STD Testing and Treatment: Your Questions Answered

Q: STD Testing and Treatment: Your Questions Answered

Hello： 1) If the test results from a major hospital are normal, they should be reliable. <br>2) The diagnosis of gonorrhea is mostly based on unsafe sexual behavior and symptoms, supplemented by culture (pus/urine) or staining. <br>Hospitals generally follow this approach; there

Sexually Transmitted Infection Inquiry 2

Hello Doctor, I am Xiao Ming from #166701.
Last January, I visited the urology department after experiencing painful urination and frequency due to unprotected sexual intercourse.
The doctor initially prescribed antibiotics to treat Chlamydia and Trichomonas, but after a week, my symptoms only slightly improved.
Upon my follow-up visit, the doctor administered an out-of-pocket injection for the treatment of gonorrhea and prescribed a week of oral ciprofloxacin.
About three weeks after the treatment, I paid for tests for gonorrhea and Chlamydia DNA, both of which were negative.
In November, I tested my urine DNA again, and it was also negative.

1.
Doctor, does my attending physician believe that the negative test results indicate that I no longer have an infection? Is that correct?
2.
I was treated at Fu Jen Catholic University Hospital, but they do not have the equipment to test for gonorrhea.
Should I consider transferring to another facility for further evaluation?

Xiao Ming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/26

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: 1) If the test results from a major hospital are normal, they should be reliable.
2) The diagnosis of gonorrhea is mostly based on unsafe sexual behavior and symptoms, supplemented by culture (pus/urine) or staining.
Hospitals generally follow this approach; there is nothing particularly special about it.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/03/26

More Info

Hello, Xiaoming. Thank you for sharing your medical history and concerns regarding your STD testing and treatment. It’s understandable to have questions after experiencing symptoms and undergoing treatment. Let’s address your queries one by one.

1. Understanding Negative Test Results: When your healthcare provider states that your tests for gonorrhea and chlamydia (披衣菌) are negative, it generally indicates that there is no current infection detected. The tests you underwent, particularly the DNA tests, are highly sensitive and specific for detecting these infections. Given that you received appropriate antibiotic treatment and your follow-up tests returned negative results, it is reasonable to conclude that the infections have been effectively treated. However, it’s important to consider that symptoms can sometimes persist due to other non-infectious causes, such as irritation or inflammation of the urinary tract. If you continue to experience symptoms, it would be wise to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

2. Considering a Change of Facility: If your current facility, in this case, Fu Jen Catholic University Hospital, does not have the necessary equipment to perform specific tests for gonorrhea or other STDs, it may be beneficial to seek care at a facility that specializes in sexual health or has a broader range of diagnostic capabilities. Access to comprehensive testing can help ensure that any potential infections are accurately diagnosed and treated. You might want to consider visiting a clinic that specializes in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or a urology department that has the appropriate resources.

In addition to these points, it’s essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. If you have ongoing symptoms or concerns, don’t hesitate to express these during your visits. They may recommend additional tests or referrals to specialists if necessary.

Further Recommendations:
- Regular Follow-ups: Even after negative results, it’s advisable to have regular check-ups, especially if you have a history of STIs or if you engage in high-risk behaviors. Regular screenings can help catch any potential issues early.

- Safe Practices: Continue practicing safe sex to reduce the risk of future infections. This includes using condoms and having open discussions with partners about sexual health.

- Education: Educate yourself about STIs, their symptoms, and prevention methods. Understanding these aspects can empower you to make informed decisions regarding your sexual health.

In conclusion, based on your negative test results and the treatment you received, it appears that you are no longer infected with gonorrhea or chlamydia. However, if symptoms persist, seeking further evaluation at a facility with comprehensive testing capabilities would be a prudent step. Always prioritize your health and well-being by staying informed and proactive in your healthcare journey.

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