Having sexual health screening as a man is vital for your wellness and relationship with your partner. A sexual health screening allows you to discuss any health concerns you may have, including those regarding STIs and HIV. You don’t need to have physical symptoms to get a sexual health screening. When you are sexually active, having a regular sexual health screening is always a good idea. The first step to better sexual health is to have an open and honest discussion with a doctor or nurse you trust.
What Sexual Health Screening Do You Need
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HIV Test
The most important aspect of a sexual health screening is the HIV test. AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) can be caused by HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), an infection transmitted through sexual contact. Finding HIV early is critical for treatment. The United States Preventive Services Taskforce recommends that men aged 15 to 65 should have an HIV test at least once as part of their regular sexual health screening.
The test can be done via a simple blood test or an oral swab and will return results that will allow you to take control of your health. Many sexual health clinics offer HIV tests. Their prices vary depending on where you go and what type of test you receive.
STDs Test
Another important test that should be included in every man’s sexual health screening is the STD test. STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases) such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis can have serious long-term consequences for your health if left untreated. If you are dating someone new or planning to marry, you should get an STD test. If you or your partner develop any symptoms of an STD, you should seek immediate testing. An STD test requires blood, urine, or swabs from all affected areas.
Hepatitis B and C Test
Hepatitis B and C are two viruses that can be spread through sex. These infections can harm the liver and, in extreme cases, lead to liver cancer. Hepatitis B and C tests are required as part of a sexual health screening. Most sexual wellness centers provide these tests, which require a blood sample.
Herpes Test
The herpes virus can cause sores or blisters in the mouth and genital area. Herpes can be spread through oral, vaginal, or anal contact with an infected individual. This could be contacted sexually or non-sexually. Kissing is the most common way to contract oral herpes (HSV-1), while unprotected sexual contact is the most common way to get genital herpes (HSV-2). Oral herpes symptoms may include discomfort, itchiness, or a burning sensation in or around the mouth. The virus can also be found in blood or herpes-infected areas. A blood sample or a swab is collected from the infected area for testing.
Trichomoniasis Test
Trichomoniasis, also known as “trich,” is a parasitic infection that causes men’s genital areas to itch, burn, and produce unusual discharge. Trich is a common sexually transmitted infection that is also very easy to treat. If you have symptoms or have had unprotected sex with a new partner, you should get tested. The test is usually performed using a urine sample or a urethral swab. Trichomoniasis can be less painful and less likely to spread to sexual partners if detected and treated promptly.
Prostate Cancer
One of the most common types of cancer in American men is prostate cancer. Prostate cancer can progress slowly or rapidly and aggressively, so early screening is critical, even before symptoms appear. A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test can detect this. If your family has a history with prostate cancer, tests can be performed at the age of 40. You should speak with your doctor about the test’s risks and benefits.
Physical Examination and Tests
Though they can feel embarrassing, physical exams are an important part of a sexual health screening. Consider whether you would be more comfortable having a physical exam performed by a man or a woman, and then choose your doctor accordingly. Your doctor will do everything possible to help you feel better.
If you are concerned about having a physical test, consult your doctor first. Your doctor can explain what will happen during the procedure. Physical exams or tests may include a genital examination; swabs from the penis, back of the throat, or recess; or blood and urine tests for STIs. Remember that you can decline any of these tests or have them performed at your next appointment.
When to See A Doctor
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Even though some sexual infections or diseases don’t show symptoms, you should look for any signs, no matter how minor. For example, you should inform your doctor if you notice any changes on or near your genitals. If you’ve had anal sex and experienced any changes in or around your anus and rectum, notify your doctor of them. If you have any of the following symptoms below, see a doctor or another health care professional right away:
- Changes in urine
- Strange discharge from the penis or anus
- Burning in the genital area
- Rashes, sores, and bumps
- Low back pain or pain in the pelvis
- Hurtful penetrative sex
What To Do If You Have an STI
If you have been diagnosed with an STI, you should seek treatment right away to avoid spreading it to your sexual partners or suffering long-term consequences. If you have an infection, you will be given different treatment options and additional assistance. When you get a sexual health screening early, you can easily treat and eliminate many STIs; however, some will require constant supervision and management to ensure successful recovery.
Most of the time, you will be told what type of treatment you require and asked to schedule an appointment with a sexual health service. Treatments generally involve antibiotics; you may need to pick up your prescription at a local pharmacy or visit a sexual health service in person. Anti-HIV drugs, also known as antiretrovirals, have made it easier to treat HIV. Even though the drugs are not a cure, they have significantly improved the health of HIV patients and reduced the risk of developing AIDS.
Follow-Up After a Sexual Health Screening
If you undergo a sexual health screening, you must return to your doctor for a follow-up appointment so you can get your results. If you have experienced symptoms of a sexual health condition, returning for a follow-up appointment allows your doctor to assess how you are doing. You can sometimes get the results over the phone, but if you have an STI, such as HIV, your doctor will require you to come in person.
If you have an infection, you should avoid having sex until it is treated or until you see your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on how to protect both your health and your partner’s health. People with STIs should avoid transferring them to their sexual partners at all costs.
Wrapping Up
To maintain good sexual health, you should have a regular sexual health screening. These tests could detect HIV, STDs, HPV, or something else. You can also discuss your concerns, ask questions, and get information and advice on sexual health and wellness during regular screenings.
Before scheduling an appointment for a sexual health screening, you can find out whether the tests you want are available at the center you want to visit and how much they cost. To maintain your sexual health and wellness, schedule regular sexual health screenings with a healthcare provider and practice safe sex.
Disclaimer: This article is intended simply to provide information. It does not replace the medical advice of a physician. Please speak with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
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