Getting Tested: Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can cause serious health problems. Take note though, STD is the only one that comes with signs and symptoms. This means it’s possible to contract STI and not know it! It’s vital to both use protection and get an STD test or STI test after each new sexual partner.

With that, it might also be necessary to make sure your partner/s get tested too. There’s still a lot of stigma and misinformation around sexual health, and not everyone is comfortable talking openly about it. While it’s not the easiest nor the sexiest conversation to have, it’s important to talk about getting tested before you do the deed.

Bringing Up The Subject STD & STI

Whether you’re about to engage in a casual hook-up or having sex for the first time, it’s normal to feel nervous asking about someone’s testing status. If you’re worried about “killing the mood” or appearing presumptuous, just remember: this is your health we’re talking about! Sexually transmitted infections and diseases are a serious matter. Avoiding an awkward conversation is never as important as keeping yourself safe.

STIs aren’t transmitted every time you have sex, it’s possible to have sex with someone multiple times and not catch an STI from them until the nth time. So if you’ve already had sex with someone but neither of you has broached the subject, it’s still not too late to insist on getting an STI test or STD test before you do it again. We all agree that asking your partner to get tested is important. But how do you do it? Dima has some tips that might help:

• Be direct. It can help if you imagine how you’d want the topic to be brought up to you. If you don’t know where to start, try something like: “When was the last time you got an STI test or STD test? I think we should get tested before we have sex .” If you’ve been tested, it might help them feel at ease if you mention your results. Let them know you’re taking their safety seriously and expect the same from them.
• Stand your ground, even if you’re worried. It’s normal to worry that the conversation might ruin the mood or hurt their feelings. But you know you’re doing the right thing, and that’s important. It’s more concerning to be with someone offended at the idea of being responsible with their and your body than to potentially offend them with the idea of testing for STI and STD.
• Be patient. If you’re nervous talking about this, your partner probably is too. Give them time to process your words and respond. This doesn’t mean you agree to get tested later and have sex anyway— don’t do that! Give them a moment to absorb everything before killing the conversation. Again, STI and STD are no easy topics.

It’s safest not to assume every partner will volunteer their sexual information unprompted. Be proactive! Even if you’re afraid of making them uneasy, talk about getting tested. Your wellbeing should always trump their discomfort.