What are STDs?
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), or sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are infections transmitted between sexual partners and through skin-to-skin contact. Some STDs can be transmitted from a pregnant person to the baby during pregnancy or birth. STDs may also be spread during breastfeeding, through blood transfusions, or by sharing needles. Many STDs cause mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. Unfortunately, having an STD can also increase the risk of getting HIV. STD screening is vital to ensure early detection and prompt treatment to prevent the spread of infection.
The STD #2 Essential Blood and Urine Test Panel includes:
Chlamydia - caused by bacteria called Chlamydia trachomatis- is the most commonly sexually transmitted disease (STD) in the US. However, because it often doesn't cause symptoms, many people may not know they have it. Although antibiotics can cure it, if left untreated, chlamydia can cause serious health problems.
Gonorrhea - is an STD that can cause infection in the genitals, rectum, and throat. It is widespread, especially among young people ages 15-24. It is an easily treated STD, but left untreated can cause severe reproductive and health problems.
RPR, Qualitative - tests for the bacterium that causes syphilis, Treponema pallidum. Syphilis is an infectious disease most often spread by sexual contact, including direct contact with a syphilis sore (chancre). Syphilis is easily treated but left untreated can cause severe health problems. Infected mothers can also pass the disease to the fetus, with severe and potentially fatal consequences for the baby.
Hepatitis A Antibody IgM - indicates a recent infection with the hepatitis A virus. IgM anti-HAV antibodies can generally be detected in the blood as early as two weeks after the initial HAV infection. The antibodies will disappear from the blood 3 to 12 months after the infection. IgG anti-HAV antibodies indicate an individual has had hepatitis A viral infection. About 8 to 12 weeks after the initial infection with the hepatitis A virus, IgG anti-HAV antibodies will appear and remain in the blood for lifelong protection (immunity) against HAV.
Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) - is a protein produced by the hepatitis B virus. It is the earliest indicator of acute hepatitis B and often identifies infected people before symptoms appear. During the recovery period, HBsAg disappears from the blood. In certain people (particularly those infected as children or those with a weak immune system, such as those with AIDS), chronic infection with HBV may occur, and HBsAg remains positive.
HIV Antigen/Antibodies - stands for human immunodeficiency virus. HIV damages the immune system by destroying white blood cells (WBCs) that help the body combat infection. Unfortunately, this puts individuals at risk for other infections and diseases.
Hepatitis C Antibody - is caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). Hepatitis C can range from acute to chronic. Acute hepatitis C is a short-term infection lasting up to 6 months. Sometimes the body can combat the infection, and the virus goes away. However, for most people, acute infection leads to chronic infection. Chronic hepatitis C is a long-lasting infection. Left untreated, it can last a lifetime and cause severe health problems, such as liver damage, cirrhosis, liver cancer, and even death.
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) 1 and 2, IgG - most widely known as herpes, there are two types: HSV type 1 (oral herpes) and HSV type 2 (genital herpes). Cold sores around the mouth or face characterize oral herpes. While genital herpes targets the genitals, buttocks, or anal regions. In addition, other herpes infections can affect the eyes, skin, or other body parts. The virus can be dangerous in newborns or people with compromised immune systems.
When should I order an STD #2 Essential Blood and Urine Panel?
Individuals may order this panel if they have experienced symptoms related to an STD or if an infection is suspected. However, STDs don't always cause symptoms or may only cause mild symptoms. So it is possible to have an infection and not know it. And even without symptoms, STDs can still be harmful and may be passed on during sex. If there are symptoms, they may include:
- Unusual discharge or odor from the genitals
- Sores or warts on the genitals
- Painful or frequent urination
- Itching and redness on the genitals
- Blisters or sores in or around the mouth
- Anal itching, soreness, or bleeding
- Abdominal pain
- Fever
Shop additional STD tests.
