Jaanch - STD Profile Basic

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), also known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), are very common. In fact, more than 1 million curable STIs are acquired every day worldwide. These infections are caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites, and many of them do not show any symptoms. Because of this, timely testing is very important.

An STD basic profile test helps assess the risk of infection early, before it leads to serious or long-term health problems. Doctors usually recommend a sexually transmitted disease (STD) test if they believe you may be at risk or have been exposed. Since these infections can easily spread through sexual contact, getting tested helps protect both your health and your partner’s health.

You may consider taking this test in the following situations:

• After a recent exposure (especially in areas where infections are common)
• Before planning a pregnancy (as it may be passed on to the baby)
• Before starting a new relationship (if sexually active)
• If you have symptoms like unusual discharge, sores, pain while peeing, itching, stomach pain, or fever
• If you have had unprotected sex (without condoms)
• If your partner has been diagnosed with an STI
• If you have recently been in jail
• If you use drugs that involve needles or injections

Note: Doctors may even recommend STD and HIV testing as a routine checkup, as the tests can help detect infections early, even if you do not have any symptoms yet.

The frequency of STD testing (as shown in the table below) varies based on your sexual activity, risk of exposure, and overall health needs. It helps ensure early detection and better protection.

Note: Your doctor may ask about your symptoms and recent exposure (like unprotected sex or new partners) to determine the right tests and their frequency.

This profile helps detect the following infections:

• Hepatitis B: A liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus. It may lead to tiredness, jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes), and long-term liver damage.
• Hepatitis C: A liver infection caused by the hepatitis C virus, often with no early symptoms. It may lead to serious liver problems if not treated.
• Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): A virus that weakens the body’s immune system and makes it harder to fight infections and diseases.
• Herpes (HSV-1 & HSV-2): A viral infection that causes blisters or sores. HSV-1 affects the mouth, while HSV-2 affects the genital area.
• Syphilis: A bacterial infection that usually starts with painless sores on the sex organs or mouth. If untreated, it can affect the skin, other organs, and overall health.
• Chlamydia: A common bacterial infection that may not show symptoms initially. It can cause discharge, pain, and fertility problems if untreated.

What to Expect Before the Jaanch STD Profile Basic Test

• No fasting is required for a standalone Jaanch STD Profile Basic Test. 
• You can eat and drink normally. If this test is part of a broader panel (e.g., lipid profile), fasting for 8 to 12 hours may be needed. 
• Always inform your doctor about any ongoing medications - especially steroids, blood thinners, or chemotherapy.

What to Expect During the Blood Collection

A phlebotomist cleans the skin with an antiseptic, then places an elastic band around your upper arm to make the veins easier to access. A small needle is inserted into the vein - you may feel a brief pinch. Blood is collected into a labelled tube in under a minute.

What to Expect After the Jaanch STD Profile Basic Test

A small cotton swab and bandage are placed over the site to stop any minor bleeding. You can return to normal activities immediately. Minor bruising is normal and disappears quickly. If dizzy, sit and rest for a few minutes.

The STD basic profile includes a total of 12 parameters: 

1. Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Test
2. Venereal disease research laboratory (VDRL) Test
3. Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Antibody Test
4. Human Immunodeficiency Virus I & II (HIV I & II) Antibodies Test
5. Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV-1) Test (2 Parameters)
   • HSV-1 IgM
   • HSV-1 IgG
6. Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (HSV-2) Test (2 Parameters)
   • HSV-2 IgM
   • HSV-2 IgG
7. Anti-Chlamydia Antibody Test (2 Parameters)
   • Chlamydia IgM
   • Chlamydia IgG
8. Treponema Pallidum Tests (2 Parameters)
   • Treponema Pallidum Hemagglutination (TPHA)
   • Treponema Pallidum Antibody (TPAB) \

In an STD profile test, a normal result usually means no infection is detected, with most tests showing negative or non-reactive results.

Note: 

• Any positive or reactive result should be discussed with a doctor for further evaluation.
• STD blood test results may vary depending on the stage of infection.
• For the exact STD test price, please contact your local diagnostic center or check online platforms.

The table below explains how to read your STD test results and what negative or positive results may indicate.

Note: Any positive/reactive result should be checked with a doctor.

Testing is generally safe. However, possible risks and limitations of the test include:

• Risks (rare and usually mild):
  • Mild discomfort during blood sample collection.
  • Slight bruising at the needle site can happen, but it goes away quickly.
• Understanding the Limitations:
  • This is a screening test and may need follow-up tests for confirmation.
  • Some infections may not show up on this profile if tested too early.
  • Results can vary slightly between laboratories.

If any of the STD Profile Basic test results are positive, your doctor may suggest further tests, which include: 

• HIV viral load
• Urine tests
• Liver function tests
• HCV RNA test
• HBV DNA test
• Chlamydia (PCR)
• Gonorrhoea (PCR)

Note: Sometimes, your doctor may order repeated testing after a few weeks if they feel you are at risk. This is because some tests may show a negative result if tested very early.