For every sexually active adult, it is important to ensure health through regular STD screening. There are seven tests that should be conducted regularly or in certain situations. Let’s take a look at each.
HIV
HIV is the most important test out of all seven. It can cause death if it turns into AIDS. Prevention is key. However, if you do contract HIV it is important to know sooner rather than later through a STD screeningso steps can be taken to improve quality of life for the longest amount of time.
Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is usually tested at the same time as Chlamydia, listed below. Women and men under the age of 25 should be tested annually. Those who are older should be tested if there are risk factors for contracting it.
Chlamydia
As mentioned, this is usually tested for through regular aSTD screening, along with Gonorrhea. The same rules apply for Chlamydia as they do for Gonorrhea. Both can be treated, and early diagnosis is important.
Syphilis
It is important to add Syphilis to your regular STD screening if either of the two apply: you have just become pregnant, or you are a male that has intercourse with other males, even if only occasionally.
Herpes
Nearly everyone should be tested early for herpes, both HSV-1 and HSV-2. If you have multiple partners or are a male who is sexually active with other males, the need for this STD screening is vital. Herpes, either type, is one of the most prevalent STDs in the United States.
Hepatitis B
A woman who has just become pregnant should always ask for this to be added to the STD screening conducted early on. It is important for men who are gay or bisexual to be screened for Hepatitis B regularly.
Hepatitis C in STD Screening
Hepatitis C screening should be performed for any male or female who was born between 1945 and 1965. In addition, those who have already contracted HIV or who are pregnant should be screened. Hepatitis C can be treated and cured if caught early and the right treatment is ordered.
These 7 STD screening recommendations are especially important for both young adults and older depending on risk factors. If you have any reason to suspect an STD, make sure you schedule a STD screening with your doctor. Clinica Las Americas can help not only with diagnosis, but also treatment.