Getting tested is easier, cheaper and more routine than many people expect, and it’s the only way to know where you stand. Chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV and syphilis can all go unnoticed for a long time, and some infections, if untreated, can cause lasting problems such as infertility.
What the CDC recommends
Testing advice depends on your age, your body and your sexual partners. Some of the main CDC recommendations:
- Everyone aged 13 to 64: at least one HIV test, and at least once a year if you have higher-risk exposures.
- Sexually active women under 25: chlamydia and gonorrhea testing every year.
- Women 25 and older: chlamydia and gonorrhea testing if you have risk factors such as a new partner or multiple partners.
- Gay and bisexual men and other men who have sex with men: syphilis, chlamydia and gonorrhea testing at least once a year, and more often with multiple or anonymous partners.
- Anyone who is pregnant: testing for syphilis, HIV and hepatitis B and C, among others.
A clinician can tailor this to you, including which body sites to test. Saying “I date casually and want to be tested regularly” is all it takes to start that conversation.
Protection that works
| Option | What it does |
|---|---|
| External or internal condoms | Lower the risk of HIV and many other STIs, and prevent pregnancy |
| PrEP | Daily pills or injections that greatly reduce the risk of getting HIV from sex when taken as prescribed |
| HPV vaccine | Recommended through age 26; adults 27 to 45 can decide with their clinician |
| Hepatitis B vaccine | Recommended for all adults aged 19 to 59, and for older adults with risk factors |
Talking about it with a new partner
It doesn’t need to be a big conversation. A few ways in:
- “Before things go further, when were you last tested? I was tested last month.”
- “I always use condoms with new partners. That work for you?”
- “I’m on PrEP, and I still like to use condoms. How about you?”
How someone responds is useful information. Most people appreciate a partner who takes health seriously.
Good move
Put testing on your calendar, every three, six or twelve months depending on your situation, so it happens without having to think about it.
Clear conversations about health are part of the same skill set as consent and communication. For the steps before any of this, see our first date checklist.
To keep in mind
- Many sexually transmitted infections have no symptoms, so testing is the only way to know your status.
- The CDC recommends at least one HIV test for everyone aged 13 to 64, and yearly chlamydia and gonorrhea testing for sexually active women under 25, among other guidance.
- Condoms lower the risk of many STIs, and PrEP is highly effective at preventing HIV when taken as prescribed.
- Talking about testing before sex is normal and shows respect for you both.
Asked often
Where can I get tested?
At your doctor’s office, a community health center, a Planned Parenthood health center or your local health department. The CDC’s locator at gettested.cdc.gov lists free and low-cost testing sites.
Do at-home test kits work?
The FDA has authorized at-home tests for HIV and for some other infections, including chlamydia and gonorrhea. A positive result should be confirmed and treated by a clinician.
How soon after sex should I get tested?
It depends on the infection; some take weeks to show up on a test. Tell the clinician when the possible exposure happened so they can time the tests.
This guide is general information, not medical, legal or professional advice. If you’re in danger, call 911. For confidential support, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or RAINN at 1-800-656-4673.
