STD Test Cost in India

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are diseases that pass from one individual to another through sexual contact. But is there any other way?  Yes, STDs can also be transmitted through blood transfusions, infected or non sterile needles etc. Getting a test is therefore important for early detection and effective treatment of STDs. The STD test price in India varies based on the test type, package and diagnostic centre. Whether you are seeking a basic STD blood test or a comprehensive STD panel test, Birla Fertility & IVF offers the best quality facilities at transparent pricing.

Cost of STD Test in India

The cost of STD tests in India can vary among different labs. At Birla Fertility and IVF, we provide affordable and quality test facilities.

Test Name	Cost (INR)	Description
STD Test	₹2,150	Screens for sexually transmitted diseases
Doctor Consultation	Varies according to Doctor	To get clarity on the reports

Factors Affecting STD Test Cost in India

Several factors influence the cost of STD tests in India

Factor	Details	Impact
Type of Test	Basic tests like HIV or syphilis cost less as compared to comprehensive packages.	Basic tests have lower costs; comprehensive packages are priced higher due to larger coverage.
Method Used	Blood, urine, and swab tests vary in cost based on the procedure and complexity.	Blood tests are generally moderate, while swab tests can be more expensive.
Testing Centres	Urban diagnostic labs typically charge higher due to advanced facilities and infrastructure.	Urban centres cost more; local labs are more budget-friendly but may need more advanced resources.
Panel Options	Single tests focus on specific infections, whereas STD panels including multiple tests cover multiple infections.	Single tests are cheaper, while panels offer a broader scope and are therefore charged at a higher price.

Different STD Panel Tests

STD panel tests are detailed test packages that consist of multiple tests and are used to detect more than one sexually transmitted disease simultaneously. Such panels are comparatively cost-effective, they are time-saving and made in a way that users can diagnose their health and check for any infection. The STD panel test covers the following common infections: 1. HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)

• What is it?

HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system and can cause AIDS if not treated on time.

• What are the tests?

ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) for antibodies. Antigen tests or PCR are used to detect viral load.

• Purpose of the Tests: They help detect HIV so that the right treatment plans can be made.
• Benefits: Timely intervention can help prevent the development of AIDS and also decrease the chances of passing the disease to others.

2. Syphilis

• What is it?

It is a bacterial infection that transfers through sexual contact.

• What are the tests?

Blood tests like VDRL (Venereal Disease Research Laboratory) are done to identify the infection. Another test that helps in detection is Rapid Plasma Reagin also known as RPR.

• Purpose of the Tests: The tests help identify Treponema pallidum. It is the bacteria which is responsible for syphilis.
• Benefits: If not treated, syphilis can cause severe complications like organ damage or neurological issues. Therefore, timely diagnosis is important.

3. Chlamydia

• What is it?

It is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection that usually has no symptoms.

• What are the tests?

•  Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests (NAATs) on urine or swab samples are performed to detect the infection.

• Purpose of the Tests: The tests help in detecting the presence of Chlamydia trachomatis.
• Benefits: Chlamydia if left untreated, can lead to infertility or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Therefore, monitoring the condition is advised.

4. Gonorrhoea

• What is it?

A bacterial infection affecting the genital tract, throat, or rectum.

• What are the tests?

NAAT (nucleic acid amplification test) is performed using urine or genital swab samples.

• Purpose of the Tests: The test helps detect Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
• Benefits: If this disease is not treated, it may cause complications for reproductive health as well as overall wellness. Hence, tests are needed to keep a check.

5. Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1 and HSV-2)

• What is it?

A viral infection that causes oral sores ( also known as HSV-1) or genital sores (also known as HSV-2).

• What are the tests?

Blood tests to detect antibodies or swab tests for sores.

• Purpose of the Tests: Screens for the viruses causing oral and genital herpes.
• Benefits: Herpes Simplex virus is non-curable but it is treatable and manageable. Early intervention helps to control its effects and avoid its spread.

Advantages of a Comprehensive STD Panel Test

• Cost-Effective: It is more affordable to undergo a comprehensive STD panel test than to get every test separately for different STDs.
• Time-Saving: The testing can be done in one visit making it convenient.
• Holistic Screening: It offers more coverage and can confirm several diseases including those with no evident symptoms.
• Treatment Planning: It is advantageous because an inclusive STD panel enables early treatment since multiple infections are detected at once. This opens up the possibility for better treatment options depending on the individual case.

Suggestion A comprehensive STD panel is recommended for anyone who requires a detailed evaluation of their sexual health. Not only does it identify infections, but also makes the person informed about their health so that they can get timely treatment.

Benefit	Explanation	Why It’s Important
Early Detection	Identifies infections in their initial stages before symptoms worsen or complications arise.	Early treatment can prevent severe health issues like infertility, organ damage, or long-term infections.
Peace of Mind	Helps individuals know their health status, especially those with active or multiple sexual relationships.	Reduces anxiety and uncertainty, promoting mental well-being and informed decision-making.
Prevention	Detects infections early, preventing transmission to sexual partners and others.	Protects loved ones and the wider community, curbing the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.
Treatment Planning	Provides critical information for doctors to design an effective and personalised treatment plan.	Ensures prompt and targeted intervention, improving health outcomes and recovery speed.

Who Should Take an STD Test?

Category	Explanation	Why is Testing Important?
Individuals with Symptoms	Those experiencing prolonged genital discomfort, unusual discharge, rashes or painful urination should consult a doctor.	Symptoms may indicate the possibility of an STD but these may be due to other issues as well. Tests help in confirming the condition.
Multiple Sexual Partners	Individuals engaging in relationships with more than one partner are at high risk.	Due to increased exposure and risk, regular screening is important to the ensure health and safety of all involved.
Unprotected Intercourse or High-Risk Activities	Anyone exposed to unprotected sex, needle sharing or other high-risk behaviours.	The tests help identify the infections that may not yet show symptoms. This helps reduce the risk of disease progression.
Asymptomatic Individuals	People without symptoms but want a comprehensive health check-up to rule out any condition.	Some STDs remain silent for years. Regular monitoring ensures hidden infections are detected and managed early.

The tests for STDs are meant to detect particular pathogens that are responsible for causing STDs.

1. Viral Infections:
   • HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus): HIV is the virus that if not treated on time can cause AIDS. The diagnosis is usually performed through blood or saliva samples.
   • Herpes: Herpes: It is a viral infection caused by two types of strains i.e. HSV-1 (herpes simplex virus type-1) or HSV-2 (herpes simplex virus-type 2). The tests involve swabs or blood samples.
2. Bacterial Infections:
   • Syphilis: It is a bacterial infection tested via blood tests to detect antibodies.
   • Gonorrhoea: It is caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae which is detected through urine or swab tests.
   • Chlamydia: This is also a bacterial infection usually tested through urine or swab tests.
3. Parasitic Infections:
   • Trichomoniasis: The infection is caused by a parasite and detected using wet mount microscopy or molecular tests.

Purpose of Testing

• Enables one to establish the exact nature of an infection.
• Provides direction on the kind of treatments to be given.
• Prevents further transmission of the infection.

By accurately measuring these infections, STD tests ensure early detection and effective management, therefore, promoting better sexual health.

Preparation for STD Testing

How to Prepare:

• Fast if instructed (for specific blood tests).
• Avoid urination 1-2 hours before urine samples.
• Inform your doctor about medications.

Steps Involved in Testing:

1. Sample collection (blood, urine or swab).
2. Lab analysis.
3. Report generation (usually within 24-72 hours).

Interpreting the Results

• Normal Results: No infection detected.
• Abnormal Results: Indicates infection; consult a specialist for treatment.

Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis of STDs

Causes

Common Causes are:

Cause	Explanation
Unprotected Sexual Activity	Engaging in sexual activity without protection like condoms increases the risk of transmission.
Sharing Needles	Using contaminated needles during drug use or medical procedures can spread bloodborne infections.
Maternal Transmission	Passing the infection from mother to child during childbirth is common with STDs like syphilis.

Symptoms:

Common symptoms are:

Symptom	Explanation
Painful Urination	Discomfort or burning sensation during urination, often caused by chlamydia or gonorrhoea.
Sores or Rashes	Blisters, sores, or rashes around the genital area, are often indicative of herpes or syphilis.
Unusual Discharge	Abnormal discharge from the genitals is a common sign of bacterial infections like trichomoniasis.

Diagnosis:

Common diagnoses involve:

Method	Explanation
Clinical Examination	A physical assessment by a healthcare professional to check for visible signs and symptoms.
Laboratory Tests	Includes blood, urine, or swab tests, often conducted as part of an STD panel test.