Tests for Venereal Diseases in Women: STDs and STIs

A discussion about tests for venereal diseases in women often begins with anxiety: what if something is wrong. This article is a reference guide to the types of examinations, without treatment regimens.

How STDs and STIs differ and which infections are tested for

STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) and STIs (sexually transmitted infections) are essentially the same thing. In Russian medicine, the group of venereal diseases includes syphilis, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, HPV, genital herpes, and others. Some STIs can also be transmitted non-sexually: HIV, hepatitis B and C — through blood, chlamydia — from mother to child. In total, more than 20 types of STIs are known, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, trichomoniasis, genital herpes, HPV, and HIV. STI symptoms may include unusual discharge from the vagina, penis, or anus, pain during urination, itching, rashes, sores or warts on the genitals, unusual vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, and fever. Many STIs are caused by bacteria, viruses, and parasites. For women, the consequences can be more severe, and some STIs can be transmitted to the fetus during pregnancy and childbirth.

Smear: how it is taken and what is examined

For the test, a sample of cells is taken from the urethra and from the vagina or anus with a cotton swab. Some tests are a microscopic examination of the affected area or of discharge from the vagina, penis, or anus. Gonorrhea is caused by the gonococcus Neisseria gonorrhoeae and affects the mucous membranes of the urogenital organs.

Which tests are needed

The doctor determines which tests to prescribe after asking about sexual life. The doctor may assess the risks and decide whether testing is needed. A blood test helps identify some STIs, while microscopy of a smear or fluid from the vagina identifies others.

Hidden infections and CMV

Many STIs do not cause symptoms, so the only way to know for sure is through testing. Cytomegalovirus (human herpesvirus type 5) is a viral STI.

When to get tested and whether a partner needs to be examined

If you have unusual discharge, itching, pain during urination, or you are worried after unprotected sex, consult a doctor (gynecologist). During pregnancy with STI symptoms, you should also consult a doctor. The doctor will ask about your sexual life, perform an examination, and prescribe the necessary tests. If there are no symptoms but there was a risk, wait up to 7 weeks — that is how long it may take for the infection to show up in tests. If you are found to have an STI, partners are notified so that they too can be tested and treated; until treatment is completed, you should abstain from sex. If you are sexually active, discuss the risk of STIs and the need for testing with your doctor, especially because many STIs do not cause symptoms. The doctor can advise you on how to tell your partner.

• Smear — a sample of cells from the vagina or urethra with a cotton swab.
• Microscopy of a smear or fluid.
• Urine test and blood test.
• Notifying partners for testing and treatment.

The mere presence of an STI is not a reason to call an ambulance; 103/112 — for a life-threatening condition, for example loss of consciousness or severe bleeding.

Only a specialist can make a diagnosis and prescribe treatment. This article is for reference purposes and does not replace a doctor's consultation.

This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer