HIV Screening vs. STD Testing: What’s the Difference?
Many people use the terms HIV screening and STD testing interchangeably, but they refer to different aspects of sexual health. Understanding how they differ can help you decide which type of test you may need and when to visit a HIV clinic or STD clinic in Singapore for appropriate assessment.
Understanding HIV Screening
What Is HIV Screening?
HIV screening refers to medical tests used to detect the presence of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in the body. Screening can help identify an infection early, even before symptoms appear.
Common types of HIV tests include:
-
Antibody tests
– These detect antibodies that the body produces in response to the virus.
-
Antigen/antibody combination tests
– These look for both antibodies and parts of the virus itself.
-
Nucleic acid tests (NATs)
– These identify the virus’s genetic material (RNA) directly.
Each test type has its own testing window — the period between potential exposure and when the virus becomes detectable. Your doctor can advise which test is most suitable based on your circumstances and timing of exposure.
When to Consider HIV Screening
You may wish to consider HIV screening if you have had potential exposure through unprotected sexual contact, sharing of needles, or other high-risk activities. Routine screening is also recommended for individuals with multiple partners or those who engage in higher-risk sexual behaviours.
Early detection allows for prompt medical follow-up and access to care, reducing the risk of transmission to others.
Understanding STD Testing
What Is STD Testing?
STD (sexually transmitted disease) or STI (sexually transmitted infection) testing checks for infections transmitted primarily through sexual contact. These include:
-
Chlamydia
-
Gonorrhoea
-
Syphilis
-
Hepatitis B and C
-
Herpes simplex virus (HSV)
-
Human papillomavirus (HPV)
-
Trichomoniasis
Testing may involve urine samples, swabs, or blood tests depending on the infection being checked.
When to Visit an STD Clinic
You may consider visiting an STD clinic if you experience symptoms such as genital discomfort, discharge, sores, rashes, or pain during urination. However, not all infections cause visible symptoms — regular screening is encouraged for sexually active individuals, even in the absence of symptoms.
Testing can help identify infections early and allow for timely management under medical supervision.
Key Differences Between HIV Screening and STD Testing
| ASPECT | HIV SCREENING | STD TESTING |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Detects HIV, the virus that can lead to AIDS if untreated |
Detects a range of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
|
| Testing Method | Blood or saliva tests detecting antibodies, antigens, or RNA | Blood, urine, or swab samples depending on infection |
| Window Period | Varies by test type (from 10 days to 3 months) | Depends on infection; some detectable within days, others weeks |
| Frequency | Recommended annually or after potential exposure | Depends on sexual activity and risk factors |
| Result Implications | Positive results require confirmatory testing and medical follow-up | Positive results usually mean an active infection requiring treatment |
HIV is a specific virus, whereas STDs cover a broader category of infections. Both types of testing are important components of sexual health.
Where to Get Tested in Singapore?
Individuals seeking confidential and reliable screening may visit a HIV clinic or STD clinic in Singapore for appropriate testing and care. These clinics provide consultations, testing, and follow-up management tailored to different sexual health concerns.
Getting Tested in Singapore with Dr Tan Medical Center
At Dr Tan Medical Center, consultations and testing are overseen by Dr Tan Kok Kuan, who has dedicated his practice to the fields of STD, HIV, and Men’s Health.
Dr Tan Kok Kuan
- MBBS (S’pore), Cert. Men’s Health, Cert. Clinical Dermatology
- Member, Academy for Men’s Health (Singapore)
- Member, Singapore Association for the Study of Obesity
- Member, International Society of Sexual Medicine
- Member, The American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine
- SCOPE Certified
Dr Tan Kok Kuan graduated from the National University of Singapore in 2001 and trained in Tan Tock Seng Hospital and Singapore General Hospital. During the SARS outbreak, he served in the SGH SARS taskforce caring for affected patients. His clinical training also included postings at the Singapore National Eye Centre, National Heart Centre, and National Skin Centre.
Following his public sector experience, Dr Tan established Robertson Medical Practice, later appointed by the Ministry of Health as an official Anonymous Testing Site for HIV. This clinic evolved into the DTAP (Dr Tan & Partners) Group of Clinics, where he served as Group CEO before stepping down in 2020 to focus on patient care and ongoing research in STD/HIV and Men’s Health.
Dr Tan has contributed to Singapore’s National HIV PrEP Guidelines and the national Blueprint to end AIDS and HIV Transmission by 2030. He continues to be active in medical education, presenting at professional conferences and contributing to peer-reviewed medical journals.
Patients who wish to learn more about HIV or STD testing can book a consultation with Dr Tan for a confidential assessment and medical advice tailored to their needs.
