A Guide To Getting Checked For STDs
With sex slowly shedding its status as a taboo topic in Singapore and hook-up culture becoming more prevalent, it’s more important than ever to stay safe and responsible. If you are sexually active or have multiple partners, it is recommended to get tested for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) once a year. Read on for a comprehensive guide to the common types of infections in Singapore, where to test for an STD, how they are carried out and how much the tests cost.
Common STDs in Singapore
1. Chlamydia
What it is: According to 2018 statistics from the DSC (Department of STI Control) Clinic, chlamydia is currently the most common STI in Singapore. It is an infection caused by a bacteria, and can affect both men and women. While most impacted people are asymptomatic, it can cause health problems in the future.
Symptoms:
– Clear or pus-like discharge
– Burning sensation when urinating
– Bleeding between periods, pain in the lower abdomen
How long it takes to be treated: As it is a bacterial infection, it can be treated with a full course of antibiotics, which takes 1-2 weeks.
2. Gonorrhoea
What it is: Gonorrhoea is the second most common STD in Singapore and it is also a bacterial infection. Its symptoms can appear like yeast or bacterial infections in women. If left untreated, some women may also experience prolonged, heavy periods and pain during intercourse. The first symptoms usually take 2 to 14 days to appear.
Symptoms:
– Watery, creamy, or slightly green discharge
– Heavier periods or spotting
– Urge to urinate more frequently
– Fever
– Sharp pain in the lower abdomen
How long it takes to be treated: This bacterial infection can be treated with a full course of antibiotics, which takes 1-2 weeks.
3. Syphilis
What it is: Syphilis is a bacterial infection that has 4 stages: primary, secondary, latent and late. It is especially dangerous as people with syphilis have a significantly increased chance of contracting HIV. There are also many complications associated with syphilis like heart and nerve problems such as heart diseases and stroke. It takes about 10 to 90 days for the first symptoms to appear.
Symptoms:
– Primary stage syphilis may cause a single, small and painless sore to appear in and around the mouth or genital area
– A rash that appears rough and reddish-brown in colour may occur in the secondary stage
– In the secondary stage, individuals may also experience fever, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, headaches, weight loss, muscle aches, fatigue and occasionally patchy hair loss
How long it takes to be treated: It takes 1-2 weeks to cure and can be treated with a full course of antibiotics.
4. Genital herpes
What it is: Herpes is a viral infection that is usually mild but easily transmitted to others. You may contract the virus through skin-to-skin contact such as any sexual activity or exposure to the saliva of an infected person.
There are 2 strains of herpes simplex virus, also known as HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 causes cold sores to form in or around the mouth, as well as possibly on the genital area and may also affect the nervous system. HSV-2 might lead to genital herpes and even cause an infection in the mouth during oral intercourse.
Symptoms:
HSV-1:
– Cold sores, blisters
– Swollen, red gums
– White coating on tongue
– Fever
– Muscle aches
– Swollen neck glands
HSV-2:
– Itching or pain around the genital areas
– Pain during urination
– Painful and/or oozing sores
– Fever
– Muscle aches
How long it takes to be treated: The herpes simplex virus resides in the nerves and cannot be cured. However, there are treatment options available for any symptoms that may occur.
5. HIV
What it is: The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks white blood cells that protect your body, making you more susceptible to other diseases and infections. HIV is transmitted by blood, during unprotected sex, or through sharing needles and piercing instruments. It may also be passed on from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding.
HIV and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) are interlinked as HIV may develop into AIDS at a later stage. AIDS is fatal, with patients passing on 1 to 3 years after their diagnosis, from infections and other ailments.
Symptoms:
Early symptoms include common flu-like symptoms like:
– Fever
– Chills
– Sore throat
– Swollen lymph nodes
Other symptoms can include:
– Changes in skin condition, like getting a rash
– Recurrent oral or vaginal yeast infections
How long it takes to be treated: HIV is a lifelong condition. However, it can be managed with medical care and anti-retroviral therapy to delay the onset of AIDS.
6. HPV
What it is: Human Papillomavirus, better known as HPV, is a viral infection that can occur anywhere in the body. There are many strains of this virus split into “high-risk” and “low-risk” categories. Certain strains can cause cervical cancer in women, which is why there are Medisave-claimable vaccinations for the infection.
Symptoms: Most infections do not show symptoms. However, some may cause genital warts.
How long it takes to be treated: Most HPV infections clear on their own and no treatment is required for asymptomatic infections. The treatment for HPV-associated conditions like cervical cancer and genital warts differ.
How an STD test is done in Singapore
Swab test
For infections like gonorrhoea and chlamydia, doctors may order a swab test on possible infected areas like the mouth, vagina or rectum. The test takes roughly 30 seconds.
Urine test
If your doctor asks for a urine test, you’ll have to hold off going to the toilet 2 to 4 hours before going for your appointment.
Blood test
Herpes, HIV, hepatitis B & C and syphilis can be diagnosed through a blood test. Most clinics’ basic STD screening packages include tests for just these 5 infections that can be found in your blood.
Also read:
Following A HIV Screening Van Showed Me What Kampung Spirit In Singapore Looks Like Today
Clinics in Singapore to test for an STD
1. DSC Clinic
The Department of STI Control (DSC) is a specialist outpatient clinic under the Ministry of Health. While most clinics offer basic STD screening packages, DSC Clinic has single tests so you may pick only the infections you’re concerned about. Screening packages usually bundle infections like chlamydia and gonorrhoea together, but with DSC Clinic’s tests, you’ll be able to select testing for them separately.
The cost of each test ranges from $6.70 to $75.20. Do note that all new visitors will have to make an appointment for a consultation first. Hepatitis B and HPV vaccinations are also available at this clinic.
Address: 31 Kelantan Lane, #01-16, Singapore 200031
Contact: Call 1800 252 1324 for confidential counselling & queries
Booking: Call 6293 9648 or email apptdsc@nsc.com.sg
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2. SATA CommHealth Clinics
There are 6 SATA CommHealth clinics islandwide, which means you’ll likely find one near you no matter where you live. Its $214 STD Screening Package is comprehensive and tests for all common STDs, including Hepatitis B and C.
The package also comes with pre- and post-screening consultations to guide you through your screening process.
Address: Visit its website for a full list of locations
Contact: Call 6244 6688
Booking: Call 6244 6688 to make an appointment
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3. Kensington Family Clinic
Kensington Family Clinic has anonymous HIV testing, which means you don’t need identification or registration when making your appointment. There are also STD packages available such as the Essential Screening Package that costs $280 with blood and urine tests.
Address: 14D Kensington Park Road, Serangoon Gardens, Singapore 557265
Contact: Call 6288 4882 or email enquiries@kensingtonfamilyclinic.com
Booking: Message 92959585 to make an appointment
Website | Facebook
4. DB Medical
DB Medical is conveniently located at Paragon Medical Centre, in the heart of Orchard Road. This means you can easily pop by for a consultation or screening during your lunch break. Its STD Screening packages range from $240 to $499, with the essential package priced at $300.
Though most clinics only offer tests for Hepatitis B and C, DB Medical’s Essential STD Screen tests for Hepatitis A as well. Hepatitis A is a short-term infection and is usually not chronic, but if you’re already looking to get tested, you may choose this option for some peace of mind.
Address: 290 Orchard Road, #14-10, Paragon Medical Centre, Singapore 238859
Contact: Call 6733 7122 or email contact@dbclinic.com.sg / enquiries@dbclinic.sg
Booking: Call 6733 7122 or email contact@dbclinic.com.sg to make an appointment
Website
5. Dr Jeremy Chan Medical Clinic
Dr Jeremy Chan Medical Clinic is a GP in Toa Payoh that offers STD screening packages, so it is convenient for visits for those who live in the area. Its Essential STD Screen costs $280 and includes tests for HIV, Hepatitis B & C, herpes, syphilis, gonorrhoea and chlamydia.
Address: 123 Lorong 1 Toa Payoh, #01-493, Singapore 310123
Contact: Call 6250 4191 or email enquiry@drjeremychan.com
Booking: Call 6250 4191 or fill in the registration form on its website to make an appointment
Website
6. Dr Tan & Partners Clinic
Dr Tan & Partners Clinic has 10 locations across the country that offer STD testing, treatments and vaccinations for HPV at your convenience. The prices for STD Screening at this clinic range from $65 to $471. Its STD Pack 6 costs $365, and includes tests for HIV, Hepatitis A, B, C, herpes, syphilis, gonorrhoea and chlamydia
Address: Visit its website for a full list of locations
Contact: Call 6238 7810
Booking: Call 6238 7810 or fill in the registration form on its website to make an appointment
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7. Shim Clinic
Besides SATA CommHealth’s clinic at Bedok, those living in the east also have the option of dropping by Shim Clinic at Bedok South for testing. Its Basic 10A package, which costs $290 without consultation, covers a blood test as well as a swab test on either the mouth or genital areas.
Address: 168 Bedok South Avenue 3, #01-473, Singapore 460168
Contact: Call 6446 7446 or WhatsApp 8668 7446
Booking: Walk-ins only
Website | Facebook
8. Ferne Health
If you’re looking for discreet testing from the comfort of your own home, Ferne Health has home-based STI testing kits that will be delivered right to your doorstep. Choose between a customised screening kit or a Gonorrhoea & Chlamydia Kit For Men/Women. After you make your choice, you’ll have to complete an online medical assessment before your kit is shipped to your home.
If you pick a kit with only a swab test, it will be picked up from the same location in less than 24 hours. If your order requires a blood test, Ferne Health’s physician will drop by your house to do a blood sample collection on site, or you may also visit one of its partner clinics.
There are also other tests available at Ferne Health such as a Cervical Cancer HPV kit to test for high-risk strains of HPV.
Price: From $46 for a customised STD test
Contact: Fill in the contact form or email contact@fernehealth.com
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Where & How To Test For An STD In Singapore
Most STDs are curable or treatable if detected early, which is why regular testing is important. Hopefully, this guide to getting checked for STDs will help you in identifying symptoms or choosing which clinic to visit.
Also read:
5 Health Screenings Women In SG Should Get In Their 20s For Early Detection & Peace Of Mind
