As sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) continue to be a major public health issue, it is essential for individuals who take part in sexual activities to undergo regular testing to ensure that they are free from any infections. STDs have a diverse range of symptoms that can vary from one disease to another. Some may cause discomfort or pain, while others may not exhibit any immediate symptoms at all, which makes it more challenging to identify and treat them. Fortunately, there are numerous ways to test for STDs, including through the use of urine samples. In this post, we will be discussing how long it takes to get STD test results back from the doctor using urine.
Why Should You Get Tested for STDs?
Before delving into how long it takes to get test results back, it is essential to know why getting tested for STDs is imperative. The primary reason is that most STDs do not have visible symptoms or signs, making it impossible to know that they exist until it’s too late. Additionally, untreated STDs can have severe health consequences, such as infertility, meningitis, and even death. Getting tested regularly is essential, mainly because early detection can prevent further damage and reduce the risk of spreading the disease to others.
How Can You Test for STDs Using Urine?
Testing for STDs using a urine sample is a standard method that healthcare providers use to determine the presence of various sexually transmitted diseases. The test typically involves collecting a small sample of urine that will be analyzed and screened for any infections. The urine sample can test for several STDs, including gonorrhea, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, and mycoplasma genitalium.
Here’s what you should expect when you go for an STD test:
1. Your healthcare provider will ask you to fill out an assessment form with questions regarding your sexual history, including the number of sexual partners, frequency of intercourse, and any other symptoms you may have observed.
2. Based on the information collected, your healthcare provider will determine which STDs they need to test for.
3. If testing for chlamydia or gonorrhea, your healthcare provider will ask you to provide a urine sample. If you are testing for trichomoniasis or mycoplasma genitalium, your healthcare provider may take a swab from your vagina or penis.
4. The urine sample or swab will be sent to a laboratory for analysis.
How Long Does It Take to Get STD Test Results Back from the Doctor Using Urine?
The answer to how long it takes to get STD test results back from the doctor using urine can vary depending on several factors, including the laboratory used and the type of STD being tested for. However, in most cases, the results are typically ready within 1-3 business days.
For instance, chlamydia and gonorrhea tests usually take one to two business days. Labs use nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs), which are highly sensitive molecular tests that identify the genetic material of bacteria in the urine to detect these infections. The laboratory will analyze the urine sample and look for any signs of the bacteria that cause these infections. A positive result means that you will require antibiotic treatment to eliminate the infection.
On the other hand, tests for trichomoniasis and mycoplasma genitalium may take up to a week to obtain results. This is because lab technicians need to culture the specimen obtained from the swab before they can perform further testing. Since these tests are less common than chlamydia and gonorrhea tests, some laboratories may need to send the sample out to another facility for analysis, leading to longer waiting times.
What Happens After You Receive Your Test Results?
Once your healthcare provider receives your test results, they will contact you to inform you about the results. If your test results come back positive, they will offer treatment options that are appropriate for the specific STD found. Treatments may include taking antibiotics, antivirals, or other medications.
It is essential to note that receiving a positive test result does not mean that your life has come to an end. It merely means that you need to take the necessary steps to treat the infection and prevent its transmission to others. With proper care and treatment, most STDs are entirely curable, and individuals can resume their sexual activities once they have completed their course of treatment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, getting tested for STDs using a urine sample is a fast and straightforward process that yields accurate results within a few business days. Prompt testing and treatment are essential to managing STDs since they can lead to more severe health complications if left untreated. If you are sexually active, it is advisable to get tested regularly, whether or not you exhibit any symptoms or signs of infection. Ultimately, knowing your STD status will help you take better care of your health and prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections.