Want to know which STI test you need as a woman? For most women without symptoms, a test for chlamydia, gonorrhoea and trichomonas is a sensible base, possibly with HIV and syphilis added. Chlamydia has for years been the most frequently found STI in women in the Netherlands. Many infections cause no symptoms, and that is exactly why a check makes sense.
I notice many women only think about testing once symptoms appear. That is understandable, but usually just a bit too late.
Which STIs are most common in women?
In women, chlamydia and gonorrhoea are found most often, followed by trichomonas. For a complete picture, HIV and syphilis belong on the list too. According to the RIVM, chlamydia is the most diagnosed STI in the Netherlands, especially in women under 25.
That chlamydia is so common has partly to do with age, partly with the fact that the infection runs silently. You can carry it for months without noticing a thing.
What are STI symptoms in women?
Symptoms that can point to an STI include changed discharge, a burning feeling when you pee, bleeding between your periods, pain in your lower abdomen or pain during sex. Yet many women have no symptoms at all, even with an STI.
Discharge also changes with your cycle or a yeast infection. When discharge does or does not point to an STI is explained in discharge: when does it point to an STI?.
Do you have symptoms? Then do not put off testing.
Which STI test do you need as a woman?
That depends on your situation: whether you have symptoms, whether you have changing partners, or whether you simply want certainty. For many women, a combination test for chlamydia, gonorrhoea and trichomonas is a logical starting point. The table below helps you on your way, but does not replace advice from your GP or the GGD.
| Your situation | Test that often fits |
|---|---|
| No symptoms, but you have had sex | Chlamydia, gonorrhoea and trichomonas together |
| Symptoms such as discharge or burning | Combination test, and check with a doctor if in doubt |
| New or changing partners | Broader check, including HIV and syphilis |
| Trying to conceive | Check beforehand, together with your partner |
This table is a guide, not a prescription. Not sure which test fits you? Start with our guide which STI test do you need, and when?. With us you can do the anonymous chlamydia, gonorrhoea and trichomonas test, or a single chlamydia test.
Can you have an STI without symptoms?
Yes, and in women that is the rule rather than the exception. Chlamydia often runs without symptoms, so an infection can stay unnoticed. That is why testing can make sense, even when you feel perfectly fine.
Untreated chlamydia can sometimes spread up to the womb and fallopian tubes. According to a review by Haggerty and colleagues (Journal of Infectious Diseases, 2010), in some women that can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, which is sometimes linked to reduced fertility. How large that risk is per person varies a great deal.
Why testing without symptoms is worthwhile is explained in STI test without symptoms: is testing still useful?.
How often should you get checked as a woman?
There is no single number that fits everyone. With changing partners or after unprotected sex, checking more often makes sense than in a steady relationship. The GGD and your GP can help you judge what fits your situation.
My honest view: keep testing small. A short check a few times a year feels better than years of wondering whether everything is fine.
Frequently asked questions about STI testing in women
Which STI is most common in women? Chlamydia, followed by gonorrhoea and trichomonas. According to the RIVM, chlamydia is the most found STI, especially in young women. Precisely because it often runs silently, a test is the only way to know for sure.
Can a cervical smear detect an STI? The cervical cancer screening tests for HPV, not for other STIs. For chlamydia, gonorrhoea or trichomonas a separate STI test is needed.
Should my partner get tested too? That is often wise, because otherwise you can reinfect each other. Discuss testing together calmly; it simply belongs to a new situation.
Can I test during my period? For most STI tests that is fine, but if in doubt, just ask the testing provider. That way you avoid waiting unnecessarily.
Is an STI test painful? Usually not. Depending on the test it involves some urine, a little blood or a self-taken swab. For most women the discomfort is minor.
Every STI result we provide is assessed by a BIG-registered doctor. If you have symptoms, are unsure about your situation or are pregnant, discuss it with your GP or the GGD; this article is meant as explanation, not as medical advice.
Sources
- RIVM, STI
- Soa Aids Nederland, Chlamydia
- Thuisarts.nl, STI
- Haggerty CL et al. Risk of sequelae after Chlamydia trachomatis genital infection in women. J Infect Dis. 2010 (PMID 20470050).
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