You can’t always see an STD coming. Most sexually transmitted diseases show no symptoms at all—yet they can still be transmitted and cause serious health problems down the line.
That’s why routine STD testing is essential—not just for your own peace of mind, but for your partner's safety and long-term sexual health too.
But how often should you get tested for STDs? The answer depends on your sex life, partners, and risk level. In this guide, we’ll break it all down clearly so you know what to do, when to do it, and why it matters.
Why STD Testing Matters More Than You Think
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), also called STIs (sexually transmitted infections), are incredibly common—and often silent.
The Numbers Don’t Lie
According to the CDC, there are millions of new infections each year, especially among people under 30. Many of these cases go undiagnosed and untreated, not because people don’t care—but because they don’t know.
STDs Can Be Asymptomatic
Many infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HPV may not show symptoms for months (or ever). Left untreated, they can cause complications such as infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, and increased risk of HIV transmission.
Routine testing is the only way to catch infections early and protect your body and your partners.
How Often Should You Get Tested for STDs? General Guidelines
How often you should get tested for STDs depends on your sexual activity, number of partners, and any risk factors. Below are the most widely recommended timelines.
If You're Sexually Active and Under 25
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Women and AFAB Individuals: Get tested for chlamydia and gonorrhea annually.
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Men and AMAB Individuals: Annual testing is recommended if you have sex with other men or multiple partners.
If You Have Multiple Partners or Casual Sex
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Get tested every 3 to 6 months—especially for HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia.
If You're in a Monogamous Relationship
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Get tested once when the relationship becomes exclusive.
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Retest if either partner has had any sexual contact outside the relationship or if symptoms appear.
If You're a Man Who Has Sex With Men (MSM)
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The CDC recommends testing for HIV, syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea every 3–6 months, depending on behavior.
If You're Pregnant
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Get tested during your first prenatal visit.
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Additional testing may be recommended later depending on risk factors.
What STDs Should You Be Tested For?
Routine screening often includes some—but not all—STDs. Make sure you ask for the right ones based on your needs.
Common Tests to Consider
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HIV
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Chlamydia
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Gonorrhea
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Syphilis
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Hepatitis B and C
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Herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2)
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HPV (for people with cervixes through Pap or HPV testing)
You can’t assume you’re being tested for everything—so speak up at your appointment.
Signs You Should Get Tested Right Away
While many STDs are silent, others do show symptoms. Get tested immediately if you experience:
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Painful urination
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Unusual discharge
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Itching, rashes, or sores in the genital area
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Pain during sex
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Flu-like symptoms after a new partner
Also get tested if a partner tells you they’ve tested positive for an STD, even if you don’t have symptoms yourself.
STD Testing Is Fast, Private, and Often Free
What To Expect During Testing
Most tests involve:
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A urine sample
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A cheek swab
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A blood test
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A physical exam
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A swab of the genitals, throat, or rectum (based on risk and exposure)
Testing is quick, painless, and confidential. Clinics often provide results within a few days.
Where to Get Tested
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Primary care provider
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Sexual health clinics
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Planned Parenthood
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At-home STD testing kits
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Local health departments
Many clinics offer free or low-cost testing—especially for teens, students, or people without insurance.
STD Testing and Relationships: Why It Matters Beyond Health
Getting tested regularly builds trust, reduces anxiety, and shows you care about your partners.
Before a New Relationship
Mutual testing helps start things off with clarity and respect. It’s an act of care, not an accusation.
During Non-Monogamous or Casual Dating
Routine testing becomes even more important. It keeps the vibe fun, respectful, and honest—especially when multiple people are involved.
Even If You Use Protection
Condoms and barriers greatly reduce risk but don’t eliminate it entirely—especially for infections transmitted through skin-to-skin contact (like HPV or herpes). Testing adds another layer of safety.
Talking About Testing With a Partner
It might feel awkward at first—but conversations about sexual health are actually a huge green flag.
How to Start the Conversation
Try:
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“Before we take this further, I’d love to talk about testing.”
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“I got tested recently—have you?”
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“Let’s get tested together before becoming exclusive.”
Framing it as a mutual step makes it feel less confrontational and more caring.
Make STD Testing a Routine Part of Your Life
Instead of treating testing like a panic-button response, reframe it as a form of self-care and connection.
Use Reminders and Check-Ins
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Add a calendar reminder every 3–6 months
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Tie testing to milestones (new partner, end of a situationship, etc.)
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Use health apps that track testing dates and results securely
Make the Conversation Fun With Pick Me Up
It doesn’t have to feel like a medical lecture. The Pick Me Up Party Game includes cheeky, thought-provoking questions around dating, sex, and communication—perfect for breaking the ice before bigger conversations like testing and boundaries.
Use it as a playful way to spark honesty, curiosity, and care in your relationships.
Knowing Your Status Is Confidence, Not Caution
Testing Is a Sign of Responsibility, Not Shame
Wondering how often you should get tested for STDs isn’t just a medical question—it’s a reflection of how you value your health, your pleasure, and your partners.
Whether you’re hooking up, nesting in a long-term relationship, or figuring things out in between, regular STD testing should be part of your routine. It keeps things transparent. It protects everyone involved. And it lets you enjoy sex with more ease and confidence.
So don’t wait for symptoms. Don’t wait for fear. Make testing part of your sexual wellness, and keep showing up for yourself.
FAQs About STD Testing
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Can I get tested for all STDs at once?
Most clinics offer panels that cover common STDs, but you may need to ask for specific tests. Herpes and HPV are not always included in standard screening. -
Is STD testing confidential?
Yes. Most clinics and doctors maintain strict confidentiality. Teens may have access to confidential testing depending on local laws. -
Can I get tested at home?
Yes. There are FDA-approved at-home testing kits available for many STDs. Always choose a trusted provider and follow the instructions carefully. -
What if I test positive?
Don’t panic. Most STDs are treatable, and many are curable. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and inform any recent partners. -
How soon after exposure should I get tested?
It varies. Some STDs can be detected in a few days; others, like HIV, may take weeks. When in doubt, ask a healthcare provider and consider retesting if needed.