August 4th, 2021 | Updated on June 27th, 2022
An STI, or sexually transmitted infection, is a condition that can affect anyone. STIs can spread through sex.
They can also be spread by sharing infected needles for drugs, piercing, tattooing, or through shaving razors used by infected persons. They can also spread through skin contact with the infected discharges and from an infected pregnant woman to her baby.
STIs can be serious if left untreated. Some even can be life-threatening. Infected individuals may have to take medications for the rest of their lives.
STIs are common, though, and are nothing to be ashamed of. If you think you might have an STI, getting tested is important. Here is what you need to know about STI testing:
Why It Is Important to Get Tested
When it comes to STIs, there is no definite way of finding out if you have caught the infection unless you get tested. In many cases, there are no changes in bodily functions and no specific symptoms.
In some individuals, the STI-related symptoms are mild and inconspicuous. Yet in others, the symptoms may disappear for a while but may come back again.
You may assume you are free from an STI because there are no visible symptoms. However, the virus might be active within the body. It could attack the cells, which may result in steadily deteriorating health.
An STI can be easily managed and controlled if it is detected quickly and treated properly. However, you must first get confirmation that you have an STI. The only way of knowing it is through STI testing.
The type of testing will depend on the sexually transmitted disease you want to get tested for. Some of the most common sexually transmitted infections are chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, syphilis, herpes, and Hepatitis B. You need not get overly stressed about getting tested for STIs, as the process is quick and painless.
Be honest with your doctor while sharing information about your sexual life and practices. There is no need to feel embarrassed or awkward. Doctors come across many patients with STIs, and treating them is a part of their daily routine.
How STI Testing Is Done
Most STI testing facilities provide patients with the convenience of private and confidential testing. The testing process may include a urine test, a blood test, and a genital swab to check for unusual discharges.
The STI test may also include inspection of the genital area. The doctor will check for visible symptoms such as sores, rashes, irritation, and warts.
If you feel too embarrassed to go to a doctor or a testing facility, you can opt for at-home STI testing. It is a simple and discreet way of knowing if you have any sexually transmitted infection.
You have to answer a few questions related to your sexual activity. Next, a testing kit will be mailed to your address in discreet packaging.
The kit comes with a set of detailed instructions on how to collect the samples. It also has a prepaid label and a box to send to the lab for testing.
If your test report is positive, the medical team from the lab will contact you to discuss the next steps. They will also prescribe medication and will provide in-person care if necessary. At-home STI testing is a simple way of getting tested for those who find going to a lab or a doctor extremely stressful.
What to Do If Your STI Test Comes Back Positive
If your STI test comes positive, it is natural to feel extremely stressed, nervous, and embarrassed. Keep in mind that STIs are common, though, and there is no need to feel ashamed. Think sensibly and make sure that the next steps you take are done with a clear mind.
Be sure to follow the directions of the doctor for treating the condition. You must also make sure you share the status of your health with your partner/s about your STD.
This will alert them about the potential risks. It will also ensure that they, too, get tested and treated if their report is positive for STI.
Why Early Testing Is Recommended
The benefit of getting tested early for STIs is that you can start your treatment immediately and also get cured faster. It will help you remain in control of your life.
If you get infected with an STI that can’t be cured, you may have to face facts. You’ll need to accept that you have to live with the condition for the rest of your life. However, the condition can be managed with the appropriate treatment and medication.
Talk to your doctor about possible breakthroughs in STI research. They may also know about emerging treatments or medications that might be on the horizon.
How You Can Manage an STI
There are powerful and proven medications available to help you manage your symptoms better. If you are not able to manage your stress and are feeling low, you can seek the assistance of counselors. They can help you maintain a positive frame of mind so you can lead a normal life even with an STI.
Over the past few years, it has become easier to deal with living with a sexually transmitted infection or disease. Millions of people around the world are living with STIs. There is nothing bad or abnormal about being STI positive.
You can live as normally as any other person but with an added level of precaution. STIs can happen to anybody who has had a sexual relationship with someone. That’s why it is better to get tested. Doing so will put to rest any doubts you might have about the status of your health.
If you are having a tough time dealing with having an STI, seek support. You can talk to a close friend, family member, counselor, or therapist.
Many online and in-person support resources are also available. You can use these resources to get a grip on your life and remain in control of your mind and body.
Health Disclaimer :
Information provided by Newszii.com does in no way substitute for qualified medical opinion. Any text, videos or any other material provided by us should be considered as generic information only. Any health related information may vary from person to person, hence we advice you to consult specialists for more information.