STD (STI) Test in Singapore

What Is an STD (STI) Test?

STD screening in Singapore is a medical examination that checks for the presence of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The testing process can involve different kinds of samples depending on the infection. Blood samples may be drawn from a vein or a fingertip. Swabs might be collected from the mouth, urethra, vagina, or anus. In some cases, samples from affected skin areas, such as scrapings or small tissue biopsies, may also be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

Many STIs may not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages. Testing is the only reliable way to know your status and protect both your health and the health of your partners.

Why Should You Get Tested for STDs (STIs)?

Getting tested for STDs is crucial for your sexual and overall health. Many STDs can be asymptomatic initially, meaning they do not show any obvious symptoms in the early stages. Without an STD test, you might unknowingly spread the infection to others. Untreated STDs can also increase the risk of developing serious health complications such as infertility, cancer, and an increased risk of HIV.

Regular STD/STI testing allows you to detect infections earlier on and embark on effective treatment promptly before any complications arise. People who are at higher risk of contracting an STD should get tested and screened in a timely and regular manner. Our STD screening clinic in Singapore provides a comprehensive range of tests in a private and supportive setting.

The frequency of STD testing depends on your individual risk factors:

• If you are sexually active with multiple partners, you should be tested every three to six months.
• Individuals in long-term, monogamous relationships should still consider yearly testing, particularly if either partner has had previous sexual partners.
• Anyone starting a new relationship should ideally get tested before engaging in unprotected sexual activity.

What Are the Most Commonly Screened STDs (STIs)?

STDs can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites and often involve the genitals, anus, mouth, or throat. Understanding the different types of STDs is the first step towards protecting your health and receiving proper treatment.

1. HIV

   – HIV is a virus that weakens the immune system by targeting and destroying certain white blood cells. It is mainly spread through sexual contact, sharing needles, or from mother to child during childbirth.

2. Syphilis

   – Syphilis is a bacterial infection caused by Treponema pallidum. It progresses in stages, starting with painless sores at the site of infection, followed by rashes, fever, and swollen glands. This infection is mostly spread through sexual contact, including oral sex.

3. Herpes

   – Herpes refers to infections caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which comes in two types: HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 often causes cold sores around the mouth, while HSV-2 typically leads to genital herpes.

4. Hepatitis

   – Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver usually caused by viral infections such as hepatitis A, B, or C. Hepatitis B and C, in particular, can be transmitted through sexual contact, blood exposure, or from mother to baby at birth. Chronic hepatitis may lead to liver failure or liver cancer if untreated.

5. Chlamydia

   – Chlamydia is a common bacterial infection. It often does not cause obvious symptoms, especially in women, but can lead to serious complications such as infertility if untreated. In men, it may cause discharge from the penis and pain during urination.

6. Gonorrhea

   – Gonorrhea infects the mucous membranes of the genitals, rectum, and throat. It can also silently damage reproductive organs without noticeable symptoms. Left untreated, gonorrhoea can cause infertility and can spread to the bloodstream, leading to more serious health issues.

7. NSU (Non-Specific Urethritis)

   – Non-specific urethritis (NSU) refers to inflammation of the urethra not caused by gonorrhoea. It is often linked to other infections, such as chlamydia, or may result from irritation.

8. HPV (Human Papillomavirus)

   – One of the most common STIs globally, Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of viruses that can infect the skin and mucous membranes. Some strains cause genital warts, while others are linked to cancers of the cervix, throat, anus, and penis.

For accurate results, a detailed history and examination by Dr Tan at our STD clinic will be conducted before the painless screening.

STD screening tests are usually painless and use the following sampling methods:

• Throat
• Rectal
• Vaginal
• Urine
• Semen

It is important to note that STDs do not resolve by themselves. A good STD screening program takes into account the patient’s specific situation and requirements and uses this situation to tailor the necessary tests for that individual patient.

Modes of STD (STI) Testing & Screening

STD testing in Singapore can involve a range of diagnostic methods, each chosen according to the specific infection suspected and the symptoms present. Since no single test can detect all sexually transmitted diseases, doctors often choose the most suitable method based on clinical signs, patient history, and risk factors.

• Blood Tests are typically used to diagnose HIV, syphilis, or herpes. Blood tests may involve drawing blood samples from the arm or a finger prick. Herpes blood tests, however, are usually used when active lesions are not present, to check for past exposure.
• Oral Tests are performed to identify infections like chlamydia or gonorrhoea. The procedure involves gently swabbing the inside of the mouth or throat to collect samples for analysis. These are then examined for traces of bacterial or viral DNA.
• Urine Tests are utilised if there is a suspicion of trichomoniasis or gonorrhoea. This test requires the patient to urinate into a sterile cup in order to provide a sample for examination. This method is often used when genital symptoms are mild or absent.
• Genital Swab Tests are used to diagnose infections like chlamydia, gonorrhoea, HPV, or herpes, swab tests may be performed. This method involves taking samples from the vagina, cervix, penis, or urethra using a sterile swab.
• Blister or Sore Swab Tests are performed if herpes is suspected. A healthcare provider may take samples from any active sores or blisters. This process is done using a sterile swab to collect fluid for analysis.

Frequently Asked Questions About Our STD (STI) Tests