STD Profile Test
STD Profile Test
Sexually transmitted diseases (STD) are conditions that are transmitted sexually. Sexually active people with multiple partners who might not engage in safe sex practices or have unprotected sex, people with HIV infection, or sexual assault victims are at risk of getting STDs. Men having sexual activities with men are also at a higher risk of contracting STDs. People who use drugs via sharing needles can contract HIV. When detected early, STDs can be resolved by using antibiotics and antivirals. STD profile tests are used to screen or detect these diseases in people at risk of an STD infection.
What is the STD Profile Test Used For?
STD Profile tests should be done for people who are at risk of contracting these infections. Pregnant women should also have an STD screening. STD Profile tests for the following sexually transmitted diseases
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency virus)
HPV (Human Papilloma Virus)
Genital Herpes
Gonorrhea
Chlamydia
Hepatitis B and C
Syphilis
Symptoms of Sexually Transmitted Diseases and Complications
Some of the symptoms of STDs are
Pain while urination or a burning sensation
Sexual penetration seems painful
Vaginal discharge having a foul or unusual smell
Itchy genital area for both men and women
Sores, or bumps in the genital area for both men and women
Which Tests are Included in STD Profile Test?
The tests included in the STD Profile tests are:
· HIV (Human Immunodeficiency virus): This checks for p24 antigen (present in HIV) and HIV-1 or HIV-2 antibodies produced by the immune system, in response to the virus in the sample
· HPV (Human Papilloma Virus): This test is done via cervical smear, where cells from your cervix are taken and tested for any abnormal cells that may develop into cancer.
· Genital Herpes: This is caused by herpes simplex virus 1 or 2. The body produces certain antibodies which are produced in response to these viruses and the levels of these antibodies are high in case of a recent infection.
· Gonorrhea: This can be tested for by detecting genetic material from the bacteria that causes this disease.
· Chlamydia: This test would look for the presence of antibodies produced by the immune system in response to the bacteria, Chlamydia trachomatis.
· Hepatitis B and C: For Hepatitis B and C, presence of antibodies (produced by the immune system) and antigens (chemicals specific to the virus, that can trigger an immune response specific to the virus can confirm its presence.
· Syphilis: Presence of certain antibodies that are produced due to a syphilis infection are checked by the Rapid Plasma Reagin test. Another test where antibodies against the bacteria that causes syphilis, Treponema pallidum is also used as a confirmatory test.
Preparation for Test
Before the test, let your general physician know of any medication, supplements or treatments that you are taking or are currently undergoing. For some tests your doctor might ask you to stop certain medications or supplements which may interfere with the tests. Women should avoid using lubricants or creams before giving the vaginal swab samples. For urine samples, you might have to hold urine for nearly an hour before giving the sample. If there are bumps or sores, the fluid from these bumps might be taken via a needle. There are no other special preparations for this test.
Interpretation of Test Results
Absence of antibodies, antigens or genetic materials of the bacteria or virus causing these conditions can indicate that you have a negative test. The chances of infection are low. Absence of these may not always mean that you do not have the infection. It may take time for these antibodies to be produced, in case the infection is very recent. Doctors would order extra tests to confirm these diseases in case there are symptoms.
Presence of antibodies, antigens or genetic materials of the bacteria or virus may mean that you have an infection, so you would have a positive test. You are likely to have an infection, if one or more than one of these tests come positive. Doctors would order extra tests to confirm these diseases in case there are certain inconsistencies in the results.
FAQs
How is the sample collected for the STD Profile test?
A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm for certain tests. Urine samples for both men and women getting tested are given, where you hold your urine for at least an hour before giving the sample. Swab sample of vagina or pap smear sample (for cervical cancer) for women and swab sample for anus, penis/urethra, and rectum for men are also collected. If there are bumps or sores in the genital area, the fluid from these bumps might be taken via a needle and analysed.
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for STD Profile test?
The tests results should come within 1-4 days after the sample is taken. This time would depend on the diagnostic laboratory that has taken the sample for analysis.
What should we do if we have any of the tests positive?
In case any of the tests are positive, consult your doctor for treatment. If you have multiple sexual partners, then inform them as they also might be at risk of STDs.
How to prevent STDs?
Having protected sexual activity, (using condoms), getting regular STD screenings for people at risk of STD, avoiding sharing needles while using drugs or abstaining from sex may prevent STDs. Before engaging in sexual activity, all the partners should go through STD screening. If you suspect that there is a chance of having STD, refrain from sexual activity and resume only after you are in the clear.
How are STDs treated?
STDs are treated by using antibiotics which treat STDs caused due to bacteria, and antiviral medications which target STDs caused due to virus. Please do not discontinue medications without consulting your physician.
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