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Sexually Transmitted Infections

Sexual health is an important part of our general health. However, it is something that is often neglected, in some cases out of embarrassment or apprehension about the process of being diagnosed and treated. You can take control of your health by making the most informed healthcare decisions.

STIs

Many people are unaware that they have a sexually transmitted infection (STI). STIs, or sexually transmitted infections, are common. There are about 20 million new cases of STIs in the US each year.1

Without knowing, you may be at risk for developing complications or could pass an infection to a current or future partner. Whether you is starting a new relationship or is in an existing relationship and having unprotected sex, there are test options available that can help you make informed decisions about your sexual health.

GenPath offers a convenient list of tests that can provide your healthcare provider with timely results for multiple infections from easy-to-collect samples. These tests allow you to be aware of your status, actively treat infection, and potentially avoid further complications.

Vaginal Infections

Unlike STIs, vaginal infections can naturally occur based on a change in the bacteria and yeast in the vagina.2

The good news: GenPath offers revolutionary test options, using our One Collection, a Targeted Detection approach to support the diagnosis of STIs and vaginal infections.

How do I get Tested?

During your regular pelvic exam, your healthcare provider will collect a sample from the vaginal/cervical area. From the one collected sample, your healthcare provider can test for a number of STIs and other vaginal infections, based on your symptoms.

What are the Most Common STIs and Vaginal Infections?

Chlamydia and gonorrhea are the highest reported STIs in the United States.3 Other common STIs and vaginal infections include trichomonas, HPV, herpes simplex, yeast, bacterial vaginosis, and aerobic vaginitis.2,3

DISEASE/INFECTION/CONDITION RESPONSIBLE ORGANISMS
Chlamydia Chlamydia trachomatis (CT)
Gonorrhea Neisseria gonorrhea (GC) (NG)
Trichomoniasis Trichomonas vaginalis
Mycoplasma genitalium (M. gen) Mycoplasma genitalium
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) Anaerobic bacteria species including: Gardnerella vaginalis, Atopobium vaginae, Megasphaera type 1, Bacterial vaginosis-Associated bacterium 2 (BVAB2), and Mobiluncus species (not part of panel but can be added –)
Aerobic vaginitis (AV) Aerobic bacteria species including: Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Group A streptococcus, Group B streptococcus
Vulvovaginal candidasis (yeast) Candida species (yeast): Candida genus, C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. dubliniensis, C. parapsilosis, C. tropicalis, C. krusei
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) CT, GC, Mycoplasma, Ureaplasma, Anaerobic bacteria, Trichomonas vaginalis
Syphilis Treponema pallidum
Herpes Herpes simplex virus (HSV) 1 and 2

What Happens if My Test is Positive?

Depending on the organism, your healthcare provider may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics or anti-fungal remedies, and may suggest that your partner be tested as well. Many conditions do not have any symptoms. Your healthcare provider may suggest repeat testing after prescribing medication. Your healthcare provider may also choose a “wait and see” approach in instances where the situation may correct itself without the need for medication.

References
  1. Center for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/std/life-stages-populations/adolescents-youngadults.htm. Accessed March 28, 2019.
  2. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
    https://www.acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Vaginitis?IsMobileSet=false#what. Accessed May 23, 2019.
  3. Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
    https://www.cdc.gov/std/stats17/2017-STD-Surveillance-Report_CDC-clearance-9.10.18.pdf. Accessed March 28, 2019.