Sexually transmitted diseases: When to get tested
While the U.S. has seen recent declines in sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), more than 2 million Americans still get them every year. If you are sexually active, regular testing is essential to reduce the spread of STDs (also called sexually transmitted infections or STIs) and protect your long-term health.
When left untreated, STDs can cause a number of health issues, including the inability to get pregnant. And the kicker: some STDs have no symptoms. Testing is the only way to know if you have one.
When should you get tested for STDs?
STD testing is an important part of proactive healthcare. You should consider getting tested by a healthcare provider when:
You have a new partner: This applies even if you use protection with a new sexual partner because no method of protection is 100% effective.
You have unprotected sex: Unprotected sex with a new partner or multiple partners exposes you to STDs. Some STDs can be transmitted even with the use of protection, such as herpes or HPV.
You are symptomatic: If you are sexually active and experience symptoms like unusual discharges, sores, pain during urination, or genital itching, get tested immediately.
You become pregnant: Undergoing tests early in your pregnancy could prevent complications for you and the fetus. Pregnant women should be tested for syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis B; at-risk pregnant women should also be tested for chlamydia and gonorrhea.
Common STD tests for men
When it comes to STD testing, men should consider specific tests based on their sexual activity and risk factors. For example, sexually active gay and bisexual men should be tested at least once a year for syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea, and may benefit from more frequent HIV testing.
Chlamydia and gonorrhea test: These two bacterial infections can be asymptomatic (displaying no symptoms) in men. Untreated chlamydia and gonorrhea can lead to complications like epididymitis (inflammation of the tube that carries sperm) and infertility.
HIV test: Men who have unprotected sex should get tested for HIV at least once a year. HIV has no cure, but early detection allows for effective treatment with antiretroviral therapy to manage the virus and reduce transmission.
Herpes simplex virus test: A common symptom is cold sores or genital sores. This test can detect HSV-1 or HSV-2, which can lead to genital herpes. While there is no cure for herpes, antiviral treatments can reduce outbreaks.
Common STD tests for women
Women are more likely to experience complications from untreated STDs, placing an even greater importance on early detection.
Chlamydia and gonorrhea testing: Chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, which can lead to infertility.
Pap smear and HPV test: The Pap smear is a screening test for cervical cancer caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). Women should start getting Pap smears at age 21. Early detection of HPV in the cervix can prevent cervical cancer or allow for early treatment.
Syphilis test: This blood test can detect syphilis and allow for early treatment with antibiotics. Untreated syphilis in pregnant women can result in complications for the baby such as low birth weight, premature birth, birth defects, and even a stillbirth.
HIV test: Women who have unprotected sex should get tested for HIV at least once a year. HIV has no cure, but early detection allows for effective treatment with antiretroviral therapy to manage the virus and reduce transmission.
Does health insurance cover STD testing?
In many cases, health insurance does cover STD testing. Under the Affordable Care Act, most health plans are required to cover certain preventive services without charging you a copay or deductible.
Capital Blue Cross members should check their benefits booklet (also called a Certificate of Coverage) or contact Member Services at the number on the back of their ID card to verify the details of their plan.
Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website about STD screening to learn more.
Interested in health and wellness information? Visit the Capital Journal for more articles.
Interested in drug information? Visit our prescription education section.
Source:
“Sexually Transmitted Diseases - Information from CDC.” CDC.gov.
The information provided is meant for a general audience. Capital Blue Cross and its affiliated companies believe this health education resource provides useful information but does not assume any liability associated with its use.