STI tests

[Morrisonker]

How are various STI's tested for? I know aids/hiv is a blood test and clamydia (sp?) is a urine sample, is everything else a pelvic exam thing, like a smear test? And how often should you go and be tested, on average if you're single and having casual sex, even if you use protection? Once a year, more often, less? I'm curious and it's something my friends and I can't agree on.

[tigga]

They take a couple of swabs, for men its a bit like an ear cleaning bud which they poke down the inside (ouch), probably similar for women although probably not as painful i imagine.

[tigga]

oops i pressed submit too early - personally i go for screening between each partner that i have unprotected sex with.

[asteroid99]

I went to be tested recently, they took about 2 from where you urinate from and then 4 I think internal (with a speculum, like when you have a smear). They told me the results then and there for everything except clamydia, where results can take a week to 10 days.

I agree with tigga that you should get tested between each partner you have unprotected sex with.

[oligopoly]

I went for a full STI check about 3 weeks ago. I had a blood sample taken, then the doc asked questions about my sexual history, then he examined me and then he asked for a urine sample. He said the whole cotton-bud extravaganza was not necessary. All in all a painless but important activity.