Taking Care of Your Health: When to Get Tested for Infections?

Taking care of your health is not only about regular doctor visits but also timely testing for infections. But when exactly should you get tested for infections, and is it necessary to do so at every gynecologist appointment? Let's explore when infection screenings are truly needed and when they can be skipped.

Routine Visit to the Gynecologist

If your visit to the gynecologist is routine, and you do not have an active sex life, do not change partners, and do not have symptoms of any diseases, then testing for infections is not required. In this case, it is enough to undergo annual routine tests, such as a cervical smear to ensure that your cervix is healthy and free from inflammatory processes.

When Should You Get Tested for Infections?

However, the situation changes if:

• You begin changing sexual partners;
• You are unsure of your partner’s infection status;
• You suspect that you may be at risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections.

In such cases, testing for sexually transmitted infections becomes mandatory.

Which Tests Should Be Done?

Depending on the situation, your gynecologist may recommend different tests. These may include not only tests for sexually transmitted infections, such as:

• Chlamydia,
• Gonorrhea,
• Trichomonas,
• Mycoplasma genitalium.

Additionally, it is recommended to get tested for HIV, hepatitis B and C, and syphilis.

Why Should You Get Tested for Infections?

Timely diagnosis of sexually transmitted infections allows for preventing the development of diseases that can negatively affect your health. These infections can also lead to infertility, inflammation, and other serious problems, so early detection is particularly important.

How Often Should You Get Tested?

• If you do not change sexual partners and are confident in their status, annual screenings are sufficient.
• If there is a risk of infection or symptoms of a disease, testing should be done more frequently.

Conclusion

Taking care of your health requires attention to detail, including regular tests for sexually transmitted infections. Be sure to consult with your gynecologist to find out which screenings are necessary for you based on your situation. Timely diagnosis is the key to your health and safety.

Remember that prevention and early detection of infections play a crucial role in maintaining your health!