Sexually transmitted infection tests

About tests

There are numerous sexually transmitted infections. Some of them will cause symptoms that should be brought to the attention of a doctor immediately. However, some of these sexually transmitted infections can be “quiet” — someone could have the disease but might not notice any symptoms of the infection. Therefore, it is important to be tested if you take part in unprotected sex.

• Chlamydia trachomatis is often called “the silent epidemic” because infections are common yet many people do not realize that they are infected. Only one in four infected people have symptoms of a slight discharge and stinging on passing urine. This bacterial disease is easily cured with antibiotics but can have serious health consequences if left untreated. Test that used blood to detect the disease: Chlamydia trachomatis Antibodies IgA, Chlamydia trachomatis Antibodies, IgG.
  
  

• Syphilis is a bacterial infection that can be easily missed. The first symptom is a painless blister or sore that will disappear on its own, but the infection can be passed on to others for up to eighteen months. Syphilis can be treated with antibiotics. However, if left untreated, the disease can spread throughout your body over many years and cause considerable organ damage. Test that used blood to detect the disease: Treponema pallidum Antibodies.
  
  

• Genital herpes causes recurrent, periodic outbreaks of sores in the genital region and remains in your body for life. Test that used blood to detect the disease: Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Type 1, 2 -Specific Antibodies, IgG, Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Type 1, 2 -Specific Antibodies, IgM
  
  

• Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C – are viral infections that can be transmitted through sexual contact. Hepatitis B and C affect the liver and can severely damage it. Test that used blood to detect the disease: HBsAg + anti-HCV

Sexually transmitted infections (STI) symptoms

The symptoms of an STI can include:

• an unusual discharge from the vagina, penis, or anus

• pain when peeing

• lumps or skin growths around the genitals or bottom (anus)

• a rash

• unusual vaginal bleeding

• itchy genitals or anus

• blisters and sores around your genitals or anus

• warts around your genitals or anus

• warts in your mouth or throat, but this is very rare

Go to testing if:

• if you are sexually active and have one or more risk factors (age under 25 years, having new or multiple sexual partners, having sex with someone who has other partners, and not using barrier contraceptives)

• you have symptoms of an STI

• a sexual partner has symptoms of an STI

• you're worried after having sex without a condom

• you're pregnant with symptoms of an STI

Many STIs have no symptoms at all, like HIV. The only way to know for sure is to get tested.

We have selected a list of tests that will allow detecting these diseases just by blood sample.