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Sexually Transmitted Infections (STD) Guide: Symptoms, Testing & Treatment in Singapore

Talking about sexual health can feel overwhelming, but being informed is the first step to taking charge of your well-being. An open and honest discussion about Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) is crucial for your health and your partners’.

In Singapore, understanding the symptoms, testing options, and available treatments empowers you to make responsible decisions.

This information will guide you through the essentials of STD symptoms, testing procedures, and effective treatments, giving you the confidence to manage your sexual health.

What are the Most Common STDs?

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), often called STDs, are infections spread from one person to another through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex.

These infections come in various types, caused by different bacteria, viruses, or parasites. In Singapore, some of the most common ones we encounter are:

Chlamydia

This is a bacterial infection that can often be quite sneaky, as it might not show any symptoms at all! It can affect both men and women, potentially leading to serious health issues like infertility if left untreated.

Gonorrhea

Another very common bacterial infection, similar to Chlamydia in that it can also be asymptomatic in many cases. It can affect the genitals, rectum, and throat.

Syphilis

This bacterial infection is a bit different because it progresses in distinct stages if it’s not treated. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent more severe health complications down the line.

Herpes

Caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), this viral infection is known for causing sores or blisters around the genitals or mouth. Genital herpes is important to remember that while symptoms can be managed, the virus stays in the body.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

A very widespread virus, HPV can cause conditions like genital warts. More significantly, certain types of HPV are also linked to various cancers, including cervical cancer, which makes vaccination and regular screening vital.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)​

This serious virus gradually attacks the body’s immune system, making it harder to fight off infections. Early diagnosis and consistent treatment can help individuals with HIV live long, healthy lives.

Hepatitis A, B, and C

These are viral infections that specifically target the liver. While Hepatitis A is often spread through contaminated food or water, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C can be transmitted sexually, among other ways.

Trichomoniasis

This is a common and treatable infection caused by a tiny parasite. Like many STIs, it can often go unnoticed, as many people don’t experience any symptoms.

Other Uncommon STDs

STDs are a significant public health concern. Understanding how they spread, their symptoms, and treatments is essential for raising awareness, preventing new cases, and ensuring timely care.

Crabs (Pubic Lice)

Crabs, or pubic lice, are tiny insects that infest pubic hair and sometimes other coarse body hair. They spread through close physical or sexual contact. Symptoms include intense itching and visible lice or eggs. Crabs can be treated with over-the-counter or prescription creams, lotions, or shampoos.

Mgen (Mycoplasma Genitalium)

Mgen is a bacterial STI that often shows no symptoms, though some may experience painful urination or discharge. If untreated, it can lead to complications like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women. Diagnosis requires specific tests, and it is treated with antibiotics.

Molluscum Contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection causing small, firm bumps with a central dimple. It spreads through skin contact or contaminated items. While it usually clears on its own, topical treatments or minor procedures can speed up recovery.

NGU (Nongonococcal Urethritis)

NGU is urethral inflammation not caused by gonorrhea, often due to bacteria like chlamydia or Mgen. Symptoms include painful urination, discharge, or itching. It is treated with antibiotics after identifying the cause through tests.

Scabies

Scabies is a highly contagious skin condition caused by mites burrowing into the skin. Symptoms include severe itching, especially at night, and a pimple-like rash. It spreads through close contact and is treated with prescription creams or lotions.

Jock Itch

Jock itch, or tinea cruris, is a fungal infection in the groin area causing a red, itchy, ring-shaped rash. It thrives in warm, moist environments and can spread through contact or shared clothing. Over-the-counter antifungal treatments and keeping the area clean and dry are effective remedies.

Vulva or Vaginal Itch

Vulva or vaginal itching can stem from infections like yeast or bacterial vaginosis, allergic reactions, or irritations. Diagnosis is key to identifying the cause, and treatments include antifungal or antibacterial medications, creams, or lifestyle adjustments.

STIs are a global and local health concern, with consistent yearly cases of infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea in Singapore. These figures highlight the importance of regular testing as a responsible step for anyone sexually active.

Symptoms

Recognizing the Symptoms of STDs

One of the trickiest things about STDs is that they don’t always show clear signs. In fact, many STDs can be completely asymptomatic, meaning you could have an infection without ever knowing it. This is why regular testing is so important.

However, when symptoms do appear, they might include:

  • Unusual discharge from the penis or vagina
  • Pain or a burning sensation during urination
  • Sores, blisters, or rashes on or around the genitals, anus, or mouth
  • Itching or irritation in the genital area
  • Pain during sexual intercourse
  • Lower abdominal pain
  • Flu-like symptoms, such as fever, body aches, and swollen glands

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to see a doctor as soon as possible. But remember, the absence of symptoms doesn’t mean you are necessarily in the clear. The only way to know your status for certain is to get tested.

STD Test

Why Is STD Test in Singapore Is So Important?

Taking charge of your sexual health is vital for your overall well-being. Getting an STD test in Singapore, even if it feels a little awkward, is a responsible and empowering step.

Regular testing effectively manages your sexual health. Early detection allows for prompt treatment, often curing STDs or managing viral ones.

And prevents serious long-term complications like infertility or certain cancers. Testing also protects your partners; knowing your status helps prevent infection spread, demonstrating respect and responsibility for yourself and those you care for.

Is Self STD Testing Reliable?

Self-STD testing can be a reliable and convenient option, especially if you value privacy or have a busy schedule. These test kits are designed to be user-friendly and provide accurate results when you follow the instructions carefully.

While self-testing is an empowering first step, I always recommend consulting a doctor to confirm your results and discuss the next steps. It’s reassuring to know these accessible tools can make managing your sexual health less intimidating.

So, who should get tested? Anyone who is sexually active, particularly if you have new or multiple partners. If you’re in a long-term relationship, getting tested at the beginning can also provide valuable peace of mind.

I understand there can be a stigma around STD testing, but I encourage you to view it as a routine part of your healthcare—just like a dental check-up.

We Offer

Types of STD Tests We Offer

At Mediway Medical, we aim to make testing simple, discreet, and comfortable. Based on your sexual history and any symptoms, different tests may be recommended. Common methods include:

  • Blood Tests: A small blood sample is used to check for infections like HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis.
  • Urine Tests: A urine sample is used to screen for bacterial infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea.
  • Swabs: A cotton swab collects a sample from the genitals, throat, or rectum to test for chlamydia, gonorrhea, or herpes.

All testing is confidential and accurate. Our team is here to guide you and answer any questions throughout the process.

Treatment

STD Treatment & What You Need to Know

If you’ve received an STD diagnosis, please know that effective treatments are available, and catching it early is key for the best outcome.

Chlamydia

  • Symptoms: Often, there are no noticeable signs, making it a “silent infection.” If symptoms do appear, they might include unusual discharge, painful urination, or lower abdominal discomfort. Women might experience pelvic pain, and men may have testicular pain.
  • Incubation Period: Symptoms usually develop 1 to 3 weeks after exposure, but can remain unnoticed for months or even years while still being contagious.
  • Treatment: Chlamydia is treated with antibiotics. It’s crucial to complete the full course of medication, even if you feel better, to fully clear the infection. Partners also need treatment to prevent re-infection.
  • Retesting: We recommend retesting about three months after treatment to confirm the infection is gone and avoid re-infection.

Gonorrhea

  • Symptoms: Gonorrhea often shows no obvious signs, especially in women. When symptoms occur, they may include unusual discharge, burning during urination, and pelvic or testicular discomfort.
  • Incubation Period: Symptoms typically appear 2–14 days after exposure, but the infection can still spread even without symptoms.
  • Treatment: Gonorrhea is treated with antibiotics, sometimes a combination due to rising resistance. Completing the full prescription is vital for recovery.
  • Retesting: Retest three months after treatment to ensure the infection is cleared and to check for re-infection.

Syphilis

  • Symptoms: Often begins with a painless sore (chancre), followed by rashes, fever, swollen glands, and hair loss.
  • Incubation Period: Typically 3 weeks, but can range from 10 to 90 days.
  • Treatment: Easily treated with antibiotics, especially in early stages.
  • Retesting: Follow-up tests are essential to confirm the infection is completely gone.

Genital Herpes

  • Symptoms: Includes painful blisters, sores, flu-like symptoms, and swollen glands.
  • Incubation Period: Usually 2 to 12 days.
  • Treatment: Antiviral medication can manage outbreaks, but there is no cure for the virus itself.
  • Retesting: Not typically required unless symptoms persist.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

  • Symptoms: Warts (genital, common, plantar, flat) may appear weeks or months after infection. Many types are asymptomatic.
  • Incubation Period: Typically 1 month to several years.
  • Treatment: Warts can be removed, but there’s no cure for the virus. Vaccines can prevent certain types of HPV.
  • Retesting: Not routine. Regular screenings (like Pap tests for women) are important.

HIV / AIDS

  • Symptoms: Initial flu-like symptoms (fever, sore throat, fatigue) may appear within 2-4 weeks. Many people have no symptoms for years. AIDS is the late stage, with severe immune system damage.
  • Incubation Period: Can be asymptomatic for 10 years or more.
  • Treatment: Antiretroviral therapy (ART) can manage the virus effectively, but there is no cure.
  • Retesting: Regular monitoring is essential to manage the condition.

Trichomoniasis

  • Symptoms: Most people have no symptoms. When they occur, they include itching, burning, or discharge from the penis or vagina.
  • Incubation Period: 5 to 28 days.
  • Treatment: Curable with antibiotics.
  • Retesting: Recommended about 3 months after treatment to check for re-infection.

Hepatitis A

  • Symptoms: Fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, jaundice, dark urine, pale stool, fever, joint pain.
  • Incubation: 15–50 days (avg. 28 days).
  • Treatment: No specific cure; rest, hydration, balanced diet, avoid alcohol.
  • Retesting: Rarely needed; recovery grants lifelong immunity.

Hepatitis B

  • Symptoms: Often asymptomatic. Can include fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, dark urine, and jaundice (yellowing skin/eyes). Can lead to chronic liver disease.
  • Incubation Period: Average of 90 days (range: 60-150 days).
  • Treatment: Acute infection often resolves on its own. Chronic infection can be managed with antiviral medications. A vaccine is available for prevention.
  • Retesting: Regular monitoring is needed for chronic infections.

Hepatitis C

  • Symptoms: Most people with acute or chronic Hepatitis C are asymptomatic. If symptoms do occur, they can include fatigue, nausea, and jaundice.
  • Incubation Period: 2 weeks to 6 months.
  • Treatment: Curable with antiviral medications.
  • Retesting: A follow-up test is done after treatment to confirm the virus is gone.

Mycoplasma Genitalium

  • Symptoms: Often asymptomatic, but can cause urethritis in men and cervicitis in women. Symptoms might include discharge and painful urination.
  • Incubation Period: Can range from a few weeks to months, making it difficult to pinpoint exposure.
  • Treatment: Treated with antibiotics, though resistance is an increasing concern.
  • Retesting: Recommended after treatment to ensure the infection is cleared, especially due to growing antibiotic resistance.

Molluscum Contagiosum

  • Symptoms: Characterised by small, raised, pearl-like bumps on the skin. They are usually painless but can become itchy or irritated.
  • Incubation Period: Typically 2 to 7 weeks after exposure.
  • Treatment: Often resolves on its own within 6-12 months. Medical treatments include cryotherapy (freezing), topical creams, or minor surgical removal.
  • Retesting: Not usually necessary once the bumps have completely disappeared.

Pubic Lice (Crabs)

  • Symptoms: Intense itching in the genital area is the most common symptom. You might also see tiny lice or their eggs (nits) in pubic hair.
  • Incubation Period: Symptoms usually begin about 5 days after infestation.
  • Treatment: Over-the-counter lotions and shampoos specifically designed to kill lice are effective. It’s also important to wash clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water.
  • Retesting: Not required if treatment is successful and symptoms resolve.

Scabies

  • Symptoms: Severe itching that is often worse at night, along with a pimple-like rash or tiny burrows in the skin.
  • Incubation Period: If you’ve never had scabies before, it can take 4 to 8 weeks for symptoms to appear.
  • Treatment: Prescription creams or lotions are applied to the entire body to kill the mites and their eggs.
  • Retesting: A follow-up visit may be needed if itching persists weeks after treatment to ensure the mites are gone.

Genital Warts

  • Symptoms: Small, flesh-coloured or grey swellings in the genital area. They can be single or in clusters, resembling a cauliflower shape.
  • Incubation Period: Can range from a few weeks to several months after sexual contact with an infected person.
  • Treatment: While there’s no cure for the HPV virus that causes them, the warts themselves can be treated with topical creams, cryotherapy, or surgical removal.
  • Retesting: Regular check-ups are recommended as warts can reappear, especially if your immune system is weakened.
Future

A Healthier Future Starts with Prevention

While testing and treatment are vital, prevention is always the best approach. You can significantly reduce your risk of contracting an STD by practicing safe sex. This includes:

Using condoms

  • consistently and correctly every time you engage in sexual activity is a simple yet highly effective way to prevent the transmission of many STDs. Remember to use them from start to finish!

Getting vaccinated

  • for preventable STDs like HPV and Hepatitis B. These vaccines offer strong protection against certain infections and are a crucial step in proactive health management.

Having open and honest conversations

  • with your partners about your sexual health history. This builds trust and ensures both of you are aware of any potential risks, allowing for informed decisions.

Getting tested regularly

  • to know your status, even if you don’t have symptoms. Many STDs don’t show obvious signs, so regular testing is the best way to catch them early and seek treatment.

Education and awareness are key to empowering yourself and your community to make safer choices.

Contraception

Emergency Contraception in Singapore: What You Need to Know

Emergency contraception (EC) offers a safe and effective way to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. In Singapore, emergency contraception pills, often called the “morning-after pill,” are readily available at most pharmacies and clinics without a prescription.

EC works by delaying ovulation or preventing fertilisation, and is most effective when taken as soon as possible, ideally within 72 hours of unprotected sex. Remember, EC is not intended for regular use and does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

We encourage you to consult a healthcare professional for guidance and to discuss long-term contraceptive methods for lasting protection and peace of mind.

Support

Let Mediway Medical Support You

Taking charge of your sexual health is a vital act of self-care for your overall well-being and peace of mind. At Mediway Medical, we’re here to provide professional, compassionate support every step of the way, ensuring you feel comfortable and understood.

Our services are designed with your needs in mind, offering:

  • Discreet testing: Your privacy and comfort are our top priority. We create a safe, non-judgmental environment for your testing.
  • Minimal waiting times: We value your time. Our efficient service means you get the care you need without unnecessary delays, fitting seamlessly into your busy Singapore schedule.
  • Fast results for peace of mind: We aim for quick results, so you get clear answers and appropriate care promptly, allowing you to move forward with certainty.

Don’t let fear or uncertainty about sexual health stop you from looking after yourself. Reaching out is a sign of strength, and we’re here to guide you with understanding and expertise.

Health

Take the Next Step for Your Health

Your well-being is a journey, and every step you take toward being informed and proactive matters. Remember that knowing your STD status is an act of care for yourself and your partners.

If you have any questions or are ready to get tested, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Mediway Medical. We’re here to help you navigate your health with confidence and support.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common STDs, and how are they transmitted?

Some of the most common STDs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, HPV, herpes, and HIV. They are primarily transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex.

It is generally recommended that all sexually active individuals get tested at least once a year. You might consider more frequent testing if you have multiple partners, a new partner, or engage in higher-risk sexual behaviors.

Many STDs, especially those caused by bacteria like chlamydia and gonorrhea, can be cured with antibiotics. Viral STDs like herpes and HIV cannot be cured but can be effectively managed with antiviral medication.

An STD test typically involves providing a urine sample, a blood sample, or a swab from the affected area. The process is quick, and our staff at Mediway Medical ensure it is as comfortable and confidential as possible.

Yes, many STDs are asymptomatic, meaning they show no symptoms at all. This is why regular testing is essential for anyone who is sexually active, as it’s the only way to be certain of your status.

Location

Directions

Opp Clarke Quay Station (B04239)
Bus No: 2, 12, 33, 54, 147, 190, 12E, TS3, 147A
Clarke Quay Station Exit E (B04222)

Bus No: NS1, NS2, 2, 2A, 12, 12E, 33, 51, 54, 61, 63, 80, 124, 145, 147, 166, 174, 174E, 190, 197, 851, 851E, 961, 961M

Opp High Street Centre (B04251)
Bus No: 32, 195, 195A
Boat Quay (B05029)

Bus No: NS1, NS2, 51, 61, 63, 63A, 80, 124, 145, 166, 174, 174E, 197, 851, 851E, 961, 961M

The Riverwalk Carpark

Mon-Fri Before 5/6pm: $2.00 for 1st hr, $1.00 for next subsequent 30min from 7am to 5pm

Mon-Fri after 5/6pm: $3.21/entry from 5pm to 7am the following day

Sat: $2.00 for 1st hr, $1.00 for next subsequent 30min from 7am to 5pm, $3.21/entry from 5pm to 7am the following day

Sun/PH: $3.21/entry from 7am to 7am the following day

Clarke Quay Station (NE5)
Exit E