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Are you worried that you may have contracted a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD)? If so, it is important for you to undergo a test and confirm the diagnosis as soon as possible, so that you can begin treatment without any delay. There are several types of STD tests that you may be asked to go through, depending upon the symptoms you are experiencing. The types of STD tests for men and women are quite similar. However, there are a few tests that are conducted mainly for women.

For Men

• Physical exam: To diagnose an STD, the first test conducted by most of the doctors is a physical exam. During the physical test, the physician will also ask questions about the man’s sexual practices and history. A physician will examine not just the genital area, but also the oral cavity and the rectum.
• Genital swabs: During the physical exam, if the doctor detects any abnormalities on the genitalia, further tests may be recommended. Men suffering from an STD usually secrete an abnormal discharge. Some STDs lead to lesions or sores on the mouth or genitalia. In such instances, the doctor will take tissue and fluid samples from the lesions and will send them to a lab for testing.
• Blood tests and urine tests: There are some STDs that are not easily detectible through a physical exam. That is why blood and urine samples need to be tested in a lab.

For Women

Different types of STD tests are performed on women, depending upon the infection or the condition that is suspected. The diseases or conditions that can be diagnosed through the types of STD tests include Aids/ HIV, Herpes, Gonorrhea, Chlamydia, Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), syphilis, Hepatitis B and trichomoniasis.

In order to diagnose most STDs women too may be required to undergo a physical exam, swabbing, blood tests and urine tests. However, one of the types of STD tests conducted only for women is the pelvic exam. During this test, the health care provider checks the vaginal area for signs and symptoms of infection. Then, the internal part of the vagina and the cervix are also examined. For this, the doctor inserts a metal speculum into the vagina. Deeper exams may also be carried out for checking uterine abnormalities.

Though some STDs may be milder as compared to the others, it is important that you address any of them without any delay.