As the rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continue to rise, it’s important to know the best practices for STI testing. While you might not think about getting an STI test until you notice symptoms like genital discharge or painful urination, following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for STI testing is the best way to keep yourself and your partners healthy. If you’re wondering how soon you should get tested for STIs after having unprotected sex, read below for the current recommendations.
What are the guidelines for STI testing frequency?
The CDC provides guidelines on how often sexually active people should get screened for common STIs like HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis.
In general, the CDC recommends:
- All sexually active people aged 13-64 should be tested annually for HIV
- All sexually active women younger than 25 years should be tested annually for chlamydia and gonorrhea
- Women 25 years and older with risk factors (e.g., partner[s] with an STI) should be tested annually for chlamydia and gonorrhea
- All pregnant people should be tested for HIV, and pregnant people at risk should be tested early in pregnancy for chlamydia and gonorrhea
- Sexually active gay and bisexual men should be tested for HIV, syphilis, chlamydia and gonorrhea at least once a year, with more frequent testing every 3-6 months if they have multiple partners
- Anyone who shares needles, syringes and other injection drug equipment should be tested for HIV at least once a year
- Anyone who has had oral or anal sex should discuss options for throat and rectal testing for STIs with their healthcare provider
Following these STI testing guidelines can help you stay up to date on your health and seek treatment when necessary to avoid potential complications.
But what about testing after a specific exposure, like unprotected sex?
When should I get tested for STIs after unprotected sex?
If you’ve had unprotected oral, anal or vaginal sex, you may be wondering how soon you should get an STI test. While you might not be sure of which STI you may have contracted or be at risk for, the timing of the infection will depend on the STI:
- HIV: Depending on the type of test you take (e.g., antibody test, rapid antigen/antibody test), it can take anywhere between 18 and 90 days for HIV to show up on a test after exposure
- Chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis: These bacterial STIs can typically be detected within only a few days or weeks of exposure
- Herpes: Testing for the herpes simplex virus is most accurate around 12-16 weeks from the last possible date of exposure
"STI testing windows can be complex. If there are any concerns or questions about when to test, it’s recommended to speak with your healthcare provider for next steps,” says Irene Cheung, family nurse practitioner and clinical lead for Labcorp OnDemand.
Signs to get tested for STIs
In addition to CDC screening guidelines, consider STI testing if you are experiencing any of the below symptoms that indicate infection:
- Pain or burning during urination
- Unusual discharge or odor from genitals
- Genital sores, bumps, rashes or swelling
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Bleeding between menstrual periods
- Pelvic pain
Remember that many common STIs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, often have no symptoms, so following screening guidelines is vital. If left untreated, STIs can lead to long-term health issues like infertility, pregnancy complications or cancer.
Take charge of your sexual health
In addition to following the recommended STI testing guidelines and staying aware of common STI symptoms, remember to practice safe sex by using condoms correctly every time and communicating with partners about protection. Since everyone’s health and lifestyle habits are different, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about your individual risks and testing frequency.
Whether you’re pursuing routine STI testing or want to supplement your regular screening by testing after a possible exposure, Labcorp OnDemand offers multiple options.
Bottom line: Knowing your STI status early allows for prompt treatment to safeguard your health.
