Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are common infections that spread during unprotected sex or skin-to-skin contact. Many STDs are asymptomatic or go undetected, but testing is the best way to find out if you have an infection.

The purpose of screening and diagnosis is to identify and treat patients with STDs before they develop complications and spread disease to others. A standard 10-test STD panel will help you determine whether you have a sexually transmitted disease.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted disease (STD) that can be passed from one person to another through oral, anal or genital contact. It is often missed because the bacteria that cause it don’t usually create symptoms.

The CDC recommends yearly testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea for anyone who is younger than age 25 and is sexually active. It also recommends testing for people who have multiple sex partners and pregnant women.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI). It can be passed from one person to another through vaginal intercourse, anal sex, oral sex, and sharing sex toys that have not been cleaned or protected with a condom.

Gonorrhea can be diagnosed by looking at a sample of discharge or tissue under the microscope. It can also be detected with DNA tests, which are quicker and more accurate than cultures.

Syphilis

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that is most often passed from one person to another. It can cause serious long-term complications such as arthritis, brain damage and blindness.

Symptoms of syphilis may not appear until several months after exposure. In the first stage, a small sore, called a chancre, appears on your genitals.

A swab of the sore is sent to a laboratory, where it is studied for signs of syphilis. If syphilis is detected, you will need treatment right away to cure the infection. Getting treated early can help prevent complications from the infection and protect you and your partner from passing it on to a baby during pregnancy.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a serious virus that can lead to liver failure or cirrhosis. It is most often acquired through sexual contact with someone who has the virus.

Hepatitis B can be passed to others through blood or body fluids (like semen, vaginal fluids, or saliva). Fortunately, most people who get infected can be cured with oral therapy and live healthy lives.

Hepatitis B testing looks for antigens, antibodies, or the genetic material of the virus in your blood. HBsAg, for example, is a protein antigen that the virus produces and can be detected in high levels during both acute and chronic hepatitis B infection.

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a common infection that can affect your liver. It’s also a risk factor for HIV.

Hepatitis C infections can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-lasting). The first signs of hepatitis C often happen between 2 and 12 weeks after contact with the virus.

It is especially important for people who inject drugs and share needles to be tested regularly. They should also avoid sharing any other drug-related equipment.

Herpes 1 & 2

Herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that causes sores and blisters on your genitals. It’s also a common problem in the United States, affecting more than 1 in 6 people.

Herpes can be hard to diagnose because it can look like other STIs, like syphilis. That’s why getting tested is important.

Herpes tests can be done in a doctor’s office or clinic, or at home. In-person tests are usually more accurate because a lab technician or healthcare professional can take a sample correctly.

HIV 1 & 2

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a sexually transmitted infection that can lead to destruction of the immune system. It can also cause AIDS, which is deadly.

While HIV does not always have symptoms, it’s important to get tested. It’s especially important for people who have had unprotected sex with someone infected with syphilis or gonorrhea.

Quest Diagnostics offers an STD testing panel that includes blood and urine tests for chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and syphilis. It also includes an HIV RNA test for early detection of HIV.