Sexual Health Testing

This page shares information and resources on sexual health testing. You’re invited to draw on this information as you create your messaging!

Sexual Health Testing 101

Sexually transmitted infections (STI) and sexually transmitted diseases (STD) are interchangeable terms that talk about the same thing: infections that get passed from one person to another during sexual contact. We encourage the use of STI rather than STD because “infection” is more accurate and less stigmatizing than “disease.” Most of the time, STIs never get to the disease stage and they can often be treated or cured with medicine before causing long-term harm.

STI vs. STD

Sexual health testing is a way to care for your body and involves checking for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and other aspects of reproductive health.

What is STI Testing?

Most STIs are asymptomatic, meaning they do not cause noticeable symptoms. Even without symptoms, untreated STIs can lead to long-term health issues, such as infertility and cervical cancer. Common asymptomatic STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, HPV, and early stage HIV. Routine testing is the most reliable way to detect asymptotic STIs.

Testing is the only way to truly know

Testing options

Multiple testing options exist based on the needs and comfort of the individual:

Self-collection test kits allow you to check your sexual health in your own space and on your own time! Kits primarily test for chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, syphilis, hepatitis C, and trichomoniasis using home-collected urine, blood, or swabs sent to labs. If you receive your testing kit from a clinic you may be asked to drop your sample off at a local clinic or lab for testing.

Home Testing is when you collect, test and get results without having to see a professional (ex: COVID-19). The only at home STI test currently available is the HIV self-test which provides results in 20 minutes using a saliva sample. Rapid tests are over 99% accurate but generally require a 18–90 day window period after exposure to detect infection.

Health clinics offer a wide range of STI tests using blood, urine, or swab samples. Results are often available within a few days, though some clinics offer same day point of care testing. Clinics can also provide treatment, follow-up care, and support!

Most Common STI/STDs

  • HIV

    Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that weakens the immune system, and without treatment, can progress to AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome).

    During the early stages of HIV infection, people may notice typical flu like symptoms, such as a fever, sore throat, muscle aches and swollen lymph notes. However, some people do not show any symptoms during the early stages.

    Although HIV cannot be cured, medication has transformed HIV into a manageable condition and people living with HIV can live long, healthy lives.

    To learn more about antiretroviral medications (ART) for HIV, click here.

    To learn more about PrEP, a medication taken to prevent HIV, click here.

  • Chlamydia

    Chlamydia is a common STI caused by a bacterial infection. Many people with chlamydia do not have symptoms and may not realize they have it.

    Chlamydia is easily treated with antibiotics but can lead to more serious problems if left untreated, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility and pregnancy complications.

  • Gonorrhea

    Gonorrhea is a common and curable STI caused by a bacterial infection. Many people, particularly people with a uterus, show no symptoms or mistake symptoms as a urinary tract infection or yeast infection.

    Gonorrhea can be easily cured with antibiotics; however, if left untreated, it can lead to more serious health issues such as pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility.

  • Trichomoniasis

    Trichomoniasis is a common STI caused by a tiny parasite that spreads through sexual contact.

    Trichomoniasis is easily treated with oral antibiotics. Without treatment, trichomoniasis can increase the risk of getting or spreading other STIs, including HIV, and can lead to inflammation of the cervix and the urethra.

  • Syphilis

    Syphilis is a common STI caused by a bacterial infection and is easily curable, especially if detected in its early stages. Syphilis starts as a sore, typically on the genitals, rectum or mouth, that is often painless. Syphillis spreads through sexual contact with these sores.

    Syphilis can stay in the body for many years without showing symptoms. If left untreated, the bacteria remains in the body and can permanently damage the heart, brain or other organs.

  • HPV

    Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common STI and is spread through skin-to-skin contact. You do not have to have sexual intercourse to catch HPV.

    HPV does not have any symptoms, so the majority of people don’t know they have it. While most people with HPV will not experience any health issues, if the virus does not resolve, it can lead to more serious health issues like infertility or cancer. Some people experience HPV-related genital warts or lesions.

Sexual Health and Testing Resources