Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), commonly referred to as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), are widespread and can have negative effects on health if not identified and treated. Routine STD testing is a crucial aspect of sexual health to ensure early detection and effective care of these diseases.
It’s a great approach to ease your mind and the minds of any potential partners while also making sure you’re spotting problems early and getting the greatest care. Look for STD testing near me, and you will find some good lab options to get the testing done.
Who should undergo STD testing?
STI testing is essential if you are considering abortion due to an unplanned pregnancy. The following individuals should participate in the STD testing-
- All sexually active women/men under the age of 25 should undergo annual testing.
- People above the age of 25 who have risk factors, such as recent or repeated sexual partners or a partner with an STD, should undergo STD testing.
- Pregnant women at risk should undergo testing as soon as possible.
- Every gay and bisexual man/women who engages in sexual activity should undergo the test.
Importance of STD Testing-
- Early Diagnosis and Treatment
Effective STD treatment and averting long-term health issues depend on early STD identification. Regular testing is necessary, especially if you are sexually active or engaging in high-risk behaviors, because many STDs may not initially manifest symptoms.
- Transparency
One of the reasons to undergo the test is to have transparency in your health condition and take the right steps. Rapid treatment lowers the likelihood of infection spread, fostering a healthy intimacy with a partner.
- Long-Term Health Protection
Untreated STDs can cause a variety of serious health issues, including an increased risk of HIV transmission, persistent pain, pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and various malignancies.
- Prevention of Complication
If STD left untreated and undiagnosed, it could result in major health issues like infertility, persistent pain, organ damage, and a higher risk of developing certain forms of cancer. With timely testing, you can bring down the risk of these problems is reduced or eliminated with routine testing.
- Sexual Partner Protection
By being aware of your STD status, you may take the appropriate procedures to safeguard your relationships. If you are found to have an STD, you can tell your partners so they can get tested as well and, if necessary, seek treatment to stop further spread.
- Reduced Transmission Rates
Finding and helping those who have STDs slows the spread of these infections among neighbors. This is essential for managing and stopping STD outbreaks, especially in high-risk groups.
- Safe Pregnancy:
STDs can have devastating effects on expectant mothers and their unborn children. Prenatal STD testing and treatment can stop infections from spreading to the baby, lowering the likelihood of congenital disorders and other health issues.
- Sexual Health Education:
STD testing provides a chance for people to learn more about safe practices, risk reduction, and sexual health. It further helps to have discussion with your partner about safe sex, and healthy sexual behaviour, counselling and education are frequently essential parts of STD testing.
- Normalization and Stigma Reduction:
Promoting routine STD testing helps lessen the stigma attached to these illnesses. It encourages a culture of ethical sexual behaviour and normalizes the process of getting tested for and receiving STD treatment.
- Peace of Mind
Being aware of your STD status can bring comfort and lessen worry about potential STD exposure. It enables one to make educated decisions about their relationships and sexual well-being.
- Cost Savings
Long-term cost savings are more likely to result from early STD detection and treatment than from managing the problems that may result from untreated infections. Regular testing can relieve people and the healthcare system of the cost of expensive medical care.
How is the STD Process Done?
- Evaluation
A meeting with a healthcare professional usually marks the start of the procedure. You can have some talks about your physical intimacy and evaluate the overall process of STD testing. To ensure adequate testing, open and honest communication is essential.
- Choosing the Proper Tests
The medical professional will suggest tests based on your conversation. Blood tests, rectal swabs, and physical examinations are examples of common STD tests.
- Look for Checkup Packages
There are health checkup packages in Mumbai, which you can book for the STD testing accordingly if doing at the lab. It will help to save your money. These packages are as per the test you want to get it done.
- Get Tools for Testing
You can do the testing by self if you are not so keen to get the testing done at the lab. However, it is important to have the right tools and idea of the process. The procedure is often painless and quite short.
- Get Results at Home
Once the lab expert collects the sample, the report will be sent to you at your home or on your WhatsApp. Once you get the result, you can contact your doctor to understand it further.
Conclusion
A vital component of general well-being is to undergo STD testing. Regular testing is a top priority since it aids in early identification, treatment, and prevention, providing a healthier and safer sexual experience. To find an STD testing center near you, the best is to check online or visit Orange Health Lab. OHL offers a complete home blood collection service for an easy process.