How to Test for STDs in Throat: Same-Day Appointment (2025)

How to Test for STDs in the Throat?

Dr. Leonard Leng of ATA Medical Singapore.
Authored By: Dr. Leonard Leng.
Last updated: Mar 16, 2025.

A throat swab is used to detect certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs), particularly chlamydia and gonorrhoea. These infections can be transmitted through oral sex. Given that they were the most common STIs in Singapore in 2018, regular testing is recommended for sexually active individuals.

Asian man opening mouth for doctor to check for STIs.
Chlamydia is the top STI in Singapore at 2719 cases according to a 2018 study.
Source: National Skin Centre (NCS)

Potential Symptoms

While oral STIs often present with no symptoms, some possible signs include a sore throat, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, fever and difficulty swallowing. However, it's important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other health conditions, so it is important to seek medical advice from a doctor.

Asian woman experiencing sore throat as a symptom of oral STI.

Common Testing Procedure

The procedure for a throat swab test is quick and minimally invasive. Here's what to expect:

  • Preparation: You'll sit comfortably and tilt your head back slightly.
  • Swab Collection: A doctor will gently insert a soft, sterile swab into the back of your throat. They will rub the swab against your tonsils and the back wall of your throat to collect a sample. The process may cause mild discomfort or a brief gag reflex, but it's generally well-tolerated.
  • Sample Handling: The swab is then placed in a sterile container and sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Asian doctor performing throat swab test on asian man to test for STIs.

Type of Tests

The main method for analysing throat swab samples is polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing, which is highly accurate in detecting chlamydia and gonorrhoea, even in small amounts. Results are usually available within one to three days. However, throat swab tests are not always included in standard STD screenings, so remember to check with the clinic for availability.

Graphic depicting DNA of STI bacteria and viruses.

Who Should Get Tested

Regular testing is recommended for sexually active individuals, especially those with multiple partners or those who engage in unprotected oral sex. Even if you don't have any symptoms, getting tested periodically is important because throat STDs can be asymptomatic and still be transmitted to sexual partners.

Graphic depicting multiple sexual partners at risk of contracting oral STI.

Summary

Throat swab testing is a vital tool in the detection and management of STIs in the throat. By understanding the testing procedure and importance of regular testing, you can take proactive steps to maintain your sexual health by ensuring early detection and treatment. Regular screening, even in the absence of symptoms, is crucial for sexually active individuals to prevent potential spread of STIs. If you are unsure of which testing option is best for you, consult a doctor today to discuss more.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Symptoms of STDs in the throat can vary but may include sore throat, redness, swelling, white spots, or pain when swallowing. Some infections, like gonorrhoea and chlamydia, might cause no symptoms at all. It's important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions.
Common STDs that can infect the throat include gonorrhoea, chlamydia, syphilis, and herpes. Human papillomavirus (HPV) can also affect the throat, primarily transmitted through oral sex.
Throat STDs may appear as redness, swelling, or white patches. However, many throat infections have no visible symptoms. For example, white spots could indicate oral thrush, a yeast infection, rather than an STD.
Yes, a throat swab can detect STDs like gonorrhoea and chlamydia. The swab collects a sample from the throat, which is then tested in a lab. However, throat swab tests primarily detect these two STDs. Other STDs might require different testing methods.
Throat STDs do not go away on their own and require treatment with appropriate antibiotics or antiviral medications.
The time it takes for STD symptoms to appear in the mouth varies depending on the infection. Gonorrhoea and chlamydia symptoms usually show up within 1-3 weeks, while syphilis and herpes may take longer.
To check for throat STDs, a healthcare provider will use a throat swab to collect a sample from the back of your throat. The sample is then tested for the presence of STD pathogens.
STDs that are not curable include herpes (HSV), HIV, and HPV. These infections can be managed with medication but remain in the body for life.
Some bacterial STDs, like chlamydia and gonorrhoea, can be cured with antibiotics. Viral STDs, such as herpes and HIV, are not curable but can be managed with medication.
It is difficult to know if you have an STD without getting tested because many STDs do not show symptoms. Testing is the only reliable way to diagnose an STD.
No, throat chlamydia does not go away on its own. It requires treatment with antibiotics.
A sore throat can be caused by various factors, including STDs, allergies, irritants, or other infections. It's important to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis.
No, urine tests cannot detect STIs in the throat. Throat infections require a swab sample from the throat for accurate testing.
Symptoms can include a sore throat, redness, swelling, white patches, pain during swallowing, or no symptoms at all.
To test for STDs in the mouth, a healthcare provider will typically take a swab sample from the inside of your mouth or throat. However, testing methods can vary depending on the suspected infection. It's essential to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and testing.