STD/STI
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Cross Street Medical Clinic offers all relevant STD/STI screening tests and treatments. Speak to our doctors today about what you may need. Female doctors are available by appointment. We ensure patient privacy and confidentiality for all discussions, tests and treatments.
What is an STD/STI?
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections that are commonly spread by sex, especially through vaginal, anal and oral sex.
STDs may also be called sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and venereal diseases (VD).
How do we contract STD/STI?
It is advisable to do testing:
• After casual sex with a stranger
• After ending a sexual relationship where the other partner was unfaithful
• If your partner tests positive for an STD/STI
• When starting a new sexual relationship or before starting unprotected sex in a new relationship
• When there are multiple sexual partners; at the minimum, yearly screening is recommended
• If symptoms of STD/STI are present (see below)
The most well-documented risks of transmission are:
| Sexual activity | STD/STI transmitted |
| Vaginal intercourse | Chlamydia Crabs Scabies Gonorrhoea Hepatitis B Herpes HIV HPV Mycoplasma hominis infection Syphilis Trichomoniasis Ureaplasma infection |
| Anal intercourse | Chlamydia Crabs Scabies Gonorrhoea Hepatitis B Herpes HIV HPV Syphilis |
| Oral intercourse | Throat chlamydia Throat Gonorrhoea Herpes Syphilis |
How can we tell that we may have STD/STI?
Common symptoms include:
- Vaginal discharge
- Penile discharge
- Pain during urination
- Rashes, including blisters, ulcers and sores on or around the genitals and mouth
- Painful or painless lymph nodes
How do we prevent infection and re-infection?
- Avoiding high risk sex, including commercial sex workers, casual sex and multiple sex partners
- Using condoms, including during oral sex
- Being in a long-term monogamous relationship with a partner who has tested negative for HIV and other STD/STI.
What Are Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)?
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), also commonly referred to as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), are infections that are spread through unprotected vaginal, oral or anal sex.
STIs can be caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites. Some of the more common infections include chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, Trichomonas, HIV, genital herpes, hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
Some of these infections have noticeable symptoms, while others may not have symptoms for months to years. Therefore, you may be infected without realising it.
What are The Common STD Symptoms in Men and Women
Symptoms of sexually transmitted infections will vary depending on the type and location of infection.
You should see a doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:
Common STD symptoms in men may include:
- Discharge from the penis
- Pain or burning sensation when passing urine
- Sores, ulcers or rashes in the genital area
- Pain or swelling of the testicles
Common STD symptoms in women may include:
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Pain or burning when passing urine
- Pelvic pain or lower abdominal discomfort
- Bleeding between menstrual periods
Some people will experience symptoms; for others, there may be none.
For this reason, screening should be considered if there has been a high-risk sexual exposure.
How Are STIs Transmitted?
Sexually transmitted infections are usually spread through unprotected sexual contact (no condom) with an infected person. Transmission can occur through:
- Vaginal intercourse
- Oral sex
- Anal sex
- Contact with infected bodily fluids
Certain infections can also be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact from affected areas.
When Should You Consider STD Testing?
STD testing should be considered in several situations, including:
- After unprotected sexual contact (no condom, condom broke)
- When experiencing symptoms such as discharge, sores, or pain when passing urine
- If a sexual partner has tested positive for an infection
- When starting a new sexual relationship
- As part of routine sexual health screening when sexually active, particularly when relationships are non-exclusive
A doctor can give professional medical advice on whether testing is needed based on individual circumstances.
What Happens During STD Testing and Medical Consultation?
Testing for sexually transmitted infections begins with a medical consultation to assess the type of exposure, explain the risks and recommend suitable tests.
Testing may involve:
- Blood tests
- Urine tests
- Swab samples
The recommended tests will vary depending on symptoms and risk factors.
Individuals seeking testing can also discuss screening options with the doctor.
👉 You may also learn more about available screening options here:
STD/STI Screening Services
What Is STD Screening in Singapore?
Sexual health screening services are available through both public healthcare institutions and private medical clinics in Singapore.
Cross Street Medical Clinic is a private medical clinic which provides medical consultation and screening tests for patients with sexual health concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions About STD Screening
Some of these infections have noticeable symptoms, while others may not have symptoms for months to years. Therefore you may be infected without realising it.
This is why screening may be considered even if a person feels well.
Diagnosis by laboratory testing, through blood tests, urine tests, or swab samples, depending on the type and location of infection being tested.
Treatment depends on the type of infection. Bacterial and parasitic infections are treated with antibiotic medication, while viral infections may require anti-viral medication or referral to a specialist for treatment.
You should consult a doctor if you have any symptoms, have a high risk sexual exposure, or would like to discuss screening.
Medical Information Review
This page has been prepared for general patient education and should not replace a consultation with a doctor.
Reviewed by:Â Dr Reginald Tang
Clinic:Â Cross Street Medical Clinic
Last reviewed:Â 10 Mar 2026
Conveniently located near Chinatown MRT in Singapore, Cross Street Medical Clinic provides comprehensive healthcare services for professionals, residents, and businesses in Chinatown, Raffles Place, and Shenton Way. Whether you need discreet STD screening, general health check-ups, vaccinations, or chronic disease management, our experienced doctors ensure quality care with minimal waiting time.Â