Which STD tests should you undergo and how often?

Latest update: February 20, 2023 – By means of Guest blogger | Reading time approx. 3 minutes

Do you doubt whether you should take an STD test? Below we give a recommendation, if this could be useful for you.

Chlamydia and gonorrhea

If you are a sexually active woman, get yourself screened for chlamydia and gonorrhea at least once a year. Other criteria for an annual test for these 2 STIs are:

1. If you are a woman over 25 having sex with a new partner (or more than one partner).
2. If you are a woman with HIV.
3. If you are forced to have sex against your will.

The test for gonorrhea and chlamydia is done through a simple urine test or cervical smear. Once the sample is taken, it is sent to a lab for analysis. You can have chlamydia or gonorrhea without any symptoms, so testing remains essential for early detection.

Can you detect STDs at home?

Yes, you can test yourself for certain STDs using home test kits. STI test woman at home is also for sale at Soapoli-online.nl. Some women prefer an STD test at home because they can get tested at home. Home STD testing for women can be done at any time, without a doctor’s appointment.

Keep in mind, however, that home STD tests have a fairly high false positive rate. In addition, these tests often do not screen for all types of STIs a woman can contract. HIV, gonorrhea, and chlamydia can be tested at home and sent to a lab for further analysis. If you really want to do an STD test at home, we strongly recommend that you send more than one sample to confirm the results of your test.

If you test positive for an STD, you should see your obstetrician/gynecologist as soon as possible for further diagnosis and treatment. If you experience symptoms of an STD, see your doctor immediately.

HPV

It human papillomavirus, or HPV, occurs in millions of Dutch people. About 80 percent of sexually active people become infected with HPV in their lifetime. In most cases, the virus clears up about 2 years after getting it and does not cause any health problems. However, if HPV does not go away, it can lead to cervical cancer or genital warts.

The HPV virus test for women usually consists of a Pap smear. A Pap test checks the cervix for abnormal cells. Pap tests should be done fairly regularly – about every 3 years. If you’re concerned about HPV, get a Pap test more often. The HPV virus remains linked to vaginal, vulva, penile, anus, and oral cancers.

The HPV shot remains most effective when taken before the start of pregnancy.

Genital herpes

There are currently no tests for genital herpes. Unfortunately, this disease can be passed from person to person without showing any symptoms. However, your doctor may take a tissue scrape from sores in the genital area to test it. Blood tests are also available, but in many cases they do not give accurate results.

(ed: Thanks to our partner for the supplied article)