Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), often called STDs, are common infections passed through sexual contact. These infections can range from mild or asymptomatic to causing serious health complications if left undiagnosed and untreated. Regular STD testing is important for maintaining personal health and preventing further transmission. Understanding the testing process and interpreting results helps individuals make informed decisions about their health.
Receiving Your Results
Individuals most often receive STD test results through secure online patient portals. Healthcare providers also commonly communicate results via phone calls, allowing for immediate discussion. In some cases, results may be mailed, though this method is becoming less common due to potential delays and privacy concerns.
The turnaround time for results varies depending on the specific STD and the laboratory. Rapid tests for HIV or certain bacterial STDs might provide initial results within minutes or a few hours. Most standard laboratory tests, such as blood or urine samples for chlamydia or gonorrhea, yield results within one to three days. More complex tests, like some swab tests for herpes or HPV, might take up to two weeks.
Understanding Key Terminology
When reviewing an STD test report, several terms indicate the presence or absence of an infection. A “positive” or “reactive” result signifies that the infection was detected. This means the test found evidence of the germ, substance, or antibodies it was looking for.
Conversely, “negative” or “non-reactive” indicates the infection was not detected. This means the test did not find specific markers for the infection. However, a “not detected” result does not always rule out a very recent infection, as some STDs have a “window period” before they become detectable.
An “inconclusive” or “indeterminate” result means the test could not definitively determine a positive or negative outcome. This can occur due to various reasons, such as an early-stage infection, technical issues with the sample, or factors related to the body’s immune response. In such cases, retesting is recommended to obtain a clear diagnosis.
Variations in Test Result Presentation
The presentation of STD test results can differ based on the type of infection and testing methodology. For bacterial STDs like chlamydia and gonorrhea, often detected via urine samples or swabs, results commonly appear as “detected” or “not detected.” These tests, nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs), identify the genetic material of the bacteria.
For viral STDs such as HIV or syphilis, which involve blood tests, results might include numerical values or specific antibody readings. HIV tests look for both antibodies and antigens, with a “reactive” initial result prompting further confirmatory tests. Syphilis tests may show titers, which are numerical values indicating the concentration of antibodies, and these titers can decrease after successful treatment.
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) testing, particularly antibody tests, may also present with numerical values, with a reference range indicating a positive result. For instance, a value above a certain threshold, such as 0.90, might indicate a positive result for HSV-2 antibodies. These numerical values help interpret the level of immune response, rather than just a simple positive or negative.
Actions Following Your Results
If your STD test results come back negative, no infection was detected. Even with a negative result, continue practicing safer sex methods, such as consistent condom use, to prevent future infections. Retesting may be advisable if you suspect recent exposure or continue to experience symptoms, as some infections may not be detectable immediately after exposure due to a “window period.”
For a positive STD test result, the next step involves consulting with a healthcare provider to confirm the diagnosis and discuss treatment options. Many bacterial STDs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, are curable with antibiotics, often a single dose for some infections. Viral STDs like herpes and HIV are manageable with antiviral medications, which can help control symptoms and reduce the risk of transmission.
Partner notification is an important action after a positive diagnosis, ensuring that current and recent sexual partners are aware and can seek testing and treatment. This step helps prevent further spread of the infection and can reduce the risk of reinfection for the treated individual. Follow-up testing is recommended for certain infections, such as chlamydia, to confirm treatment success and rule out reinfection.