How Often Should You Test for STDs?

Generally, you should be tested regularly for sexually transmitted diseases (STD) at least once a year if you are sexually active. In 2018, there were a total of 7,555 reported cases of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Singapore, underscoring the need for regular testing to prevent further spread of infections. Regular testing is also crucial to ensure early detection and treatment to prevent long-term health complications. Understanding your risk factors and knowing how frequent to get tested can provide you peace of mind and help you maintain optimal sexual health.

Asian man going for his regular STD testing.

Graph depicting statistics of STI cases in Singapore in 2018.

Source: Ministry of Health (MOH)

Common Myths About Testing Intervals

Myth: Testing is only necessary if you're in a new relationship.
Reality: Even in long-term monogamous relationships, testing is recommended because STDs can lie dormant for years without symptoms. New infections can also occur if infidelity is a possibility.

Myth: If my partner gets tested, I don't need to.
Reality: While testing your partner is a good step, it doesn't guarantee your own STD-free status. Testing windows (the time it takes for an infection to show up on a test) can vary, and it's possible to contract an STD during the interval between your partner's test and yours.

Myth: Having one negative test result means I'm clear.
Reality: A negative test only indicates your STD status at that specific point in time. If you engage in risky sexual behaviour after the test, you can still contract an STD.

Myth: If I don't have symptoms, I'm fine.
Reality: Many STDs are asymptomatic, meaning they don't cause any noticeable symptoms. Regular testing is the only way to be sure of your STD status.

Understanding these common misconceptions is essential to ensure responsible sexual health practices.

Myths vs reality about STD testing intervals.

Factors Influencing How Often You Should Test

Several factors influence how often you should get tested for STDs, including:

Number of sexual partners: Having multiple partners or new partners increases your risk of exposure.
Type of sexual activities: Certain sexual practices carry a higher risk of STD transmission.
Unprotected sex: While consistent and correct condom use can significantly reduce the risk of STD transmission, it's not foolproof.
Presence of symptoms: While some STDs cause noticeable symptoms, many are asymptomatic.
Risk groups: Individuals who fall into high-risk groups, such as those who engage in commercial sex or with a history of STDs, should generally adhere to more frequent testing schedules (often every three to six months).

Condoms used for protected sex reducing risk of STDs.

Regular Testing Intervals for STDs

Here are suggested testing intervals of common STDs:

Type of STD	Suggested Testing Intervals
Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea	Annual testing is recommended for sexually active women under 25 and women older than 25 with higher risk factors such as new or multiple partners. Men who are sexually active should consider testing annually also.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)	Everyone aged between 13 and 65 should be screened at least once as part of routine health screening. Those at higher risk should test at least once a year.
Syphilis	Annual testing is recommended for sexually active individuals and while those at higher risk should consider more frequent testing.
Hepatitis	Everyone above age 18 should be screened at least once in their lifetime for Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C.
Herpes	Herpes is not generally tested routinely. However, those with symptoms or partners with herpes should consult their doctor.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)	Women between 25 and 65 should test every three to five years depending on age and health history through pap smears and HPV tests. Men are generally not tested regularly for HPV but may be recommended to do so if they exhibit symptoms such as genital warts.

Clinics sometimes offer tests that can detect multiple STDs such as Multiplex PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction). It is important to consult with your doctor on the appropriate tests, testing intervals and treatment plan for your situation. Doing so ensures effective management and reduces the risk of reinfection.

Summary

Regular STD testing is essential for maintaining sexual health. Testing frequency varies based on individual risk factors and the type of STD. Understanding and adhering to recommended testing schedules ensures early detection and effective management. By promoting regular testing and responsible sexual health practices, we can significantly reduce the spread of STDs, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health. If your last STD test was a while ago, we encourage you to get tested to stay informed and protected.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you have new or multiple partners, aim for at least annual testing. Talk to your doctor about a personalised plan based on your sexual history and risk factors.

Consider getting tested after sex with a new partner, if you experience symptoms, have unprotected sex (including oral or anal), or have multiple partners.

Yearly testing is recommended in monogamous relationships. If there are doubts about monogamy or other risk factors, more frequent testing may be necessary. Open communication with your partner about sexual history and testing is crucial.

The CDC recommends annual testing for sexually active women under 25 and individuals with multiple sexual partners. Specific recommendations may vary based on individual risk factors and behaviours.

If exposed to an STD, get an initial test and another after the infection window closes. High-risk individuals may benefit from more frequent testing.

At least once a year is recommended for those with multiple partners.

Symptoms may appear at various times for different STDs: chlamydia (1-3 weeks) and gonorrhoea (1-14 days), syphilis (10 days to 3 months), herpes (2-12 days), HIV (few weeks). Some infections may be asymptomatic as well.

Continue testing throughout your sexually active life, especially with new or multiple partners.

HIV, herpes, hepatitis B, and HPV are currently not curable but are manageable with treatment.

Yes, testing after every new partner helps ensure early detection and treatment.

Many STDs are asymptomatic, making it difficult to determine who had it first.

Yes, open communication and mutual testing are important for sexual health.

Get tested at least annually, or more frequently if you're at higher risk.

Regular testing is crucial for early detection and reducing complications.

Yes, comprehensive testing panels are available. At ATA Medical, we offer STD screening packages to test for various STDs.