Does the Military Check for STDs?
The United States military takes the health and well-being of its service members very seriously, and as part of the enlistment process, candidates undergo a series of medical examinations to ensure they are physically fit for duty. One aspect of this examination is the testing for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
What STDs Does the Military Test for?
The military tests for a range of STDs, including:
• Chlamydia: A bacterial infection that can cause discharge, pain, and swelling in the genital area.
• Gonorrhea: A bacterial infection that can cause symptoms such as discharge, burning while urinating, and pain in the genital area.
• Syphilis: A bacterial infection that can cause symptoms such as a sore or rash on the genitals, as well as fever, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes.
• Hepatitis B: A viral infection that can cause liver damage and scarring.
• HIV: A viral infection that can cause acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
How Does the Military Test for STDs?
The military uses a combination of physical examinations, laboratory tests, and medical histories to detect STDs. During the enlistment process, candidates are required to provide a detailed medical history, which includes information about their sexual activity and any previous STD diagnoses.
Physical examinations include:
• Visual inspection: A doctor or nurse practitioner visually examines the genital area for signs of STDs, such as unusual discharge, lesions, or rashes.
• Swab tests: A cotton swab is used to collect a sample from the genital area, which is then sent to a laboratory for testing.
• Blood tests: Blood samples are taken to test for STDs such as HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B.
What Happens if an STD is Detected?
If an STD is detected during the enlistment process, the individual will be notified and will likely be disqualified from service. In some cases, treatment may be recommended and the individual may be able to continue with the enlistment process.
If an STD is detected during service, the individual will be notified and will receive treatment as needed. In some cases, the individual may be required to be placed on a temporary medical profile or may be disqualified from duty.
What About Military Members Who are Already Diagnosed with an STD?
If a military member is already diagnosed with an STD, they are required to notify their command and receive treatment. Failure to do so can result in disciplinary action.
What About Military Members Who are in a Relationship?
The military recognizes that service members may be in relationships and encourages them to practice safe sex and get tested regularly. In fact, the military provides confidential testing and treatment for STDs, including HIV.
Conclusion
The military takes the detection and treatment of STDs very seriously, and service members are required to undergo testing as part of the enlistment process. The military tests for a range of STDs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, hepatitis B, and HIV. If an STD is detected, the individual will be notified and will likely be disqualified from service. The military also encourages service members to practice safe sex and get tested regularly, and provides confidential testing and treatment for STDs.
Additional Resources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): The CDC provides information on STDs, including symptoms, transmission, and treatment.
- Military Health System: The Military Health System provides information on STD testing and treatment, as well as confidential testing and treatment options for service members.
- Tricare: Tricare is the military’s health insurance program, and provides information on STD testing and treatment, as well as confidential testing and treatment options for service members and their families.
Table: STD Testing Requirements
STD | Testing Requirements |
---|---|
Chlamydia | Visual inspection, swab test |
Gonorrhea | Visual inspection, swab test |
Syphilis | Blood test, visual inspection |
Hepatitis B | Blood test |
HIV | Blood test |
Bullets: Additional Tips for Military Members
• Practice safe sex: Use condoms and other forms of protection to reduce the risk of STD transmission.
• Get tested regularly: Get tested for STDs regularly, especially if you are in a relationship.
• Be honest: Be honest about your sexual activity and any previous STD diagnoses.
• Seek treatment: If you are diagnosed with an STD, seek treatment promptly and follow-up with your doctor or nurse practitioner as recommended.