The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends screening men for STDs only when symptoms are present or for men having sexual intercourse with other men. Symptoms of STDs in men generally include any sores, blisters or warts on the skin and any discharge from the penis. Testing for STDs may include swabbing and testing discharge or performing blood work. It is important to treat all cases of sexually transmitted diseases to prevent possible life-threatening complications in the future.
Gonorrhea
Step 1
Collect samples for any symptoms of gonorrhea. Gonorrhea may occur in the throat or the penis. Send all applicators and urine to the laboratory for analysis.
Step 2
Swab the throat with a sterile cotton-tipped applicator for symptoms of gonorrhea of the throat. The symptoms range from a sore throat to no symptoms at all. Test the throat after oral sex with an infected partner.
Step 3
Collect any discharge from the tip of the penis with a sterile cotton-tipped applicator. Insert the applicator approximately three-quarters of an inch into the opening and twist before removing. Symptoms of gonorrhea include a yellow discharge from the penis.
Step 4
Collect urine in a sterile cup to send to the lab for screening. Swab the penis before collecting the urine.
Syphilis
Step 1
Swab an open sore on the genitals with a sterile cotton-tipped applicator.
Step 2
Collect a blood sample to check for the virus.
Step 3
Send the blood to the lab for analysis.
HIV/AIDS
Step 1
Collect a blood sample to detect the virus in the body.
Step 2
Send the blood sample to the laboratory for analysis.
Step 3
Repeat testing several months later if results are negative.
Genital Herpes
Step 1
Scrape a score or culture a blister in the genital area for testing to see if the herpes virus is present.
Step 2
Collect a blood sample to detect the virus. According to the Mayo Clinic, the blood test may not provide accurate results.
Step 3
For best results, wait for a outbreak in sores before testing.
Tips and Warnings
- According to the Mayo Clinic, some at-home STD screening kits are available. After collecting the swabs and urine at home, the samples are sent to the lab. A confirmation from the doctor is necessary to receive proper treatment.
- No testing is available for STDs such as pubic lice and the human papillomavirus in men.
Things You'll Need
- Sterile cotton-tipped applicators
- Sterile urine collection cup
- Needle and vial for collecting blood
