Testing after partner’s infidelity
Dear Dr Mitchell,
If I suspect that my husband is cheating and I want to get tested, what specifically should I get tested for? Should I just go to a lab and tell them that I want to get tested for every STD, or are there specific ones that are recommended after infidelity?
I am truly sorry to hear that your husband has been unfaithful. The serious risk is that of contracting HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) especially if he did not use condoms with his sexual partner. There is also the risk of contracting syphilis, herpes simplex virus (HSV2), Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), gonorrhoea, chlamydia and trichomonaisis. Other less serious infections include bacterial vaginosis and candidiasis.
You should get a physical examination done and ask your doctor to do an endocervical swab. This must be sent to the lab for screening to rule out chlamydia, gonorrhoea, trichomonas, herpes simplex virus and bacterial vaginosis. A vaginal or cervical swab could also be done to screen for high-risk HPV infection. The HPV virus causes cervical cancer, and having multiple sexual partners increases the risk of contracting this virus. A blood test should be done to check for HIV, syphilis (VDRL) and also antibodies to herpes simplex type II.
Further, a Pap smear should also be done to screen for cervical cancer and changes due to HPV. Your husband should be screened for HIV and the other sexually transmitted infections. It is important for you to repeat the HIV test three months later, even if the initial test is negative to ensure that you are free from this infection.
The way forward is prevention.
Until you can be sure that your husband can be trusted, you should encourage him to use a condom at all times during sexual activity or you should use the female condom to protect yourself. Counselling is invaluable — especially if he continues this practice of infidelity. Consult your doctor who will advise you further.
Best wishes.
Dr Sharmaine Mitchell is an obstetrician and gynaecologist. Send questions via e-mail to allwoman@jamaicaobserver.com; write to All Woman, 40-42 1/2 Beechwood Ave, Kingston 5; or fax to 968-2025. All responses are published. Dr Mitchell cannot provide personal responses.
DISCLAIMER:
The contents of this article are for informational purposes only, and must not be relied upon as an alternative to medical advice or treatment from your own doctor.
