Sexually transmitted diseases have spoiled the sex lives of thousands of couples. The contagious diseases are not only transferred through sexual intercourse but are also using other routes such as skin-to-skin contact. Therefore, a sexual health check is necessary to keep yourself safe from acquiring the disease. All you need to do is provide samples for STI tests and visit your doctor regularly. But most people fear going for a sexual health check and testing for STI’s due to the stigma that continues to surround it. Which is why, it is important to be educated on sexual health, and know when it is appropriate to see a professional.
In this post, you will find out when you should go for a sexual health check!
When Should I Be Tested?
You can acquire a sexual health check/STI test at any time you feel it may be necessary. Although, if you are unsure, here are some scenarios where it is encouraged:
Testing After Sex with a New Partner
If you have engaged in sexual activity with a new partner, it is best to get tested. This keeps yourself and the other person as safe as possible. Similarly, if you are engaging with more than one partner over a period, you may wish to be tested more regularly as a safety measure. You never know the details of microbiota present in the urogenital tract of someone else. If your partner carries an infective agent, you are highly prone to get a positive report if tested.
Sexual Contact With A Confirmed STI Patient
It is possible that you may find out that the person you had sexual relations with, has tested positive for an STI. This is a clear indicator that you should also be tested straight away and avoid any other contact with others to prevent the infection spreading even further. In addition, the longer you wait to get tested, the longer you prolong treatment which makes symptoms worse and puts your overall health at risk.
You Show Symptoms Of An STI
The symptoms of every sexually transmitted infection vary from stage to stage and agent to agent. However, in the initial phase of the disease, the symptoms are highly overlapping.
It is your own responsibility to be aware of the symptoms and acquire a test when you feel you may be infected. For this purpose, you must know the signs of STIs.
- If there is any redness or rashes around the genital area
- Blood or mucous in urine
- Difficulty in urine discharge
- Fever
- Abdominal Pain
- Sores around the genital area
- Weight Loss
What To Do If The Report Is Positive?
Don’t panic or feel ashamed. This is common and there are ways to treat it. You will more than likely be given medication or some form of treatment. You should take this for the instructed amount of time. Be sure to avoid sexual intercourse until symptoms are completely cleared.
You may also be offered some other advice and support like counselling at the sexual health clinic. Take advantage of this if you feel you will benefit from it.
