Don’t be afraid – testing is vital

AS a GP, I’m very familiar with the rise of sexually transmitted infections in this age group.

By their 50s, most women have a comfortable relationship with their doctor, having gone through decades of smear tests, contraceptive discussions and necessary intimate examinations. I’d hope most patients would feel able to discuss a possible STI, too. However, from experience, the discussion begins with the patient complaining of pain or a discharge – it’s then GPs who have to broach the subject of new relationships and unsafe sex. It’s no different from the discussion I would have with someone in their 20s. But, as Rowan Pelling describes, many people are starting new relationships after divorce and are not as aware as their adult children about sexual health and safety. Q Can my GP check for all STIs? A In most areas, a GP clinic is able to do all the STI screening

that would be needed, such as urine tests, genital swabs and bloods tests. Local sexual health clinics offer the same service – and can have the added benefit of more extensive or same-day testing, more convenient opening hours and anonymity. Q Will staff at the surgery know if I get tested or diagnosed with an STI? A GP surgeries, of course, operate confidentiality, but I can understand the possible reticence about getting tested there. However, trust me when I say that GPs, receptionists and nurses do not think twice about anyone of any age having an STI check. We have seen and heard it all before, and no one should feel embarrassed. Q If it’s not an STI, what could be causing my symptoms? A Pain, urinary symptoms or discharge can be warning signs of other conditions such as prostate trouble in men, or gynaecological issues or cancer in women. This is why it’s vital to get checked.