An STD test is a medical exam that can help you determine if you have an STD and what kind of treatment is needed. This may include improving your chances of getting pregnant, preventing pregnancy and protecting against other health problems.
There are many types of STDs, from bacterial infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea to viral infections like HIV/AIDS and herpes simplex virus (HSV). Some STDs affect only women while others affect both men and women; some are curable while others are not. If left untreated, some STDs may lead to serious health problems or even death!
What are some Common Sexually Transmitted Diseases?
- Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection that causes discharge from the penis or vagina, burning or itching during urination. It can also cause pain and swelling around the anus and lower back. If left untreated, gonorrhea can spread to other parts of the body, including your bloodstream; this is called pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
- Chlamydia is an infection caused by bacteria that live in mucus membranes like those found inside your throat, rectum and eyes (cornea). In women, it often goes unnoticed because it does not cause symptoms until later stages of infection when it has spread into deeper tissue layers.
- The most common symptom among men who have chlamydia are frequent urination but there may also be discharge from penis/vagina/rectum.
Are there any other Reasons why I should get tested?
If you are having sex with someone and have symptoms of an STD, it’s a good idea to get tested. This can help you find out if you have the infection before it gets worse.
If you are pregnant, get STD test so that your baby won’t be born with these diseases too.
If you’re having sex with multiple partners or are having unprotected sex (sex without using a condom), then consider getting tested for STDs as well!
How long do I Need to Abstain from sex before getting a test done?
You need to abstain from sex for two weeks before getting a test done. This means you should not have vaginal, anal or oral intercourse during that time. You can also use a condom with your partner if it’s the same brand and style used during your last sexual encounter.
The same goes for sharing sex toys: if you shared any kind of vibrator with someone else in the last month (and don’t know what kind), then that’s not considered using a new one so it doesn’t count towards your abstinence period.
