Getting Tested for STDs

There’s absolutely no reason to be scared of getting tested. STD testing is painless and very quick. Each STD has its own unique test; there is no single test for all STDs. Your doctor can advise you further on which tests is best for you.  

The result of most STD testing could take several hours or a few minutes in the case of STD home test kits. Because some STDs look and act similarly, you may be tested for several infections.

If you have an STD, your doctor may detect it right away. However, some lab tests can take several days or weeks to complete. Many clinics offer rapid HIV testing, with results available in as little as 20 minutes.

What to do when you have STD

It can be disheartening to get the news that you have been infected with an STD/STI. First, you’ll be so upset with yourself. But you need to keep your calm right now.

When you discover you have an STD, the best thing you can do is follow your doctor’s treatment recommendations. You should also inform anyone with whom you have had sex with lately so that they can go for STD testing and be treated if necessary. It’s not an easy conversation to have, but it’s essential.

Many STDs are easily cured with medication, so you can complete your treatment and move on with your life. Even though some STDs cannot be cured, there are many ways to treat your symptoms and avoid passing your STD to your sex partner(s).

People with STDs can have relationships and even sex and live completely normal lives. Most people get an STD at least once, and thousands live with it.

Having an STD is nothing to be ashamed of, and it does not imply that you are “dirty” or a wrong person — it simply means that you are a reasonably normal human who became infected and needed to go for STD testing.

If you’re struggling to handle it, a close friend or a family member may help. Counselors and therapists can also be sources of comfort; they are trained to make you feel better.

Don’t stay behind closed doors and die in silence. The STD home test kits can be your friend when the issue of stigmatization is mentioned. The instructions are pretty simple and can be found inside the kit; follow it to the letter and know your status today.