Do you know that almost half of the new STDs are diagnosed in young adults? The younger lot has all the data and resources but tends to overlook the importance of regular STD testing.
The rising numbers are a cry for help making regular STD testing more important than ever. Most teenagers keep wondering should I get tests done if I do not have any symptoms.
Well, in this blog, we will find out who should get tested and debunk common myths while suggesting ways to combat the issue. Other than that, we will also talk about accessible testing options to make sure everyone leads a healthy sex life.
The Reality of STDs Among Young People
The younger lot from 15 to 24 are actually affected by STDs on a regular basis. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this age group accounts for 53% of the new STI cases yearly in the United States.
This could happen due to factors such as increased sexual activity, lack of education on safe practices, and limited access of this age group to healthcare.
Most young people avoid getting tested due to a combination of stigma, fear, and lack of awareness.
Common STDs Among Young People
STDs can be transmitted via sexual contact including vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It is important to know that some of these can also spread during other activities that include skin-to-skin sexual contact.
Some of the most common STDs affecting young people include:
– Chlamydia
– Gonorrhea
– Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
– Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)
– Syphilis
– HIV/AIDS
Each of these infections can affect the person differently. Some can be treated completely while others may lead to long-term effects on health if left untreated.
Long-term consequences of untreated STDs
Untreated sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can lead to severe long-term health complications. Here are some consequences:
Infertility: Diseases like chlamydia and gonorrhoea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, which may lead to infertility. In men, untreated infections can negatively impact sperm health and fertility.
Chronic Pain: Conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease and untreated syphilis can result in long-term pelvic or abdominal pain.
Increased HIV Risk: Untreated STDs also increase the risk of contracting or transmitting HIV.
Pregnancy Complications: Infections like syphilis or herpes during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage or congenital infections in newborns.
Organ Damage: Advanced stages of untreated syphilis can damage the brain, heart, and other organs, which can be life-threatening.
Cancer Risk: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a leading cause of cervical, anal, and throat cancers when left untreated.
Emotional and Social Impact: Persistent health issues, stigma, and concerns about infertility or transmission can lead to stress, anxiety, or depression. This may sabotage mental health which can also impact physical health.
Regular testing and timely treatment can prevent these complications and support long-term health and well-being.
Why is STD Testing Important?
STD testing is a doable preventive measure that can allow any sexually active person to find their health status and seek treatment when needed. Here are some compelling reasons why anyone sexually active, especially in their teens or twenties, should prioritize regular STD testing:
Protecting Physical Health
If you are wondering should I get tested for STD without symptoms, then it is important to know that some STDs remain asymptomatic during the early stages.Â
Common STDs like chlamydia and gonorrhoea can be asymptomatic, which means that a person could be infected and have no idea, but still spread the infection.
If left untreated, these infections can lead to serious health complications such as infertility, chronic pain, and even an increased risk of contracting HIV.
Ragular testing can allow young people to detect infections early and seek required treatment to avoid future complications.
Preventing Spread to Partners
If someone is aware of their STD status, they may unknowingly spread the infection to others. Testing helps the person to protect their own health along with their partner’s health. Â
It is ideal to inculcate responsible sexual health practices, including open communication and regular testing. These practices demonstrate respect and care for partners and help in reducing the overall rate of infection.
Overcoming Stigma and Normalizing Health Care
One of the biggest barriers to STD testing is the stigma associated with STDs themselves. Youngsters especially fear judgment and are embarrassed to discuss their sexual health with a healthcare provider.
However, the more people normalize regular testing, the more we can break down these stigmas.
We need to build a society where young people can prioritise their health without feeling ashamed.
Empowering People to Take Charge of Their Health
Getting tested empowers young people to make informed decisions about their bodies and health. Understanding your health status means you are in control.Â
It allows you to seek treatment, make lifestyle adjustments if necessary, and be more cautious and honest in future relationships. This empowerment encourages a sense of responsibility and confidence that is crucial for maintaining overall well-being.
Promoting Mental Health and Reducing Anxiety
The uncertainty of not knowing your STD status can lead to unnecessary anxiety, which can take a toll on mental health.Â
Regular testing provides peace of mind for the ones who are sexually active.Â
Being aware of your results, whether positive or negative, allows you to make decisions and eliminates the stress of the unknown thereby promoting mental well-being.
Prevention Tips
The best way to protect young adults from STIs is through open communication, safe practices, and education.
Here are effective ways to reduce STI risk-
Practice Mutual Monogamy: Encourage monogamous relationships with STI-free partners.
Use Condoms Consistently: Consistent and correct use of male or female condoms reduces the risk of STD transmission.
Understand HIV Prevention Options:Â It is important to learn about PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) for recent exposure risks, and PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) for ongoing protection.
Know the STI Symptoms: Early recognition and regular check-ups for STIs and HIV can prevent future complications.
Promote Delayed Sexual Activity: Waiting before you become sexually active can also reduce STI risks.
Avoid Risky Practices: Learn about various techniques like avoiding sex during menstruation, and anal intercourse, as these can increase infection risks.
Also, watch Video: Why anal sex is more infectious for HIV and STD
Other than that, regular medical check-ups and safe practices can help young adults make informed choices and protect their health.
Myths and Misconceptions About STD Testing
There are many myths surrounding STD testing, and these misconceptions can prevent people from seeking help. Here are a few common myths and the truth behind them:
Myth: I don’t have symptoms, so I do not need to get tested.
Truth: Many STDs are asymptomatic in the early stages. Not having symptoms does not necessarily mean you are free from infection.
Myth: Only people who have a lot of partners need to get tested.
Truth: Even people in monogamous relationships or those who have a single partner can contract an STD. Testing is required for everyone who is sexually active.
Myth: STD tests are invasive and painful.
Truth: Most STD tests are simple and need either a urine sample, a swab, or a blood test, all of which are minimally invasive.
Myth: Getting tested means I have an STD.
Truth: Testing is a preventative measure and not an indication of infection. It is a mindful step toward taking charge of your health.
When and How Often to Get Tested?
The CDC recommends that sexually active people, especially young people under 25, should get tested at least once a year for common STDs like chlamydia and gonorrhea.
For those who have multiple partners, testing every three to six months may be more appropriate. Moreover, if you or your partner have symptoms, such as unusual discharge, pain during urination, or sores, it is recommended to consult a sexual healthcare provider. Â
What to Expect During an STD Test? or Regular STD Testing
For someone who has never got their STD tests done, the process may seem intimidating. But don’t worry, the process is simple and is usually easily available at most health centres.
Here is what you can expect during a testing experience :
Consultation: The sexual healthcare provider may ask you about your sexual history and any symptoms you might have.Â
Take this as an opportunity to ask any questions you have in mind and get personalized recommendations. Do not think too much as healthcare providers are not there to judge you but help you in the best way possible.
Testing Procedure: You will be asked for a blood sample, urine sample, and/or a swab from the genital area depending on the infections you are being tested for. The procedure is usually simple, quick, and painless.
Results: You may get your hands on the results in a few minutes or days, depending on the mode of testing. Most clinics now offer online portals or other means where you can access the information privately.
Next Steps: If you test positive, book a consultation with a healthcare provider. Do not panic as most STDs can be treated with antibiotics or antiviral medications.
For untreatable infections, such as HIV, early detection can help in better management of the condition.
Where to Get Tested?
You can easily get yourself tested in India. There are multiple options including government hospitals, private clinics, and home testing. Here is the list of all the options –
Government Hospitals and Health Centers
Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and Community Health Centres (CHCs): The public health infrastructure includes PHCs and CHCs, which offer free or low-cost regular STD testing and treatment services.
These centres are present in rural as well as urban areas and provide testing services for common STDs.
National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) Testing Centers: NACO has established Integrated Counselling and Testing Centers (ICTCs) across the country. They provide testing services, basic information, and link the people to other sources if required.
In the year 2015-16, almost 29 million people accessed counselling and testing services in the country’s ICTCs.
District Hospitals: Many district hospitals in India have special sexual and reproductive health clinics where young people can get regular STD testing and consultation.
Private Hospitals and Clinics
Multi-specialty and Private Hospitals: Many private hospitals in urban areas provide sexual health services, including regular STD testing.
The testing services in private hospitals can be more expensive than the government institutions but may provide faster results and specialised care.
Private Sexual Health Clinics: Some sexual health clinics also offer confidential regular STD testing and counseling. These clinics provide a high level of discretion and privacy for young adults who are concerned about people finding out.
NGOs and Non-Profit Organizations
The Humsafar Trust: This organization provides free or low-cost STD and HIV testing among other services, specifically for the LGBTQ+ community in India. They have centres in cities like Mumbai, Pune, Gangtok, Nagpur, Amritsar and provide a safe, stigma-free environment.
SAATHII (Solidarity and Action Against the HIV Infection in India): SAATHII works across India to support people who are at high risk of HIV and other STDs. They collaborate with local healthcare providers and other organisations to offer testing and counselling services.
Population Services International (PSI) India: PSI India offers programs targeting reproductive and sexual health, including STD and HIV testing for underserved communities.
At-Home Testing Kits
MyLab Discovery Solutions: MyLab is a start-up company offering at-home regular STD testing kits that help in collecting samples at the convenience of home.
MyLab’s at-home testing kits for HIV, syphilis, and other infections allow people to collect samples, send them to certified labs for testing, and get their hands on results online.
Healthcare Platforms Like Practo and 1mg: These online health platforms now offer STD testing packages that can be booked online. They provide the option of sample collection from home. The results can be accessed securely through their platforms.
College and University Health Centers: Many universities and colleges also offer on-campus healthcare services where students can get tested for STDs.Â
Some institutions also partner with local healthcare providers or NGOs to provide students with free or low-cost regular STD testing, along with educating young adults about sexual health.
Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centers: It was launched as part of the Ayushman Bharat initiative, where health and wellness centres are designed to provide comprehensive primary care, including regular STD testing and HIV screening in rural areas across the country.Â
They offer free testing and treatment options which makes them accessible to young people seeking affordable healthcare.
Key Takeaways
Get Educated: Learn about STDs, their symptoms, and why testing matters.
Normalize Testing: Make testing a routine part of your health care like regular dental check-ups.
Use Protection: Practicing safe sex can reduce the risk of STD transmission.
Communicate Openly: Honest discussions with partners can prevent misunderstandings and promote well-being.
Bottom Line
Being in charge of your sexual well-being with STD testing highlights responsible behavior. It is crucial to break the stigma and update yourself to protect yourself and your partner. It will ensure a healthier life for everyone.
Stop waiting, and book the test to find out your status and encourage your peers to do the same.