Importance of Regular Sexually Transmitted Diseases Testing - Protecting Your Health & Your Partner's

As parents, it's important to keep communication open with your teens about their sexual health. If your teen is sexually active, they might be at high risk of getting sexually transmitted infections, also known as sexually transmitted diseases. These STIs can be caused by bacteria such as Gonorrhea, Chlamydia, and Syphilis, along with viruses like human Papillomavirus (HPC), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and herpes simplex virus (HSV). However, getting tested is important when you are sexually active. 

 As per NCBI, over 340 million people are affected by STIs in the world, out of which 30 million reside in India. Yet, many are unaware of this due to the often asymptomatic nature of these infections. You will never know if you caught STIs because the STIs do not know any signs or symptoms.

However, in today's world, sexually transmitted disease testing is important for personal as well as the well-being of your partner. This testing is also important for couples planning to have a baby, pregnant women or helpful for people of all ages.

But, if they are left untreated, then it may cause infertility or raise your chances of getting other infections. Furthermore, timely diagnosis allows effective treatment, minimizing complications and promoting better health outcomes.

Why is STD Testing important?

Over 1 million curable STIs are acquired daily. In 2020, the WHO estimated 374 million new infections involving one of four STIs: chlamydia (129 million), gonorrhoea (82 million), syphilis (7.1 million), and trichomoniasis (156 million). 

STIs directly affect sexual and reproductive health by contributing to stigmatization, infertility, cancers, pregnancy complications, and an increased risk of HIV. Here is why STD testing is important- 

• Prevent Complications- Many STDs can cause severe health issues if left untreated. For example, untreated chlamydia and gonorrhoea can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, which can cause infertility. 
• Prevents Spread of Infections-  Many people with STDs may be asymptomatic and unaware that they are infected. Regular testing helps identify and treat infections, reducing the likelihood of unknowingly transmitting the disease to others.
• Protect yourself and your partner- Knowing your STD status allows you to take precautions to protect your sexual partners, such as using condoms or avoiding intercourse until treatment is complete.
• Avoids Chronic Conditions-  Some STDs, like Hepatitis B and C, may lead to health conditions like chronic liver disease and elevate your chances of liver cancer. Regular testing can catch these infections early, allowing for timely intervention.
• Reduces Cancer Risk- Human papillomavirus (HPV) is associated with several types of cancer, including cervical cancer. Testing and vaccination can immensely reduce the risk of these cancers.
• Supports Reproductive Health - STDs like chlamydia and gonorrhoea are major causes of infertility in both men and women. Early detection and treatment can prevent the reproductive organs from becoming damaged.
• Ensures Safe Pregnancy- STDs can have serious consequences during pregnancy, including transmission to the baby, preterm labour, and congenital infections. Testing during pregnancy helps ensure a healthy outcome for both mother and child.
• Reduces Stigma and Anxiety- Regular testing normalizes the conversation around sexual health, helping to reduce the stigma associated with STDs.

Types of STDs and Important Tests to Diagnose

Here is what you need to know about STD testing-

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

HIV attacks the immune system, especially the CD4 cells (T cells), making the body more susceptible to infections and certain cancers. If left untreated, it can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). There are different tests used to diagnose HIV:

• HIV 1&2 Antibodies Test by CMIA Method 
• HIV Early Screen Test 
• p24 antigen with HIV 1&2 Antibody Test
• HIV Antibody, Rapid Card Test

Recommended Frequency of HIV Testing

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that all teens aged 15 and older should have at least one routine HIV screening. Sexually active teens should get tested at least yearly after their initial screening.

Teens are at higher risk of STDs. This includes males over 13 years or older who have sex with other males who inject drugs.

In addition, pregnant women should also be tested for HIV at their first prenatal visit. They should undergo testing again during the third trimester if they live in communities with high HIV infection rates. 

Syphilis

Syphilis is a bacterial infection that advances through four stages: primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary.

It can be treated with antibiotics, but if left untreated, syphilis can lead to various serious health complications. Doctors typically use a blood test to check for syphilis.

Diagnosis: 

• Syphilis Antibodies Test 
• VDRL Test 

Recommended Frequency of Syphilis Testing

The recommended frequency for syphilis testing may vary in different people. Pregnant women must take the test during their prenatal visit and also in the third trimester to diagnose the risk of syphilis. 

Men who have sex with men should take tests every 3-6 months, especially if they have multiple partners. Routine testing is recommended annually for all who engage in regular physical activity. If your partner is diagnosed with Syphilis, then you must get the screening as soon as possible. 

Hepatitis (Hepatitis B and C)

Hepatitis B and C are viral infections that affect the liver, potentially leading to liver damage, cirrhosis, or cancer. 

Diagnosis:

• Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Rapid Card Test 
• Hepatitis A IgG Antibody Test 
• Hepatitis B e-Antigen (HBeAg) Test
• Hepatitis B Surface Antibodies (HBsAb) Test 
• Hepatitis Screening Panel 
• Hepatitis C Antibody (HCV), Quantitative Test 

Recommended Frequency of Hepatitis Testing

• Generally not recommended for routine screening. Pregnant women should get the test as a part of prenatal screening. 
• HIV-positive people must take the test at least once a year. 
• People with multiple sexual partners must take the test annually. 
• One-time testing is important for all Adults Aged 18-7

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

PID is an infection of the female reproductive organs, commonly caused by untreated STDs like chlamydia or gonorrhoea. It can result in chronic pain, infertility, and other complications.

PID can be tricky to diagnose. Moreover, there needs to be a specific test for it. Your doctor may recommend- 

Diagnosis:

• Pelvic Exam: To check for signs and symptoms of infection and inflammation.
• Ultrasound or MRI: To assess damage to reproductive organs.
• Endometrial Biopsy: In some cases, to detect infection in the uterine lining.

Genital Warts/Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

HPV is a viral infection with some types causing genital warts and others linked to cervical and other cancers.

The human Papillomavirus is the most common STI. There are many different kinds of HPV. In most people, the HPV infection goes away without any treatment. In fact, there are no visible symptoms of the HPV virus, so you might never know you have the HPV virus. The serious HPV virus can cause genital warts or other cervical cancers. 

Diagnosis:

• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) DNA Detector Test
• LBC With HPV DNA Detector Test 

There are HPV tests to diagnose cervical cancer. However, the test is not recommended for males, adults or females under 30. 

Genital Herpes

Genital herpes, caused by the HSV or herpes simplex virus (HSV), can result in painful sores and blisters in the genital area. It may recur and last a lifetime.

Diagnosis-

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) 1 & 2 IgG Ab (Combined)

Recommend frequency for Genital Herpes.

Regular testing for genital herpes is not recommended for everyone or people who are asymptomatic and not at high risk. 

• If you have symptoms such as sores or blisters on your genital area, testing should be done immediately.
• If your sexual partner has been diagnosed with genital herpes, you should consider testing, especially if you have symptoms or are planning to conceive.
• People with multiple sexual partners or those who are HIV-positive may consider testing if they have concerns about exposure.
• Testing might be done if a woman or her partner has a history of genital herpes to manage and reduce the risk of neonatal herpes transmission during delivery.

Types of STDs and Important Tests to Diagnose and recommended frequency of these tests

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a common STI which can affect both males and females. However, when left untreated, it can damage female reproductive organs. 

Diagnosis

• Chlamydia Trachomatis IgM Antibodies Test 
• Chlamydia Pneumoniae IgG Antibodies Test 

Recommended Frequency of Chlamydia Testing

• Women 25 and Older should take the test once a year if they are involved in sexual activities with numerous partners or if their partner has an STD.
• Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM) should take the test every 3-6 months if at higher risk.
• Pregnant women should take the test at the first prenatal visit, as well as during the third trimester, for those at high risk.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is another common bacterial STI that can infect the genital tract, rectum, and throat. Like chlamydia, it may cause no symptoms, especially in women, but can lead to serious health issues if untreated.

Diagnosis: 

• Neisseria Gonorrhoeae DNA Qualitative, PCR Test 
• STD Panel Essential 

Recommended Frequency of Gonorrhea Testing

• Sexually active women who have new or multiple sexual partners or if their partner has an STD must take the test annually.
• Men who have sex with men must take the test every 3-6 months if at higher risk.
• Pregnant women should take the test during their first prenatal visit and repeat it in the third trimester. 

The Bottom Line

STD testing is a vital component of overall health care. It not only protects your health but also the health of your sexual partners and the broader community. Regular testing, combined with safe sexual practices, is key to preventing the spread of STDs and maintaining a healthy, fulfilling life.

Early and accurate diagnosis of STDs is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of complications. Regular testing is essential if you are sexually active or have multiple partners, as it helps in maintaining health and preventing the spread of infections.