Painful urination?
Hello Doctor:
1.
I previously engaged in high-risk sexual behavior and have since experienced painful urination.
I tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia, and the results were normal.
Is it possible that gonorrhea and chlamydia have a latent period that could lead to a false negative result? (It has been about three weeks since the encounter.) Should I get retested later?
2.
I also underwent testing for genital warts, and the results were normal.
It was suggested that it might be eczema.
How accurate is the initial testing for genital warts? Should I get retested later?
3.
The doctor advised me to return for syphilis and HIV testing after three months.
Recently, I developed a rash, which made me anxious, so I went for an HIV RT PCR test, and the results were normal.
Should I get retested later?
A-Hua, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/01/09
Dr. Lin Hexing reply Urology
Hello: 1.
The incubation period for Chlamydia is 3 to 14 days, and the same applies to gonorrhea.
If it has been more than three weeks, you can be reassured.
2.
The diagnosis of common warts requires the presence of obvious wart lesions.
3.
If you still have concerns, you can retest in three months.
Wishing you good health.
Reply Date: 2014/01/09
More Info
Dear Patient,
Thank you for your questions regarding painful urination and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). I understand that this can be a concerning issue, and I will address each of your questions in detail.
1. Gonorrhea and Chlamydia Testing: Both gonorrhea and chlamydia can indeed have incubation periods during which they may not be detectable by standard tests. Generally, symptoms can appear anywhere from 1 to 14 days after exposure, but it is possible for some individuals to remain asymptomatic for longer periods. If you engaged in risky sexual behavior approximately three weeks ago and tested negative for both infections, it is advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend retesting, especially if you continue to experience symptoms like painful urination. The recommendation for retesting can vary based on your symptoms and risk factors, so it’s essential to discuss this with your doctor.
2. Accuracy of HPV Testing: When it comes to testing for human papillomavirus (HPV), the accuracy can depend on the type of test used and the timing of the test in relation to exposure. If you were tested for HPV and the results were normal, it is possible that you do not have an active infection. However, some strains of HPV can remain dormant for years, and the tests may not detect all types of HPV. If you have concerns about warts or other symptoms, it may be worth discussing further testing or monitoring with your healthcare provider. If your symptoms persist or worsen, follow-up testing may be warranted.
3. HIV and Syphilis Testing: The timeline for testing for HIV and syphilis is crucial. The window period for HIV testing can vary depending on the type of test used. For instance, the HIV RT PCR test can detect the virus earlier than antibody tests, but it is still recommended to follow up with antibody testing after three months for conclusive results. Since you mentioned having a rash, it is understandable to feel anxious. If you have already had a negative HIV RT PCR test, it is a good sign, but you should still follow your doctor’s advice regarding retesting at the three-month mark. For syphilis, similar guidelines apply; it is essential to follow up as recommended by your healthcare provider.
In summary, while initial tests can provide valuable information, they are not always definitive, especially in the context of STIs with potential incubation periods. It is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider, report any ongoing or new symptoms, and adhere to their recommendations for follow-up testing. Additionally, practicing safe sex and getting regular STI screenings can help manage your sexual health effectively.
If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice and support.
Best wishes for your health,
Doctor Q&A Teams
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