STD testing is important if you’re sexually active.
Yearly testing is usually recommended especially if you’ve had multiple partners.
Obviously if you experience symptoms such as penile or vaginal discharge, rashes or burning sensation when you pee, testing should be done as soon as possible.
It’s does take a lot of courage to walk into a clinic and request for a STD test.
Thoughts of “What if I am laughed at” or “What if the doctor scolds me” can swim around in your head and cause further anguish.
It is important to find the right clinic to do testing because experienced healthcare personnel have the expertise to deal with STD related matters and make the whole process seamless.
So, what happens when you go for a STD check? Let’s find out.
Visiting the clinic
Its best that an appointment is made beforehand so that you don’t have to wait too long to see the doctor. Most clinics accept walk ins too so don’t freight if you don’t make an appointment.
Furthermore, make sure to drink adequate amount of water so that you don’t have any difficulty passing urine for testing if needed.
Registering at the counter
Your identification card is needed for registration. Some clinics offer anonymous HIV testing and this does not require any identification.
Make sure your contact details are correct in the event the clinic needs to contact you to relay your test results.
Meeting the Doctor
The doctor will need to ask you a few questions. Keep in mind, your doctor isn’t asking these questions to be nosy or to judge you. These questions are important for correct diagnosis.
Here is a list of questions you might be asked
- Have you had an STD check in the past? When was your last check?
- In the past six months, how many people have you had sex with?
- Do you have sex with men? Do you have sex with women? Do you have sex with both? Do have sex with transgender people?
- Do you have vaginal sex? Do you have oral sex? Do you have anal sex?
- Do you use contraception? How often do you use condoms?
- Do you have any symptoms? Many STD’S are silent and they don’t cause symptoms but some can experience painful sex, painful urination, genital discharge or lesions.
- When was your last period? Was it a normal period?
- Have you injected drugs?
- Do you have any tattoos or body piercings?
Testing and Treatment
Once the doctor has the necessary information, a quick physical examination might be conducted especially if there are symptoms such as discharge or rashes.
Depending on your symptoms and risks for different STDs, your doctor will also advise which tests are needed and the type of sample to be collected which can be in the form of blood,urine or a swab sample
Because these STD tests may take up to a week before the results are conclusive, the doctor may prescribe medication to help you relieve the existing symptoms first.
Remember, STI checks are a normal part of healthcare and taking care of your sexual health is nothing to be shy about
We here at Universal Clinic specialise in STD checks and ensure that you feel comfortable throughout the process. Your medical records and results are private and kept totally confidential.
