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Questions about diagnosis

1.  Can I tell if I have STD?

Not always. Some STD are asymptomatic or the symptoms may be confused with other conditions. You should consult a doctor if you have any suspicious symptoms.

2.  Can you tell if a person is suffering from STD?

STD wouldnt be so common if we could. An infected person may show no symptoms or signs of infection or they may be so mild that they do not arouse suspicion. The person himself or herself may not even know he or she is infected, what more you?

3.  Do rashes on the genitals indicate STD?

Not necessarily. Secondary syphilis may produce rashes but so can other skin disease (Chapter 5). Only a doctor can tell whether a rash is STD related or not.

4.  Does a sore or ulcer on the genitals indicate STD?

It may and you should certainly be suspicious. The more common STD that cause genital ulcers include syphilis, genuital herpes and chancroid. However, ulcers may also be caused by trauma, herpes zoster (shingles) and other skin diseases. Only a doctor can tell whether the ulcer is due to STD or some other cause. Remember also that the absence of an ulcer does not mean that the person is free of STD. Ulcers may be hidden away inside the vagina or between folds of skin whey they cannot be seen or he or she may have an STD that does not produce ulcers.

5.  Does a genital discharge indicate STD?

A small amount of clear discharge may occur in normal individuals, when sexually aroused. It is abnormal when excessive, pussy or associated with pain or itching. It is best to consult a doctor if you are uncertain.

6.  What should I do when I suspect STD?

Stop all sexual activity, see a doctor as soon as possible and inform your sex partner(s). Do not wait because the symptoms may subside while infection spreads deeper. Above all, do not self medicate.

7.  Can STD be diagnosed with blood tests?

Only STD such as syphilis, Hepatitis B, AIDs and lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) can be diagnosed with blood tests. Unless specifically requested, most doctors only perform a VDRL or syphiilis blood test. A negative VDRL test may only exclude syphilis, not other STD. You should inform your doctor if you want to have other STD blood tests.