STD Testing for Men

While women can refer to gynecologists for checking for STDs, for men it's generally a confusion as to where should they go for getting tested for STD. In the recent years, cases of sexually transmitted disease infection (STD) have increased drastically. STD testing for men must be encouraged as men who are involved in sex with multiple partners are at a very high risk of transferring STDs to other partners. As such there is no drastic difference in STD testing procedure for men or women however, certain small differences exist between testing procedures for both genders.

STD Testing: What to Expect
Men who're going for STD testing must ensure that they firstly visit an expert medical guide with regards to information about STD tests. Depending on the type of STD (different STDs require different techniques of STD detection), testing for men is carried out. In the recent years, various clinics and pathology labs have been established by NGOs, in addition, governments do provide adequate information about STD infection and testing.

• The frequency of STD testing should be at least once a year to detect the threat of diseases like syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea and HIV.
• For finding adequate place of STD testing for men, one can check out college or university health departments (for students). Most schools and colleges conduct free STD testing programs and hence they can be beneficial for college students. For others, they can contact State health department and find out programs about STD testing for men. State department charge nominal fee for STD testing. Lastly, easiest way is to visit a primary care physician who will provide you with all measures of STD testing.
• Some most common STD signs like sores and lesions on penis and around genital area are easily tested and an expert can tell about the possibility of STD infection. Clinical tests and samples can further strengthen their claims.
• Blood tests are another part of STD testing for men. Procedure of blood testing involves taking a sample of blood and detecting presence of viruses of HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, syphilis.
• Urine tests are generally used in testing for Chlamydia and gonorrhea.
• A Swab (although some may not be comfortable with swab) taken from sores on penis or around genital area is another effective STD testing for men.
• Genital warts and HPV are generally detected by going for biopsy.

It has to be understood that every male who is sexually active and especially with multiple partners must not ignore going for STD testing. This is essential because even with safe sexual practices, an individual can get infected with STDs. Be it vaginal, oral or anal sex, any type of sexual activity makes one vulnerable to STDs. Men must not hesitate to go for STD testing as it an integral part of excellent sexual health. For specific types of STDs like HIV/AIDS, Human Papillomavirus (HPV) etc., there are specific testing methods. Every time you go for a STD screening, ensure that you discuss your concerns and queries with your doctor. Asking for a STD tests is important and appreciated as you're not only safeguarding your life but also your partners.

Since unsafe sex is still one of the major reasons for spreading of STDs in the adults, an awareness about the dangerous consequences of unprotected sex is of absolute importance. Be ready to face the facts, in case you're tested positive with any of the STDs. Shame, fear, guilt, anger etc. all sorts of emotions will pop up one by one, however, you've got to hope for the best and should not let your emotions get in the way of treatment. Seeking expert counseling helps a lot.