Medical Dermatology
Diagnosis and treatments of clinical dermatology conditions for adults and children.
Aesthetic Dermatology
Protect, maintain and restore skin health with medical aesthetic treatments.
Skin Cancers
Management and thorough examinations of skin cancers and pre-cancers.
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Treatments for infections that are commonly spread by sexual contact.
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI), also referred to as Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) and Venereal Diseases (VD), are infections that are commonly spread by sexual contact. You can get an STI by having vaginal sex, anal sex, or oral sex.
There are several different types of STIs. Some of the most common STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhoea, genital warts, herpes and syphilis. Most STIs are treatable or curable. Chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis are curable, whereas herpes and human papillomavirus (HPV) are treatable but not curable.
It is recommended that you undergo regular STI testing. Knowing your test results can help put your mind at ease, keep you safe, and make sure that you are not putting your partner at risk. Moreover, early detection is often essential in ensuring the successful treatment of STIs. Thomson Specialist Skin Centre offers STI screenings/testing in Singapore, and provides treatments for all of the above-mentioned STIs.
What are the symptoms of a sexually transmitted infection?
These are the common symptoms to look out for:
- Discharge from the vagina or penis
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- A sore, ulcer, rash, or lump that appears on the penis or around the vagina, vulva or anus
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Swelling of the scrotum
If you or your partner exhibit one or more of these symptoms, you should go for Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) screening. It is also important to note that some STIs cause no visible symptoms. However, you can still pass on the infection to others even if you have no symptoms. Thus, we recommend going for STI testing yearly if you are sexually active. This can be done on either urine in both men and women, vaginal or cervical swabs in women, or urethral swabs in men.
If you suspect that you have a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD), contact Thomson Specialist Skin Centre to set up your first appointment for an STI screening.
Common STI Conditions and Treatments In Singapore
According to studies conducted by the Singapore Department of Sexually Transmitted Infections (DSC), there has been a rise in STI cases in Singapore since 2014. Chlamydia has the highest incidence rate in Singapore, followed by gonorrhoea and syphilis in second and third, respectively.
It is possible and not uncommon for someone to be infected with more than one STI. Moreover, some infected patients may not display any signs of STI, or the infections may linger in their bodies for weeks or months before symptoms develop.
Therefore it is essential for you to schedule regular STI testing with a medical clinic in Singapore to prevent complications from developing and to keep you and your partner safe. If you are in a new active sexual relationship, have had casual sex, have multiple sex partners, or suspect that you or your partner have an STI, you should go for an STI screening as soon as possible.
At Thomson Specialist Skin Centre, we offer treatments for the following STIs:
The Important of Regular STI Screening in Singapore
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) pose a significant public health challenge worldwide and can have severe consequences on individuals’ health and well-being if left undetected and untreated. Hence, regular STI testing plays a crucial role in preventing the spread of infections, promoting early diagnosis, and ensuring timely treatment. In Singapore, where sexual health is prioritised, STI screening is of utmost importance for individuals of all ages and sexual orientations.
Regular STI testing not only enables early detection and treatment, but also prevents further transmission, promotes responsible sexual behaviour, and reduces health disparities. This empowers individuals to take charge of their sexual health, contribute to community well-being, and work towards creating a safer and healthier society.
Facts of STIs
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), also known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), are a group of infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites that are primarily transmitted through sexual contact. These infections can affect people of all ages, genders, and sexual orientations. Common STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV), and HIV/AIDS.
Many STIs can have serious health consequences if left untreated, including infertility, organ damage, and an increased risk of other infections. Prevention through safe sexual practices, regular testing, and vaccination (in the case of HPV) is crucial in combating the spread of STIs and protecting individual and public health.
STI Testing and Screening in Singapore
- Research Testing Centres: Start by researching and identifying reputable clinics or healthcare facilities in Singapore that offer STI testing services. Ensure that the chosen facility follows confidentiality and privacy protocols.
- Schedule an Appointment: Contact the chosen healthcare facility and schedule an appointment for STI testing. Many clinics offer online booking options for convenience.
- Check Testing Requirements: Depending on your specific concerns and sexual history, understand the different types of STI tests available. Discuss your situation with the healthcare provider to determine which tests are most appropriate for you.
- Abstain from Sexual Activity: In the days leading up to the test, it’s advisable to abstain from sexual activity or use protection (condoms) to reduce the risk of new infections that might affect the accuracy of the test results.
- Prepare Questions: Prepare any questions or concerns you have about STIs to discuss with the healthcare provider during the appointment. They can provide information about prevention, safe practices, and the meaning of the test results.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding STIs
An STI can develop within a few days, weeks, months, or even years after exposure. Moreover, some may not even exhibit any symptoms, making it difficult to know if you have an STI. If you are in a new active sexual relationship, have had casual sex, have multiple sex partners, or suspect that you or your partner have an STI, you should undergo STI testing as soon as possible.
Generally, you can go for an STI screening within a few weeks of exposure. Even if you do not have sex regularly, it is still recommended to undergo STI testing yearly.
There are various treatment options for STIs available, depending on the condition. Common treatment methods include:
- Antibiotics
- Other oral or topical medications
- Surgery
- Laser
Your doctor will also suggest you make several lifestyle alterations, including abstaining from sex until your treatment is complete. Do note that some STIs, such as herpes, HPV, and HIV, are treatable but not curable.
If you suspect that you may have contracted an STI, please get an STI screening immediately. Your doctor can advise you accordingly upon receiving the results of your STI testing.