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What Can I Expect from a Gonorrhea Test?

Written by Megan on October 4, 2012 — Leave a Comment

Q: My partner just told me that he was diagnosed with gonorrhea. I need to be screened as soon as possible. Can you tell me what to expect with a gonorrhea test? I’m a little bit frightened and I’ve never been screened for STDs before now.

M. Neils

Phoenix, Arizona

A: Since your partner has gonorrhea, it is definitely a good idea for you to seek testing. Gonorrhea is extremely common and easy to contract – fortunately it is also easy to treat. The testing process is actually pretty simple.

The first step is to contact us and arrange an appointment for testing. You will be directed to one of our discreet laboratories for testing. There will be no questionnaires or other probing paperwork to fill out. We respect your privacy and work hard to protect it. You will not have to worry about any invasive procedures. Our gonorrhea testing is completed with a urine sample and you will have your results within 1-3 business days.

Posted in Gonorrhea | Tagged Gonorrhea Test

What are the Symptoms of Chlamydia?

Written by Megan on October 2, 2012 — Leave a Comment

Q: My girlfriend was recently diagnosed with chlamydia. I have not been tested yet, and I have not exhibited any noticeable symptoms. Should I be tested? What exactly are the symptoms of chlamydia?

T. Russell

Atlanta, GA

A: Yes, you absolutely should be tested as soon as possible. If your girlfriend tested positive for chlamydia, there is a good chance that you have it also. Plus, if you do have this STD and do not seek treatment, you could re-infect your girlfriend. Your best option is to seek testing immediately – this is a treatable STD, so you have nothing to fear.

As far as not having any noticeable symptoms, this is actually quite common. About 50% of men and 75% of women never experience any symptoms. Symptoms can sometimes take as long as three weeks to be noticeable. The most common symptoms of chlamydia include itching or burning (especially during urination) and abnormal discharge. It is also possible to experience bleeding and pain during intercourse. Regardless of whether you have symptoms, chlamydia is easily transferred so it is a good idea to get screened.

Posted in Chlamydia | Tagged Symptoms of Chlamydia

Is the HIV PCR Test Best for Early Detection?

Written by Megan on September 27, 2012 — Leave a Comment

Q: Help! My girlfriend of two years just told me that she was unfaithful – and she tested positive for HIV! I’m so scared and worried right now, because we had unprotected sex a few weeks ago. I want to get tested right away, but I’m not sure if there are tests that will give me accurate results for early detection. I don’t want to wait for 12 weeks to be tested. I need to know, now. I heard about an HIV PCR test – what can you tell me about this form of testing?

A: First, take a deep breath and calm down. Just because your girlfriend has tested positive does not mean that you will test positive. Yes, you have been exposed, but there is still a good chance that you have not contracted the virus. Another important thing to remember is that medical technology has come a long way, with HIV treatment. Many people still live long, healthy lives while being positive, as long as they stick to their treatment plan.

The HIV PCR test is a great option for early detection of the virus. As opposed to the antibody test, which looks for the body’s immunological response to the virus, the PCR looks directly for the pro-viral DNA of HIV. The test is considered reliable very early on, but it is not considered conclusive until 28 days after an exposure. Since your exposure was a few weeks ago, you should be able to get reliable results from this type of testing, instead of waiting two more months for traditional screening. After the collection has been performed, we typically see results in 3-5 business days.

Posted in HIV and AIDS | Tagged HIV PCR test

Can I Seek STD Tests in Private Settings to Avoid Embarrassment?

Written by Megan on September 25, 2012 — Leave a Comment

Q: I recently had unprotected sex. I’m concerned that I might have exposed myself to sexually transmitted diseases – but I’m too embarrassed to go to my regular doctor for testing. Is there a way I can have STD tests in a private, anonymous setting?

J. Ellis

Albuquerque, New Mexico

A: Yes, there is absolutely a way you can be screened for STDs in a private, anonymous setting. Contact About My Health today and arrange for testing at your convenience. Unlike your doctor’s office or local health department, we will not ask any invasive questions. We will not make you fill out any questionnaires or otherwise explain your sexual history. There are no physical exams or other invasive, embarrassing procedures. Our testing procedure is simple – you contact us and arrange for a convenient time to test. You will not be sent to a health department or other similar facility. Instead, you will be sent to one of our secure, private testing facilities. The testing process is quick and easy and you can have your results back as soon as the next day.

Posted in STD Testing | Tagged STD Testing

What to Expect with a Pre-Employment Drug Test

Written by Megan on September 20, 2012 — Leave a Comment

Q: I have been looking for a job for several months. I finally have an interview next week. The job requires a pre-employment drug test. I’ve never taken a drug test before. Can you tell me what to expect?

T. Rawlings

St. Louis, Missouri

A: Passing a drug test before being hired for a job is standard protocol nowadays. Employers want to make sure they hire clean, sober workers. Not only does a negative test result help you get the job, it also keeps your employer’s insurance rates down.

You have nothing to be afraid of when it comes to taking a drug test. The process is not invasive or embarrassing. If you take your drug test on the spot, you will get immediate results. These types of drug tests are similar to what you can buy in your local pharmacies and discount department stores. They are standard urine tests, in which you put a urine sample into a cup. The cup then reveals the results after a few minutes. However, most pre-employment testing takes place in a lab, such as the labs of About My Health.

For a lab test, again, you will have to give a urine sample. The technician will then take your sample and send it for testing. The results are usually ready in about 1-3 business days. Lab testing for drugs is considered to be more accurate than “on the spot” testing. However, even “on the spot” tests can be sent in for further evaluation. Good luck on your test and your new job!

Posted in Drug Testing, Urine Drug Testing | Tagged pre-employment drug test

Do I Need a Chlamydia Test?

Written by Megan on September 18, 2012 — Leave a Comment

Q: My boyfriend was diagnosed with chlamydia. Since we haven’t been recently sexually active, do I still need to get a chlamydia test? I don’t have any symptoms.

J. Hollingsworth

Boston, Massachusetts

A: Just because you do not show any symptoms of chlamydia does not mean that you are in the clear. The symptoms of chlamydia can include pain while urinating and abnormal discharge – but in many cases, there are no symptoms at all. Since your boyfriend tested positive and you seem to indicate that you have been sexually active with him in the past, you need to be tested.

About My Health offers secure, private testing for chlamydia, along with various other STDs. You can arrange for testing by giving us a call – sometimes, testing can be performed the same day that you call. Don’t panic if you get a positive result. Chlamydia is easily treated with antibiotics. However, if you leave it untreated, it can cause permanent damage, even infertility. Contact About My Health today – the sooner you find out the results, the sooner you can start treatment.

Posted in Chlamydia | Tagged chlamydia test

What is an HIV PCR Test?

Written by Megan on September 13, 2012 — Leave a Comment

Q: My new girlfriend and I were discussing our sexual history a few days ago. She suggested that we both be tested for HIV before taking our relationship to the next level. She mentioned an HIV PCR test – what is this and how is it any different from a traditional HIV test?

G. Roberts

El Paso, TX

A: The HIV DNA PCR panel test is different from other forms of HIV testing because it is designed for early detection. The traditional antibody test typically returns reliable results at 6-12 weeks after a potential exposure, whereas the PCR test can provide conclusive results only 28 days after possible exposure. The PCR looks for the pro-viral DNA of HIV, which is rapidly replicated when an infection has occurred. Technically, this type of testing measures as little as 10 pro-viral DNA copies per mL of blood – in other words, it can detect the virus in the smallest amounts, making it the ideal choice for early detection.

It is wise for you and your partner to be screened for HIV before beginning a sexual relationship. However, do not forget to screen for other STDs. Many STDs do not have noticeable symptoms. Early detection is important, as well as seeking immediate treatment if necessary. Things to consider when testing include the last time you were tested, how many sexual partners you’ve had since your last test and how long it’s been since your last sexual partner. Make sure you discuss these things whenever you arrange for testing to make sure you are getting the tests you want/need.

Posted in HIV and AIDS | Tagged HIV PCR test

Is an HIV DNA Test the Best Option?

Written by Megan on September 11, 2012 — Leave a Comment

Q: I just heard a rumor that someone I slept with might have HIV. I’m really worried right now and want to get tested as soon as possible. I heard that an HIV DNA test might be my best option for early detection. Can you tell me more about this test, as well as the virus? I know there is a lot of misinformation out there and I want to be informed.

J. Thompson

Wichita, KS

A: There is definitely a lot of information on HIV and testing available, and a lot of that information can be misleading or contradicting. Education is the key to understanding HIV, as well as protecting yourself from it and other STDs. HIV is primarily transmitted by exposure to bodily fluids, such as blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and breast milk. Having unprotected sex with multiple partners can put a person at a higher risk of transmission, as will sharing needles for drug use. The DNA PCR test is the best option for someone who is worried about an exposure, but does not want to wait 6-12 weeks for a reliable antibody test.

An HIV DNA PCR panel test can provide conclusive results 28 days after a potential exposure. Test results are still considered reliable even if the test is taken a little before 28 days. Different from the antibody test, which looks for the body’s immunological response to the virus, the PCR test looks for the pro-viral DNA of HIV. It is an advanced test, so it is a bit more expensive than traditional testing and results take a little longer to come back as well. Typically the results of a HIV DNA PCR test are returned within 3-5 business days after the collection. If you are concerned, but don’t want to wait 6-12 weeks to test, the PCR is the best option.

Posted in HIV DNA by PCR | Tagged hiv dna

Which Drugs are Detected by Urine Drug Tests?

Written by Megan on September 6, 2012 — Leave a Comment

Q: I own a small business and have been told that my insurance rates will decrease if I drug test my employees. I’d like to use urine drug tests, but I want to make sure the results will be sufficient. Can you explain which drugs are detected by this type of testing?

A: Urine drug screens are one of the most common ways to test for the presence of drugs. Many employers utilize these types of tests, especially before hiring a potential employee. Some employers also conduct random drug screens and post-accident testing. You can actually choose from several types of urine drug screens, including a 5 panel, 7 panel, 9 panel, and 10 panel. Each “panel” represents a particular set of drugs that the test screens for, such as marijuana, cocaine metabolite and PCP. The 5-panel screening is the most often used by employers, but you can opt for a more in-depth screening.

5 panel – marijuana, amphetamines, cocaine metabolite, opiates, PCP
7 panel – the 5 panel screening plus barbiturates and benzodiazepines
9 panel – the 7 panel screening plus propoxyphene and methadone
10 panel – the 9 panel screening plus methaqualadone

Often times it is an option to include a urine alcohol test with the panel as well for a small additional fee. Keep in mind that the window of detection for a urine screen is fairly limited depending on the drug and history of use. If you have any specific concerns it is important to discuss them with the counselor when you arrange for testing.

Posted in Drug Testing, Urine Drug Testing | Tagged urine drug tests

Learning about STD Tests

Written by Megan on September 4, 2012 — Leave a Comment

Q: As a sexually active person, I am thinking about getting tested for various STDs. I would like to know more about your STD tests, as far as what I can expect, accuracy and timely results.

M. Brewster

Seattle, WA

A: Taking control of your life by getting tested for STDs is a smart choice. As a sexually responsible person, it is important to protect yourself and your partners against STDs. There are many STDs out there and many of them can be cured with medication. The problems start when STDs are left untreated. That is why testing is so important for the sexually active person.

When it comes to STD tests, you have nothing to fear. Here at About My Health, we strive to make the testing process as easy, painless and private as possible. All you have to do is contact us to arrange for a testing date. On this date – sometimes, as soon as the very same day you call – you will go to one of our anonymous testing sites. There, you will submit your sample – either a blood or urine specimen. After that, the results usually take between one and three business days. We’ll make sure you’re testing for what you need to, and when you need to.

Posted in STD Testing | Tagged STD Testing

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What Can I Expect from a Gonorrhea Test?

What are the Symptoms of Chlamydia?

Is the HIV PCR Test Best for Early Detection?

Can I Seek STD Tests in Private Settings to Avoid Embarrassment?

What to Expect with a Pre-Employment Drug Test

Do I Need a Chlamydia Test?

What is an HIV PCR Test?

Is an HIV DNA Test the Best Option?

Which Drugs are Detected by Urine Drug Tests?

Learning about STD Tests

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