Understanding the STD Window Periods

1. Understanding the STD Window Periods www.mylabbox.com

2. This is the time lag between the point when an individual is exposed to an infection, and the time when the infection is due for testing. It should not be confused with incubation period (time between infection and the start of symptoms). Worth noting is the fact that it is possible to pass on an STD from one person to the next during this window period. Today, we live in a world where STDs are rampant; thus, it is of substance for everyone to have the knowledge on the incubation and testing timeframes of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is vital to get an STD test at the right time so as to take the necessary measures, i.e. if it turns positive, treatment starts immediately and if negative, it shouldn’t leave a puzzle.

3. Factors Affecting Window Periods • Type of infection i.e. viral, bacterial or fungal. • The incubation period of the infection. • Immunity and general health of an individual. • Tests used to detect the disease. • Medical operations such as chemotherapy and organ transplant.

4. STD Incubation and Testing Timeframes Guide

5. HIV The Human Immunodeficiency Virus is tested in two ways: The antibody test (1 to 3 months) : This is the commonest test for HIV. The body produces antibodies in the event of an infection. This test is, therefore, dependent on the responsiveness of the body’s immunity and thus it requires time before the immunity produces antibodies. HIV positive outcomes always need a reconfirmation by performing a second test. If the test is negative, it is advisable to carry out routine tests after every three months for someone who has a sexual partner. Viral load(RNA) test (9 to 11 days) : This kind of test measures the magnitude of the HIV virus in the blood. However, they are not always accurate and are a bit expensive. After a positive outcome, another test should be carried out for confirmation.

6. Gonorrhea (2 to 6 days) ‘Neisseria gonorrhoeae’ is the bacterium that causes gonorrhea. It is transmitted through intercourse or via any body fluid. Seeking treatment for gonorrhea can be tough since the symptoms do not occur in some people or they may take a lot of time before they appear. If a test shows positive results for gonorrhea, the right treatment is administered and another test should be done fourteen days after the end of the treatment.

7. Syphilis (3 to 6 weeks) It is caused by ‘Treponemapallidum’ bacteria and the disease can cause detrimental effects if not treated at the right time.

8. This is a bacterial STD. Possible detection of chlamydia can happen within the very first of the suspected infection. If testing is done before the end of the window period, it is necessary to conduct another test. In addition, if someone tests positive, a retest should be done at the end of treatment just to confirm if the infection is cleared. Chlamydia (1 to 5 Days)

9. Hepatitis A (2 to7 weeks) This is a liver disease that does not have a definite cause. Once someone is infected with Hepatitis A, the disease stays in the body forever because it has no cure. Therefore there is no need for a retest after a positive result.

10. Hepatitis B (3 to 6 weeks) & Hepatitis C (8 to 9 weeks) Once again these diseases do not require a retest after the first tests turn positive.

11. Herpes simplex (4 to 6 weeks) This is a viral infection and is incurable. Negative tests call for another test after three months. However, retesting is not necessary if someone is positive.

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