Protecting Yourself From STDs

Getting an STD is probably the last thing on your mind when you are out for a night of fun. However, learning how to protect yourself from it can save you a lot of worry and complications!

What are STDs?

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) are infections that can be transmitted through sexual contact that not only includes penetrative sexual intercourse, but also other forms of sexual activity such as oral sex or even skin-to-skin contact.

While HIV tends to spring to one’s mind, there are others such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, and HPV which are more common.

Anyone who is sexually active is at risk of contracting an STD. It is made more complicated by the fact that not all STDs cause symptoms. In fact, an individual can look and feel well but still carry and transmit an infection. Regular sexual health screening is the only sure way to be certain of your sexual health.

STD Screening In Collaboration With Moonstone

Dtap is pleased to announce our partnership with Moonstone for comprehensive STD screening services.

Moonstone @ Amoy is a bar filled with high-spirited and carefree people. Their ever-evolving menu never disappoints as they offer top-tier food and drinks to kick-start a party.

Speak to any of our doctors today for more information.

Campaign valid till: 31 May 2022

What are the symptoms of STDs?

STDs can cause a multitude of symptoms and signs.

In males, urinary STDs may cause dysuria (pain during urination), increased frequency of urination, increased urgency to urinate, penile discharge, testicular pain or even pelvic pain.

Females with vaginal STDs may experience abnormal amounts of vaginal discharge, itching, foul-smelling discharge, bleeding after intercourse, bleeding in between periods, and pelvic pain.

Other STDs such as herpes, syphilis, and HPV can cause abnormal skin conditions such as genital ulcers, blisters, and abnormal growths like warts. STDs can also cause non-specific symptoms such as fever, lymph node swelling, and generalised body rashes.

Additionally, some of these STDs may not cause overt symptoms, but can lead to serious consequences it left untreated. For example, symptoms of chlamydia may not develop in as much as 75% of infected females, but can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, a condition that can potentially lead to infertility. HPV (Human Papillomavirus) remains silent but increases one’s risk of developing cervical cancer.

Who Should Get Tested?

It is recommended that anyone who has been sexually active and has never done a test before get screened for their sexual health. If you are with a partner whose sexual health status is unknown, or any reason to believe that you may have been infected, getting a test done is paramount.

How do I get tested?

During your screening, your doctor will speak to you to find out what tests may be the most suitable for you. You may be required to provide a blood, urine, and/or swab sample.

What happens if I test positive for an STD?

If your test results returned positive, do not panic. Your doctor will advise you on the appropriate treatment. Many infections can be completely treated with the appropriate antibiotics. While there are certain infections that may persist in the body, it can be managed with consistent medical treatment.

It is also highly advisable to inform your partner(s) who may have been exposed to get tested and treated as well.

How can I prevent STDs?

You can prevent such cases from happening by observing safe sexual practices such as using barrier protection/condoms. Knowing that your partner(s) have also been screened and are clear of infections may also provide you with further assurances.

However, this does not completely eradicate the risk of STDs. The best way to do so is to protect and safeguard yourself with regular screenings.

Speak to our doctors today! Please call or visit our Robertson Branch or drop us an email at hello@dtapclinic.com.sg for an appointment.

Sexual Health (Rapid Testing) Packages

*Prices shown are before GST.

  • Students
  • Strains tested:

    HIV 3rd Gen
    Syphilis
    Chlamydia
    Gonorrhea

  • $240
  • Non-Students
  • Strains tested:

    HIV 3rd Gen
    Syphilis
    Chlamydia
    Gonorrhea

  • $274
  • Walk-Ins
  • Strains tested:

    HIV 3rd Gen
    Syphilis
    Chlamydia
    Gonorrhea

  • $299

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