Navigating STI Testing Part II: How Often Should You Really Get Tested?
(This post is part of an ongoing series for STI Awareness Month. I recommend starting with Part I: The Facts About Full Panel STI Testing)
In today’s post for National STI Awareness Month, let’s continue talking about STI testing. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) can cause serious health consequences, including chronic pain, infertility, and even death if left untreated. Testing is an essential step in the prevention and treatment of STIs, but how often should a person get tested? Today, we will explore the current recommendations for STI testing frequency, and I will share my personal recommendations.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that sexually active individuals get tested for STIs at least once a year, even if they do not have any symptoms. However, the frequency of testing may vary depending on the individual’s sexual behaviors and risk factors. For instance, people who have multiple sexual partners, engage in unprotected sex, or have a history of STIs should get tested more frequently, such as every 3-6 months. Pregnant individuals should also get tested for STIs early in their pregnancy to prevent serious health consequences for both the parent and the fetus.
Similarly, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends annual STI screening for sexually active adolescents and adults. They suggest that the frequency of testing may depend on the individual’s sexual behaviors and risk factors. For example, sexually active women under 25 years old should get tested for chlamydia and gonorrhea annually, regardless of their sexual behavior, due to the high prevalence of these STIs in this age group.
The World Health Organization (WHO) also recommends regular screening for all sexually active individuals, more frequent testing for those with more sexual partners, and early testing during pregnancy.
All three sources are in pretty strong agreement, and I concur with them. However, I want to offer more specific recommendations. Firstly, I recommend sexually active individuals get a standard “Full Panel” at least annually, including those in monogamous relationships. Some may resist this suggestion, thinking it implies mistrust of their partner. But it is crucial to remember that we only have control over ourselves. You know what you have done sexually, but you cannot control your partner’s actions. I have worked with too many people with new HIV diagnoses who were in monogamous relationships and did not know their partners were having sex with other people.
Secondly, if you are non-monogamous, whether polyamorous, in an open relationship, swinger, or just enjoying the single life, get tested more frequently. I generally recommend STI screenings every 3 months.
Thirdly, if you have a higher number of sexual partners, such as those engaged in full-service sex work, group sex parties, or frequenting bathhouses regularly, consider even more frequent testing, maybe even monthly, depending on your preferences. In general, getting tested more frequently is always safer from a risk-reduction perspective.
Fourthly, as recommended by the CDC, ACOG, and WHO, if you are planning to become pregnant, get a full panel of STI testing done early in your pregnancy. This quick checkup can significantly impact the health of yourself and your baby.
Getting tested for STIs is essential for maintaining sexual health and preventing the spread of infections. The recommended frequency of testing will vary based on your individual risk factors and behaviors, but at least annual testing is recommended for anyone who is sexually active. If you are concerned that you may be at higher risk, get tested more frequently. Beyond health reasons, knowing your STI status can relieve anxiety and lead to greater pleasure in your sex life. Consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate STI testing frequency for your individual needs. If you don’t feel comfortable talking with your healthcare provider about your sexual health, find one that makes you feel safe to have these conversations without shame or stigma.
References:
Workowski KA, Bolan GA; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Sexually transmitted diseases treatment guidelines, 2015. MMWR Recomm Rep. 2015;64(RR-03):1-137. PMID: 26042815.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2020). Committee Opinion No. 802: The Use of Telehealth in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 136(1), e1–e9. https://doi.org/10.1097/aog.0000000000003914
World Health Organization. (2016). Global health sector strategy on sexually transmitted infections 2016-2021. Retrieved from https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/246296/WHO-RHR-16.09-eng.pdf;jsessionid=E2DB28E1F703D45C7B8F4B4C7F4D105C?sequence=1
