Our Men's Large Sexual Health Package Explained
What are the tests in the Men's Large Sexual Health Package?
Our Men's Large Sexual Health Package is designed to provide a more comprehensive STI screening, covering seventeen key infections that can impact reproductive and overall health. These tests are particularly relevant in South Africa, where STI prevalence is high, and early detection is essential for effective treatment and prevention of complications. With no blood draw required! Simply swab yourself at our Walk-In lab and take control of your sexual health today.
Below is a breakdown of each test, including its purpose and why testing is important:
Full package: R1925
1. Haemophilus ducreyi (Chancroid)
What is it? A bacterial infection that causes painful genital ulcers, known as chancroid.
Why it matters in South Africa: Although less common than other STIs, chancroid is still present in parts of South Africa and can increase HIV transmission risk.
2. Mycoplasma genitalium
What is it? A bacterial STI that can cause urethritis (inflammation of the urethra), epididymitis, and prostatitis.
Why it matters in South Africa: Mycoplasma genitalium is increasingly resistant to antibiotics, making early diagnosis essential for effective treatment.
3. Mycoplasma hominis
What is it? A bacterium that is part of the normal genital flora but can cause urethritis, infertility, and complications in pregnancy.
Why it matters in South Africa: Often found in co-infections with other STIs, it is important to test for when symptoms such as pelvic pain or discharge occur.
4. Neisseria gonorrhoeae (Gonorrhoea)
What is it? A bacterial infection that affects the urethra, rectum, and throat, commonly referred to as “the clap.”
Why it matters in South Africa: Gonorrhoea is one of the most common STIs, and with rising antibiotic resistance, early detection is key to preventing complications such as infertility and chronic pain.
5. Treponema pallidum (Syphilis)
What is it? The bacterium responsible for syphilis, a multi-stage STI that can cause sores, rashes, and severe organ damage if untreated.
Why it matters in South Africa: Syphilis rates are increasing, and the infection can remain asymptomatic for years, leading to serious health risks if undiagnosed.
6. Ureaplasma urealyticum
What is it? A bacterium that can cause urethritis, prostatitis, and complications in pregnancy.
Why it matters in South Africa: This infection is often undiagnosed because symptoms overlap with other STIs, making screening essential for early treatment.
7. Trichomonas vaginalis (Trichomoniasis)
What is it? A parasitic STI that can cause urethritis, irritation, and genital discomfort.
Why it matters in South Africa: Many men are asymptomatic, but the infection can increase the risk of HIV transmission and cause chronic irritation.
8/9. Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2 (HSV-1 & 2)
What is it? HSV-1 is mainly linked to oral herpes, while HSV-2 causes genital herpes, both leading to blisters, pain, and recurrent outbreaks.
Why it matters in South Africa: HSV-2 is highly prevalent, and both types can increase susceptibility to HIV, making early diagnosis important for management and prevention.
10. Chlamydia trachomatis
What is it? A bacterial STI that infects the urethra, rectum, and throat, often without symptoms.
Why it matters in South Africa: Chlamydia is a leading cause of infertility and often goes undetected, making routine screening essential.
11. Enterococcus faecalis
What is it? A bacterium that can cause urinary tract infections (UTIs) and prostatitis.
Why it matters in South Africa: It is often found in men with persistent urogenital symptoms and may require specific antibiotics for treatment.
12. Candida species (Candidiasis/Thrush)
What is it? A fungal infection that causes itching, irritation, and inflammation in the genital area.
Why it matters in South Africa: Candida infections are common in men with weakened immunity or diabetes and can be transmitted sexually.
13. Gardnerella vaginalis
What is it? A bacterium associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV) in women, but it can also infect men, causing urethritis and discomfort.
Why it matters in South Africa: While more commonly tested in women, men can carry and transmit this infection without symptoms.
14. Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
What is it? A viral STI responsible for genital warts and cancers, including penile and throat cancer.
Why it matters in South Africa: HPV is one of the most widespread STIs, and certain high-risk strains can cause cancer, making testing essential.
15. Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B Strep – GBS)
What is it? A bacterium that can cause urinary and reproductive infections in men.
Why it matters in South Africa: While more common in women, GBS can lead to complications in men, particularly those with weakened immune systems.
16. Chlamydia trachomatis
What is it? A bacterial STI that infects the urethra, rectum, and throat, often without symptoms.
Why it matters in South Africa: Chlamydia is a leading cause of infertility and often goes undetected, making routine screening essential.
17. Prevotella bivi
What is it? A bacterium commonly linked to bacterial vaginosis, but also found in male urogenital infections.
Why it matters in South Africa: It is associated with chronic inflammation of the urethra and prostate and may be linked to co-infections with other STIs.
Book with Epicentre
For 20 years Epicentre has been studying wellness in South Africa. We are a company founded on a vision, ending disease in South Africa! So we believe in making an IMPACT.
We are an independent organization that is committed to creating a positive impact on health & wellness for all in South Africa. We want to close the gap between unscreened, undiagnosed, and uncontrolled HIV & COVID-19 infections as well as other chronic diseases for all South Africans.
By booking your tests with Epicentre, you are supporting a real local company that has worked for 20 years in all 9 provinces, from Pollsmoor prison to Constantia; & you’re getting a gold standard service that experts trust!
