How often does the military test for stds?

How Often Does the Military Test for STDs?

The military takes the health and well-being of its personnel very seriously, including testing for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). It’s essential to understand the military’s testing protocols and frequency to ensure the safety and health of service members, as well as the military’s overall readiness.

Frequency of STD Testing in the Military

The frequency of STD testing in the military varies depending on several factors, including the individual’s military occupational specialty (MOS), deployment status, and sexual activity. Here are some general guidelines on when and how often the military tests for STDs:

• New Recruits: All new recruits are required to undergo a physical examination, which includes a rapid plasma reagin (RPR) test for syphilis and a urinalysis to screen for chlamydia and gonorrhea.
• Deployed Service Members: Service members deployed to high-risk areas or involved in combat operations may be tested more frequently, every 3-6 months, for STDs, including HIV, chlamydia, and gonorrhea.
• Service Members with Risk Factors: Service members with high-risk behaviors, such as multiple sexual partners, engaging in unprotected sex, or having a history of STDs, may be tested more frequently, every 1-3 months.
• Service Members with Symptoms: Service members experiencing symptoms of an STD, such as unusual discharge, burning during urination, or genital sores, may be tested immediately.

Types of STD Testing

The military uses various testing methods to detect STDs, including:

• Blood Tests: Blood tests, such as the RPR test, are used to detect syphilis, HIV, and other blood-borne pathogens.
• Urine Tests: Urine tests are used to detect chlamydia and gonorrhea.
• Swab Tests: Swab tests are used to detect herpes, genital warts, and other STDs that require a swab sample.
• Physical Examinations: Physical examinations, including visual inspections of the genital area, are used to detect signs of STDs, such as unusual discharge, sores, or lesions.

Consequences of Not Testing

Failing to test for STDs can have serious consequences, including:

• Spread of Disease: Failing to test for STDs can lead to the spread of the disease to other service members, which can compromise unit readiness and overall military health.
• Health Risks: Untreated STDs can lead to serious health complications, including infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, and increased risk of HIV infection.
• Disciplinary Action: Failure to report STD symptoms or failing to undergo testing can result in disciplinary action, up to and including separation from the military.

Importance of Confidentiality

The military takes the confidentiality of STD testing results seriously. Service members who undergo STD testing are assured that their results will be kept confidential and will not affect their military career or personnel record.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the military takes the testing for STDs very seriously, with testing protocols in place to ensure the health and well-being of service members. Service members should be aware of the frequency and types of testing, as well as the consequences of not testing. By understanding the military’s STD testing protocols, service members can take proactive steps to protect their health and the health of their fellow service members.

Table: Frequency of STD Testing in the Military

References

• Department of Defense Instruction 6485.02: Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) Prevention and Control (2019)
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: STDs in the Military (2020)
• Military.com: How Often Do the Military Test for STDs? (2020)