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What is an STI?
STI is short for sexually transmitted infections. It refers to diseases whose primary transmission mode is sexual contact (whether oral, vaginal, or anal).
Other ways by which persons can contract STIs are: through breastfeeding, pregnancy, childbirth, contact with infected blood, or personal care equipment.
Common Symptoms of STIs
The most common symptom of STI is no symptom.
Other less common symptoms which may vary amongst individuals include:
1. Bumps, sores, or warts on or near the penis, vagina, mouth, or anus.
2. Swelling, redness, or severe itching near the penis, or vagina.
3. Vaginal, or penile discharge with a foul smell or one that irritates.
4. Vaginal bleeding that’s not your period.
5. Painful sex.
6. Skin rash.
7. Weight loss, diarrhoea, night sweats.
8. Body aches, pains, fever, and chills.
9. Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes).
10. Painful urination or frequent urination.
Why STI testing is important
Although more than 1 million sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are transmitted daily globally, most infected persons are asymptomatic.
Therefore, whether or not you are sexually active, you must make STI screening a regular habit.
Also, when discovered early, STIs can easily be treated and managed to ensure an excellent quality of life even after infection.
What you will need to get tested
Depending on the STIs you’d like to test for, we may collect one or more of the following samples-
1. Urine sample.
2. Blood sample.
3. Cheek swab.
We may also need to examine your genital area or the discharge site.
Can a woman on her period test for STDs?
Yes.
As stated above, we can use a blood sample to test for STIs.
How can I protect myself from STIs?
If you’re sexually active, please screen regularly before and after sex with all new partners to avoid health complications from STIs.
On the contrary, if sexually inactive, you should get tested at least once annually, as sex is not the only method of STI transmission.
To further protect yourself from an STI infection, you should also:
- Avoid sharing personal hygiene equipment.
- Use a condom whenever you have sex.
- Choose sexual partners carefully and try to limit sexual partners to one at a time.
- Make STI testing a habit.
- Before having sex with new partners, insist on you two getting tested.
- Educate yourself about STIs.
Does Afriglobal Medicare have any STI testing package or discount?
Yes.
Please select the button below to explore the range of STI testing options available for both males and females
How can I book?
For bookings, kindly call us on 02016291000, or 02016290998. You may also walk into any of our test centres for immediate testing.