STD Tests

What is STD Testing?

Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) testing is a medical process designed to detect sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, herpes, and more. These infections are typically transmitted through unprotected sexual contact but can also spread via skin-to-skin contact, shared needles, or from mother to child during childbirth.

In Singapore, chlamydia is the most prevalent STI, with an incidence rate of 26.9 per 100,000 people. A 2018 report from the Singapore Department of Sexually Transmitted Infections (DSC) revealed that STDs are most common among individuals aged 20 to 29 years. Alarmingly, the data also indicated a rising STD infection rate among adolescents aged 10 to 19 years.

Adding to the concern is the fact that many STDs can remain in the body for weeks or even months before symptoms appear. This delay not only increases the risk of complications but also the likelihood of unknowingly transmitting infections to others.

Timely STD testing is essential for early detection, and effective treatment. In fact, many STDs are asymptomatic, making regular testing crucial for maintaining both individual, and public health.

A blood test for STD testing can detect the presence of certain antibodies produced by the body in response to an infection.

Why is STD Testing important?

STD testing is crucial for maintaining sexual health, and overall well-being. Some of the benefits of undergoing STD testing include:

Early Detection: many STDs, such as chlamydia, can go unnoticed due to a lack of symptoms. As such, early detection allows for prompt treatment, preventing long-term complications like infertility, or chronic pain.

Preventing Transmission: knowing your status helps protect your sexual partners, and reduce the spread of infections.

Health Monitoring: regular testing ensures that your sexual health remains in check, thereby promoting overall well-being.

Avoiding Complications: untreated STDs can lead to severe health issues, including pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy, and even certain types of cancer.

Phoenix Medical Group STD Screening Packages

In Singapore, STD testing is straightforward, confidential, and widely accessible. At Phoenix Medical, our comprehensive STD Screening Packages entail:

PACKAGE	ESSENTIAL STD PACKAGE	MALE BACTERIAL STD PACKAGE	MEN’S COMPREHENSIVE STD PACKAGE	FEMALE BACTERIAL STD PACKAGE	WOMEN’S COMPREHENSIVE STD PACKAGE
Syphilis Test (VDRL)	✔(RPR & TPLA if positive)		✔ (RPR & TPLA if positive)		✔(RPR & TPLA if positive)
HIV Test	✔		✔		✔
Hepatitis Screen (Hepatitis A/B/C)	✔ (Hepatitis B only)		✔		✔
HSV 1 & 3 Antibody			✔		✔
Chlamydia & Gonorrhea PCR		✔(Urine test)	✔(Urine test)	✔(Swab test)	✔(Swab test)
Genital Mycoplasma & Ureaplasma		✔(Urine test)	✔(Urine test)	✔(Swab test)	✔(Swab test)
Urine Microscopy & Culture		✔	✔	✔	✔
Vaginal Swab for Gram Stain and Culture				✔	✔
VP3 PCR (for yeast, bacterial vaginosis and trichomonas)				✔
Price (including GST)	S$80	S$325	S$430	S$450	S$470

When is STD Testing recommended?

STD testing is an important part of maintaining your sexual, and overall health. It is recommended for the following situations:

Experiencing Symptoms: If you have unusual discharge, genital sores, a burning sensation during urination, or pelvic pain, these could be signs of an STI. Testing is crucial to diagnose and address the issue promptly.

New or Multiple Partners: Prior to engaging in sexual activity with a new partner, it is encouraged for both parties to get tested. This ensures mutual protection and builds trust in the relationship.

Casual Unprotected Sexual Encounters: Any instance of unprotected sex, whether intentional or accidental, warrants immediate testing to assess your risk and take necessary precautions.

Post-Exposure Situations: If you suspect exposure to an STD, testing within the recommended window period ensures accurate results and timely intervention if needed.

By incorporating STD testing into your healthcare regimen, you can safeguard your well-being, and contribute to a healthier community.

Couples who are looking to grow their family can benefit from undergoing STD test as it enables them to have a comprehensive understanding of their current reproductive health status.

What insights does STD Testing offer?

Similar to a comprehensive health screening, STD testing offers more than just results, as it provides actionable insights that empower proactive sexual health management. This includes:

Early Detection of Infections
Early testing identifies infections before symptoms develop, allowing for prompt treatment, and reducing the risk of complications such as infertility, chronic pain, or other serious health issues.

Comprehensive Sexual Health Status
STD testing offers a clear picture of your sexual health, ensuring you are either free from infections or aware of existing conditions. This clarity provides peace of mind, and enables proactive protection for yourself, and your partners.

Prevention of Transmission
Identifying infections early helps prevent unintentional transmission to others, especially in asymptomatic cases where individuals might unknowingly spread an infection.

Minimisation of Long-Term Risks
When STDs are left untreated, they can lead to severe complications like reproductive health issues, chronic illnesses, and a higher risk of acquiring other infections, such as HIV. As such, testing allows for timely intervention to mitigate these risks.

Tailored Treatment Plans
Positive results provide specific information for healthcare providers to prescribe effective treatments, increasing the likelihood of a successful recovery.

Support for Family Planning Goals
For those planning to conceive, knowing your STD status is critical. In fact, early detection, and treatment of infections can protect fertility, and reduce risks during pregnancy.

How many sessions are typically recommended?

There is no consensus on how frequently one should screen for STDs. This will depend on each individual’s risk profile, which can be discussed with the doctor.

If you are seeking a comprehensive understanding of your sexual health or are due for an STD test, the experienced, and knowledgeable doctors at Phoenix Medical are here to assist. With their expertise, you can expect professional care, and accurate testing tailored to your needs. Contact us today to schedule your appointment, and take a proactive step toward your health and well-being.

Are my STD Test results kept confidential?

Yes, your STD results are kept confidential. In Singapore, clinics, and healthcare providers adhere to strict privacy policies, and professional ethics to protect your personal information. As such, only authorised medical staff have access to your medical results, which are stored securely.

Additionally, Singapore’s healthcare regulations ensure that your test details are not disclosed to third parties without your explicit consent. However, there is an exception in cases required by law, such as reporting certain infections to health authorities.

At Phoenix Medical, you can feel assured that your privacy is prioritised throughout the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does STD testing take?
Most STD tests are quick, and straightforward, typically requiring only 20 to 30 minutes for sample collection. Depending on the type of test, such as blood tests, swabs, or urine samples, results are generally available within 1 to 3 days, but specialised tests may take longer.

How should I prepare for STD testing?
Preparing for STD testing is simple:

For urine tests: avoid urinating for 1 to 2 hours before your appointment to ensure a concentrated sample.
For your consultation: Be ready to discuss any symptoms, sexual history, or potential exposure with your doctor for a complete assessment.
For blood tests: fasting is usually not required, but it is always a good idea to confirm with our doctors for specific instructions.

How accurate are the results from STD testing?
STD tests conducted in Singapore are highly reliable, especially when done during the recommended window period after exposure. While tests for infections like HIV are very precise, some may require follow-up tests to confirm initial results, providing additional peace of mind.

How soon will I receive the results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 working days, depending on the type of test. Once received, our doctor will explain the findings, and recommend any necessary treatment or follow-up care.

Are there any risks associated with STD testing?
STD testing is safe, and poses minimal risks. You may experience slight bruising or discomfort from a blood draw or mild unease during a swab test, but these effects are temporary, and typically resolve quickly. The benefits of testing far outweigh these minor inconveniences.

What is the difference between STD and STI Testing?

STIs refer to infections that may not yet show symptoms or progress to a disease state. In contrast, STDs indicate infections that have developed into noticeable symptoms or complications. While the terms are used interchangeably, testing methods for both are identical, aiming to detect infections early, regardless of their stage.

Does my health insurance cover STD testing in Singapore?
Unfortunately, insurance does not cover STD testing. However, it is still best to check with your insurer to confirm what your premium entails.