How Often Should I Get STI Testing? Examine Your Risk
It may make you uncomfortable to mention it: sexually transmitted infections (STIs). But there’s no reason to be embarrassed or hesitant to discuss your sexual history with us. After all, we recognize that your sexual health is a vital part of your overall wellness—and that includes when should you get STI testing.
As your leading OBGYN in Chapel Hill and Durham, we have helped hundreds of women overcome a variety of STIs, providing the non-judgemental treatment that they need and deserve. Remember that not all STIs show obvious symptoms, so it’s vital to have regular testing. If you’d like to schedule an appointment for STI testing, just contact us.
We’ll explain when you should get STI testing, how often, and what can place you at higher risk for developing an STI.
When Should You Get STI Testing?
You should have regular STI testing regardless of whether you’re showing signs of infection.
Remember, just because you don’t have any symptoms doesn’t mean you don’t have a sexually transmitted infection. A perfect example is trichomoniasis (“trich”). Roughly 70% of those with trich never develop any symptoms. As a result, they can unknowingly spread the infection. If symptoms do occur, they won’t appear until several days—or even up to a month– after exposure.
Therefore, we believe in consistent, regular testing. You should get tested at least once a year for chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis, as well as other STIs. However, if you have many sexual partners, or are at greater risk of developing an STI, you should be tested every three to six months. You should also have HIV testing every three to six months.
If you believe you have an STI or you’re showing symptoms, don’t delay in getting treatment. Untreated STIs can cause complications including infertility.
Who Should Get Regular STI Testing?
If you are sexually active, you could get an STI, although your risk of getting one depends upon several factors.
Those who should get regular STI testing include:
- Those with multiple sex partners (or one partner who has had multiple sex partners)
- Those having sex with a new partner
- Those with HIV
- Those with a previous history of STIs
- Those with symptoms
- Those with a partner who has an STI
- Sexually active women under 25
- Those who have not used condoms or other barrier protections
What If I’m in a Monogamous Relationship?
Exclusivity reduces–but not eliminates–your chances of getting an STI. Both you and your partner should be tested before entering a monogamous relationship. Afterward, yearly testing is advised—as long as you don’t have symptoms of an STI.
Which STIs Should You Get Tested For?
In general, you should have routine STI testing for diseases such as:
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Syphilis
- HIV
- Herpes
- Hepatitis
- Trichomoniasis
The Most Common STI Symptoms
There are more than 20 different types of STIs, and their symptoms vary. However, signs of an STI may typically include:
- Unusually foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- Pain while urinating
- Painful sex
- Itching
- Abdominal pain
- Fever
- Bleeding between periods
STIs: By the Numbers
STIs affect Americans of all genders and socioeconomic statuses. The Centers for Disease Control report the following statistics.
- In 2022, there were more than 2.5 million cases of syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia (the “clap”) in the U.S.
- There has been an 80% increase in the cases of syphilis in the past five years.
- Gonorrhea cases declined by 9%—the first drop in a decade.
The rise in syphilis cases have caused health officials to emphasize that STI prevention should be a public health priority. The syphilis statistics include cases of congenital syphilis. Congenital syphilis occurs when a mother transmits the disease to her baby.
In addition, North Carolina was ranked 8th in a list of the 10 states with the highest combined rates of three common STI infections.
The Most Common STIs
The most common STIs are:
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Syphilis
- Herpes
- Trichomoniasis (“trich”)
When Should You Get STI Testing? Our Healthcare Team Is Here to Guide You
STIs are incredibly common, and untreated STIs can eventually lead to serious complications, so it’s important that you and your partner are tested regularly.
We want you to know and understand that we are always here for you as your healthcare provider. Our strict confidentiality means that you can speak freely with us about any concerns you have about getting or treating STIs.
Is it time for you to get tested? Just contact us for an appointment today.
The information in this article and the other articles on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. If you have questions or concerns, please contact your healthcare provider.