Infections of intimate areas should be subjected to diagnostics as soon as possible after the potential infection. A rapid introduction of appropriate treatment will prevent the development of the venereal disease and protect against possible complications. Please note that the recommended time for performing the test may vary depending on the chosen diagnostic method.
Testing for antibodies against specific pathogens (blood test) can be performed several weeks after a risky intimate situation. The reason for this is the so-called serological window, i.e. the time that must elapse from the moment of infection to the appearance of specific antibodies in the patient’s blood. This time varies depending on the pathogen being examined.
Genetic tests that make use of molecular biology techniques can be performed much faster. In the examined material, which is usually a swab from a potentially infected spot (urethra, cervix, oral cavity), the presence of the DNA (genetic material) of a given infectious agent is detected. The advantage of this technique is also the possibility of detecting multiple microorganisms in one test at the same time.
It is necessary to undergo the tests if the patient notices any disturbing symptoms or has had intercourse with a potentially infected person.