Who Should Be Tested for STDs and How Frequently?

Maintaining a healthy sex life plays a significant part in our physical and mental health. It also carries the risk of transmitting infections, with a startling statistic showing that one in five individuals contracts a sexually transmitted disease (STD) each year.

STDs, including infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, and syphilis, are usually manageable, and many can be treated if detected early. Regular testing can identify these infections even when they're symptomless. This is where we come in. 

At Tu Clinica in Arlington, Texas, we offer discreet and comprehensive STD testing to give you peace of mind if you should contract an infection. Let's learn why regular testing is important and who should get tested.

Why do we advocate for regular testing?

We advise all sexually active individuals to prioritize regular STD testing as part of caring for their sexual health. The risk of contracting an STD isn't limited to those with multiple partners or those who forego protection. 

Even if you use a condom or are in a monogamous relationship, it’s wise to integrate STD check-ups into your routine preventive healthcare.

Screening uncovers silent or symptomless STDs

Knowing your STD status is vital to stop infections from spreading. If you catch it early, treatment can prevent later health problems. And if you do find out you have an STD, let all your past and current partners know so they can check too. 

Some STDs can't be cured, but there are ways to manage outbreaks and keep your partners safe, making for a healthier sex life for everyone.

When to get tested for STDs

For individuals in a monogamous relationship, annual testing is sufficient. However, if you have multiple partners and don't use protection, more frequent testing is advisable. We can help you determine the most appropriate testing schedule based on your sexual activity and risk factors.

Couples in a stable relationship, who consistently test negative, can typically stop regular STD testing after several years. However, should you or your partner have sexual encounters outside the relationship, testing is recommended.

Male and female condoms are the only contraceptive methods that offer some protection against STDs. If you have infrequent sex and always use condoms, annual testing should suffice. If you've had unprotected sex or sex with a new partner, you should get tested.

If you've been sexually active in the past but have never tested for STDs, now is the time. Make it a priority before engaging in sexual activity again.

People at higher STD risk

While anyone can contract an STD, certain populations are at an increased risk. We advise all sexually active people under 25 to test at least once a year, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, or relationship status.

Individuals with multiple sexual partners, regardless of age, gender, or sexual orientation, should test every three to six months, especially if condoms are infrequently or never used.

If your current partner is diagnosed with an STD — irrespective of their treatment plan — you should test regularly.

Women who are pregnant, or intend to become pregnant soon, should undergo testing for STDs. Many STDs can pose a significant risk to an unborn child. Obstetrics providers typically recommend testing during the first trimester, with repeated testing throughout pregnancy if you continue to be sexually active, especially with new or multiple partners.

STD treatment is usually straightforward. Most common STDs are curable with antibiotics or other drugs. For incurable STDs, management strategies are usually effective enough to enable you to maintain a healthy sexual lifestyle.

We all have a role in maintaining our health and the health of those around us. Being proactive, informed, and considerate can transform a potentially difficult situation into a manageable one. 

Get tested, and take control of our sexual health. Contact Tu Clinica by calling or requesting a booking online to schedule your visit for STD testing.