How often should I get tested for STIs?
It’s essential to get tested for STIs every 3 to 6 months. Regular testing helps prevent infections and ensures that if you do test positive, you can seek treatment promptly.
Staying on top of your testing schedule allows you to feel confident about your sexual health so you can continue cruising and hooking up safely.
When should I get tested?
While regular testing is important, it becomes even more crucial if you experience any symptoms. Common symptoms to be aware of include:
- Pain or burning sensation during urination or bowel movements
- Unusual discharge from your anus, penis, or vagina/front hole
- Fever
- Sores in your mouth or on your genitals
What does the testing process involve?
When you visit a clinic or healthcare provider for testing, you may need to provide a urine sample, swab your anus (if you’re bottoming), and swab your throat (if you’re giving oral sex). A blood test may also be part of the process.
What should I ask my healthcare provider for?
It can feel a bit awkward to ask for tests, but being straightforward is important. Here are some common STIs to request testing for:
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Hepatitis C
- HIV (if you’re HIV-negative or unsure of your status)
- Syphilis
Make sure to be open with your healthcare provider about your sex life. This can help them recommend any additional tests or vaccines that may be relevant to your sexual health.
Can I test at home?
If visiting a clinic isn’t your preference, there are self-test programs available in many areas that allow you to receive an HIV and/or STI test by mail. This gives you the flexibility to test at your convenience in a comfortable setting.
What if I test positive?
Receiving a positive result can feel concerning, but it’s a normal part of having an active sex life. Here are some resources to help you communicate with your sex partners about any positive results:
- TellYourPartner.org (U.S. and Canada)
- LetThemKnow.org.au (Australia)
- SXT (U.K.) - This service is used by your healthcare provider to assist in notifying your partners anonymously.
For more detailed information on testing, click here.