News
STI Testing: A Smart (And Normal!) Choice for Your Sexual Health
April 01, 2025
Taking Charge of your Sexual Health
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a common part of sexual health, yet stigma and misconceptions still prevent many people from getting tested regularly. But when it comes to taking care of your health, regular STI testing is just as important as an annual physical, a dental check-up, or staying up to date on vaccines. STI testing is a normal and essential part of maintaining overall well-being—especially for college students who are sexually active. This STI Awareness Month, prioritize your sexual health and get yourself tested!
Why Testing Regularly is a Smart Choice
Many STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HPV, can be asymptomatic for months or even years. This means someone can have an STI without realizing it, potentially putting themselves and their partners at risk. Early detection through testing not only protects your health but also prevents unknowingly passing an infection to a partner.
Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that young adults aged 15–24 account for nearly half of all new STI cases in the U.S. This statistic underscores the importance of proactive testing, especially for college students who may be engaging in new or multiple sexual relationships.
Stigmas and Misconceptions Around STI Testing
One of the biggest barriers to STI testing is the stigma attached to it. Many people associate STIs with promiscuity, poor hygiene, or irresponsibility—while STIs are simply infections, just like the flu or a cold, and can affect anyone who is sexually active.
Common misconceptions include:
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“I would know if I had an STI.” Many infections do not show symptoms, which is why routine testing is essential.
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“I’m in a committed relationship, so I don’t need to get tested.” Even in monogamous relationships, testing is important, as some STIs can remain dormant for long periods.
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“Getting tested means, I must have done something wrong.” Testing is a sign of responsibility and self-care, not a reflection of one’s character.
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“I’m on birth control, so I’m protected.” While condoms can help to prevent STIs, they are not always 100% effective. Other birth control methods like the pill, patch, ring, and IUD do not protect against STIs and HIV.
Normalizing STI Testing as a regular part of health check-ups helps to combat the stigma, advance sexual health, and stop the spread of STIs!
How Often Should You Get Tested?
The CDC recommends that sexually active individuals follow these general guidelines:
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Everyone ages 13 to 64 years should be tested at least once for HIV.
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At least once a year for chlamydia and gonorrhea if you are under 25.
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Before entering a new sexual relationship to ensure both partners are informed.
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More frequently if you have multiple partners or engage in higher-risk sexual behaviors.
Other key facts about testing:
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All STIs, even HIV, are treatable and most are curable. The sooner you get tested, the sooner you can protect your health and partners!
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STI tests are quick, simple, and usually painless. Most STI tests consist of a urine test, cheek swab, blood test, or swab of sores.
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Not all medical checkups include STI testing. Unless you ask to be tested, you cannot assume you have been. Ask your medical provider which STIs you should be tested for.
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Talk to your partner about when you were last tested and suggest getting tested together. And if you have an STI, tell your partner. These conversations may seem hard to have, but open communication with your partner is essential to staying healthy and stopping the spread of STIs. These conversations may also bring you closer together. Here are some tips to help you start the conversation.
On-Campus STI Testing
There is no reason for STI testing to feel awkward or stressful. GVSU’s Center for Health and Well-being offers free, confidential STI testing and resources to help you feel comfortable and stay informed. This STI Awareness Month, take the step to prioritize your sexual health by stopping by one of our STI testing locations. It’s a small step that leads to a healthier you!
On-campus testing is:
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Walk-in testing. No appointment necessary
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Free and confidential
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Urine sample or vaginal swab for chlamydia or gonorrhea. No HIV testing.
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Provided by Ottawa and Kent County Depts. Of Public Health Clinical Staff
Allendale Campus
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2nd Wednesday of each month September-April
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Holton-Hooker Living Center Multipurpose Room, 3:00-7:30pm
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Wednesday, April 9, 2025
Health Campus, Downtown Grand Rapids
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560 DCIH, 1:00-4:00pm
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April 1st
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April 15th
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April 29th
Read more about on-campus STI testing and resources here.
Other testing locations: You can find confidential testing near you that is free or low cost by going to the Get Yourself Tested website.