3 minutes read3 minutes readRegularly testing for STDs is part of being responsible as a sexually active individual. But what happens when you discover you may have an STD while on your period?
Imagine this: It’s a Saturday morning, and your period has just started. You’ve decided on spending a cosy day indoors on the heating pad, munching on a snack, and watching your favourite programme. Next thing you know, you’ve received a text from a previous sexual partner saying they have tested positive for an STD.
Now, instead of focusing on resting and relaxing, your head is spinning with a whole new set of problems. Could you be positive for an STD, too? Where can you go to be tested on a Saturday? And can you even test for STDs on your period?
Breathe. You can absolutely get tested for STDs during your time of the month and at Better2Know, you can also get tested on a Saturday. Here’s what you should know about testing and the impact of STDs on your menstrual cycle.
Which STDs can I be tested for during my period?
All of them! No matter what you are worried you may have contracted, there are a wide range of STDs that can be tested for – even on your period. Whether it’s a heavy flow or light flow day, your period blood isn’t going to change the outcome of an STD test. You can get tested any time during your cycle for conditions including:
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhoea
- Gardnerella Vaginalis
- HIV
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis C
- Herpes
- Mycoplasma
- Syphilis
- Ureaplasma
- Trichomonas
The only one it is difficult to test for is HPV as it may not be possible to get a good sample. If you bleed every day then cervical screening tests are still possible. Your doctor will want to collect your sample on a light flow day.
How does STD testing work while I’m on my period?
STD tests are quick, easy, and painless. Most of the time, a urine sample is all that is needed. In other cases, you might be told that a blood draw is necessary. Both of these methods are perfectly safe during your period, and results won’t be skewed by your cycle.
What about STD Swab tests?
Sometimes a vaginal swab is needed for testing Chlamydia or Gonorrhoea. A skilled technician or doctor will be able to do a swab during your period. There is, however, a slight risk that a swab test could give an inaccurate result due to a high concentration of blood vs. cervical mucus. If you’re worried about having an STD, though, you shouldn’t let your period delay your testing. It’s better to know sooner than later if you are positive because conditions left untreated for too long can lead to complications.
Does having an STD impact my period?
If you have contracted an STD, you might even notice that your period and body are behaving a bit differently than usual. STDs can cause more severe cramping and headaches, pelvic inflammatory disease, or bleeding between periods/spotting. Even if you don’t notice anything unusual, you need to be tested immediately. Left untreated long-term, STDS can lead to:
- Increased risk of ectopic pregnancy
- Increased risk of infertility
- Chronic pain
The sooner a condition is detected, the sooner you can begin treating it with antibiotics.
Can I get an STD while on my period?
Yes! Remember that you are vulnerable to catching an STD, even if you are on your period. Always use protection – no matter where you’re at in your cycle.
Are you concerned that you may have contracted an STD? Find your local STD clinic today, and we will get you tested, period or no period!
