undergo STD testing. It is also advised that those with multiple sexual partners undergo frequent testing to rule out the likelihood of any diseases.
You may choose to undergo STD testing if:
You have engaged in unprotected vaginal and anal sex.
You have engaged in sexual intercourse with more than one partner.
You have engaged in sexual intercourse with a partner with an STD.
You have been diagnosed with an STD in the past.
A urine test is typically done to diagnose STDs such as gonorrhea. Urine samples will be taken from the patient who is to provide their urine in a cup according to the nurse’s instructions. The sample will then be sent for testing to determine if you have an STD.
A blood test is typically done to diagnose STDs such as syphilis, genital herpes and HIV. A small amount of blood will be taken during the test with a special needle and the samples will be sent to the lab to confirm if you are positive for any of these STDs.
An oral and/or genitals swab is typically done to diagnose common STDs such as genital herpes, gonorrhea and chlamydia. Your doctor will use a medical swab to retrieve a sample from the infected area (genital area). Women may require samples from the vaginal area or their cervix (area at the end of the uterus inside the vagina). Men may have samples taken from the penis, the anal canal or at the urethra area.
Have a full meal before undergoing an STD test as blood may be drawn.
Choose clothing with short sleeves or sleeves that can be rolled up.
Inform your doctor of any preexisting medical conditions and/or drug allergies.
After STD testing in Singapore, you will receive your results after 3 to 5 days depending on the type of STD. Your samples may also be sent to a lab for further testing.
If you are positive for an STD, you will need to undergo a follow-up test to confirm your results. You will then consult your doctor to review your sexual health and history and formulate a treatment plan. Do inform your sexual partners of your diagnosis so that they can also get tested for an STD.
