University of Wyoming

STUDENT HEALTH SERVICE

CAN I BE TESTED FOR “EVERYTHING”?

This is a commonly asked question by college students who are concerned about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and their health. Unfortunately the answer to this question is “no”. There is not a test to detect all STIs in a person without symptoms (asymptomatic) and unfortunately, many STIs may have no symptoms, but can still be passed on to a sexual partner. STIs can occur from any intimate genital contact. So, the best weapon is knowledge. Get educated about what tests are available, and how best to keep yourself safe and healthy.

The most common bacterial STI in the United States is Chlamydia. This infection is most common in young women aged 15-24. This group represents 79% of infections and 75% of cases are asymptomatic. For this reason, the Centers for Disease Control recommends at least annual Chlamydia testing for women in this age group. Untreated, Chlamydia can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, and ectopic (“tubal”) pregnancy. Men can also have a Chlamydia infection without symptoms.

Gonorrhea is less common than Chlamydia, but not uncommon in the 15-24 year old age group. This infection is also often asymptomatic in women and men, and untreated can also cause PID and infertility.

Syphilis is not very common, but untreated, can go on to cause a chronic infection and illness with devastating results.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common viral STI in the United States. There are many different strains of the HPV virus. Some strains can cause genital warts in men and women and some don’t. Some strains can cause changes to the cells of the cervix causing them to become abnormal and in some cases precancerous. HPV is often asymptomatic. It is difficult to determine how many people are infected, but studies suggest HPV may be present in more than 50% of people.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is another example of a viral STI. Persons infected with the HIV virus may be asymptomatic for many years after contracting the virus. These asymptomatic persons will appear perfectly healthy, but can still pass on the HIV virus.

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is a viral STI that is also often asymptomatic. 50% of new cases of herpes have no symptoms, so the infected person does not know they have HSV, but can still pass it on to a sexual partner. Studies show that 25% of people in the U.S. are infected with HSV.

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that can also be transmitted sexually. It is transmitted through blood and body fluid exposure, so persons at high risk for those exposures (e.g. health care workers, firefighters, etc.) are encouraged to get vaccinated against Hepatitis B. Hepatitis B is the only STI for which there is a vaccine at present.

There are over 25 different infections that can be transmitted through sexual contact including molluscum contagiosum, pubic lice or “crabs”, trichomonas, and scabies. These problems usually cause symptoms and if properly diagnosed, can be effectively treated.

SO, WHICH OF THESE THINGS CAN I BE TESTED FOR?

Women can be tested for Chlamydia and gonorrhea during an annual exam with Pap smear, or anytime they have a concern. In women, the test is performed by swabbing the center of the cervix (cervical os). Both Chlamydia and gonorrhea can be detected by this test if needed. In men, a swab of the urethra can be done, or a urine sample can be used to detect both Chlamydia and gonorrhea.

Syphilis, HIV, Hepatitis B, and HSV testing can be done with blood samples. HIV testing can now be done using a saliva sample as well. The syphilis test is called a VDRL or RPR test. HIV testing can be done confidentially or anonymously. The HSV test is a test that can tell if you have antibodies to HSV even if you have had no symptoms.

The best “test” for HPV in women is an annual examination with Pap smear. Even if a woman is asymptomatic, her Pap test may show evidence of HPV infection. Sometimes, evidence of HPV can be seen during an exam as well. Unfortunately, no blood test is available yet to look for evidence of HPV in either men or women without symptoms. If a man or woman has had past partners with HPV or has had past partners with abnormal Pap smears, he or she may have been exposed to HPV, and could have an asymptomatic HPV infection. There is no test for HPV in men.

SO, HOW CAN I STAY SAFE AND HEALTHY?

Be smart. Abstinence from sexual contact is the best protection. If you decide to engage in sexual activity, limiting your number of sexual partners limits your chances of being exposed to these STIs. Know your partner and talk with him or her about past infections and past partners. Always use condoms. Avoid situations that may lead to unwanted sexual encounters such as intoxication with drugs or alcohol. Use a “buddy system” when you go out to make sure you or a friend does not end up in a potentially risky situation. Women should make sure they have an exam once a year and regular pap smears. More frequent testing is recommended for men and women who have multiple sexual partners or engage in risky sexual behavior. If you are planning an occupation that places you at risk for blood or body fluid exposure, or want to protect against getting Hepatitis B sexually, get vaccinated against Hepatitis B. If you have questions or concerns, make an appointment at the Student Health Service to discuss them with a clinician. The SHS phone number is 766-2130.

For more information on sexually transmitted diseases, visit the following websites:

STUDENT HEALTH SERVICE

CAN I BE TESTED FOR “EVERYTHING”?

SO, WHICH OF THESE THINGS CAN I BE TESTED FOR?

SO, HOW CAN I STAY SAFE AND HEALTHY?

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