Ask Kate
Hi! I’m Kate, IDENTIGENE’s online laboratory liaison. Already famous (at least kind of) for helping when you have ‘questions only DNA can answer,’ I’m excited to start talking about the new Identigene STD Test.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that at least 2 million people in the US are infected every year with chlamydia or gonorrhea – and more than half probably don’t even know it because these diseases often don’t show any symptoms until long after infection. Since these diseases spread easily and can lead to irreversible damage, it’s important to get tested regularly, especially if you’ve recently changed partners or have multiple partners.
It’s all about awareness and responsibility which means, if you’re sexually active and not in a monogamous relationship, it’s about you.
IDENTIGENE is here to help – and so am I. Visit our site for simple instructions on using our test kit. Visit our frequently asked questions pages to learn more about STDs and STD testing. And, of course, you can always ‘ask Kate’ (that’s me) any of your STD test questions either here, or on twitter @askate.
“Ask Kate” is not a medical professional. Comments and posts do not constitute medial advice. (See Blog Disclaimer for full disclosure.)
what is a brown discharge
When discussing STD symptoms “brown discharge” refers to a brown in color discharge from the genitals or rectum.
Changes in the smell, color or amount of discharge are one of the symptoms of STD infection. (http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/std-symptoms/ID00053).
how long after having sex can you find out that u have a std? and if you do is there an over the counter drug to get rid of it?
Hi Beverly,
After the time of infection, you want to get tested anywhere from one week to 90 days after, depending on the STD. There are no over-the-counter treatments, everything requires a visit to a doctor so they can give the right treatment for the right STD.
Is this test approved by the FDA? I saw a letter on 11/4 indicating that they had not received a clearance number.
Thanks for your question Jennifer. We received the letter and further clarification about the Identigene STD Test Kit. In a conference call with the FDA, Dr. Alberto Gutierrez, Office Director of the Office of In Vitro Diagnostics, stated that the FDA has not evaluated the Identigene STD test kit, but saw no safety concerns that would warrant removing the product from the shelf; subsequently, the FDA is exercising ‘enforcement discretion’, which allows the product to remain on the market while Identigene works in good faith to obtain FDA clearance.
All concerned recognize that an OTC option, like the Identigene STD Test Kit, helps raise awareness of STDs, increases frequency of testing, and encourages earlier treatment. As the FDA has suggested, we will continue to make STD testing more accessible and convenient for everyone while we await formal FDA approval.
I hope this answers your question. You might also be interested in the test specification details located here: http://www.identigene.com/std-testing/std-testing/std-test-limitations.php.
I have a rash in my hair line and it is itchy been about two weeks sence I had one night stand
Hello John,
Because STDs have different types of symptoms, if you believe you could have been infected (especially if your one night stand was unprotected) please get tested!!! Taking care of your sexual health is too important to ignore.
IS IT POSSIBLE FOR A MAN TO HAVE PAPILOMA VIRUS IN HIS THROAT? IF SO WHAT TEST DO I NEED?
Hi Orlando,
The answer is yes, it is common in some populations. You need to go see a physician. There are no screening tests available for this.
i slept with someone with a condom and had no oral sex just kissing and protected sex then later he told me he found out he had chlamydia does that mean i have it too eventhough we had protected sex?
Hi Victoria,
Condoms are very helpful in protecting yourself from STDs or STIs. However, they are not 100% protective. Because your partner has chlamydia also does not mean that you will absolutely get it, but it’s a good idea to get tested just to be on the safe side. STDs can cause other serious health issues so it’s very important to take care of your sexual health. Take care of yourself and get tested…just to be safe.
Hi, I have a Little red bump on where my hair is around the penis and it is just starting to irritate and blood just came out today from it.I am wondering is there any idea what it is?
Hi Vincent,
From what you have described the red bump could be an ingrown hair, however, I would recommend seeing a doctor for verification.
hi Kate
do you have false positive ratio for STD tests.if yes please how much %?
and also what are the specificity ratio % for both tests…
Hi Osi,
I am not sure I understand your question fully, but I would recommend taking a look at our Specifications page on our website at http://www.identigene.com/std-testing/std-testing/std-test-limitations.php.
If you still have questions please feel free to email me directly at ashaw@identigene.com.
Thank you.