Did you know more than a million people around the world get infected with sexually transmitted disease (STD) every year? According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), 374 million new infections were reported in 2020 with chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis being the most common infections. This makes it important for a person to check for an STD test every year to protect themselves. STD testing or regular check-ups ensure that any diseases you may have picked up are treated immediately. Regular STD testing also reduces the risk of spreading an infection to others. However, women may wonder when it is the safest to get an STD test done. One common question that many women have in mind is “Can you get an STD during your period?”

Here is everything you need to know about STD and if you can get STDs during your periods.

What is a sexually transmitted disease?

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), also known as STIs - sexually transmitted infections. “An STD is an infection that is primarily spread through sexual contact. This contact can include vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Various pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi cause STDs. Some STDs also have vertical transmission- mother to child. Some STDs get transmitted through infected needles,” says gynaecologist Dr Ritambhara Bhalla.

Sexually transmitted diseases cases are increasing every year. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

Types of STDs

Here are some common types of STDs or sexually transmitted diseases:

1. Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis. It is contracted by genital, anal, or oral sex with someone who has chlamydia. It can be transmitted to babies during their transit through the birth canal, found a study published in the Journal of American Medical Association.

2. Gonorrhoea

Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It is contracted by genital, anal, or oral intercourse with someone who has gonorrhoea. During childbirth, pregnant women might transmit gonorrhoea to their babies, according to a study published in the Journal of American Medical Association.

3. Syphilis

Syphilis is caused by Treponema pallidum. It is a widespread infection around the world, with an estimated 10-12 million new cases each year. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection, and the more sexual partners a person (or other members of their sexual network) has, the more likely they are to contract it, as per a study published in the British Medical Journal.

4. Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginae. Common symptoms for women include vaginal discharge (which can be clear, white, yellowish, or greenish), genital itching, lower abdomen pain, burning while urinating, and an unpleasant odour, as found in a study published in the Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care.

What is an STD test?

An STD test, often known as an STI test (sexually transmitted infection test), helps determine whether you have an infection acquired through intercourse with another person. These infections can occasionally spread without causing symptoms, so getting tested is the only way to be certain. The test requires a sample, such as pee in a cup, a vaginal swab, or a small amount of blood. This sample is then tested in a lab to see any evidence of infection, as found in a study published in the Medicinal Plus.

Is it possible to get STD during period?

Yes, it is possible to contract STDs during your period. Engaging in unprotected sex during menstruation does not reduce the risk of STD transmission. The presence of menstrual blood can sometimes increase the likelihood of transmission for certain infections due to changes in the vaginal environment and the potential presence of open sores or micro-abrasions, according to a study published in the Sexually Transmitted Disease Journal.

Can you get an infection from period blood?

“Period blood itself does not cause infections. However, if menstrual blood comes into contact with an open wound or mucous membranes, it can potentially transmit bloodborne pathogens like HIV or hepatitis if the person is infected. Additionally, poor menstrual hygiene can lead to bacterial infections such as bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections,” says the expert. However, more research is needed to prove the claim.

Can you test for STDs during your period?

“Yes, you can be tested for STDs while on your period. Menstrual blood does not typically interfere with the accuracy of STD tests. However, it is a good idea to inform your healthcare provider that you are menstruating, as they may have specific preferences or advice based on the type of test being conducted,” recommends the expert.

How to get STD tested on your period?

Here are some effective ways to get STDs tested on your periods, as suggested by the expert.

1. Blood test

A blood test involves a healthcare professional collecting blood from an arm vein using a tiny needle. The blood sample is then transferred to a test tube or vial for collection and testing. A provider may collect a blood sample to test for:

• Herpes
• Syphilis
• HIV (Human immunodeficiency virus)

2. Urine test

A urine test can help a doctor detect chlamydia, trichomoniasis, or gonorrhoea. Trichomoniasis is a parasitic sexually transmitted infection, whereas gonorrhoea is a bacterial STI. The provider will show you how to give a sterile urine sample for testing.

A urine test can help detect an STD. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

What happens to your period when you have an STD?

The presence of an STD can sometimes affect your menstrual cycle. Possible changes include, as explained by the expert.

• Irregular periods: STDs like chlamydia and gonorrhoea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), leading to an irregular menstrual cycle.
• Heavier or lighter bleeding: Some STDs can cause changes in the amount of menstrual bleeding.
• Increased pain: STDs can cause increased menstrual cramps or pelvic pain. Some women may also feel pain during intercourse.
• Abnormal discharge: Infections may lead to abnormal vaginal discharge that can be noticeable during menstruation.

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