Get Tested Besties - Why You Should be Testing for STDs Regularly

Hey there, folks! Let's talk about something that might not be the most glamorous topic, but it's crucial for your health and well-being – regular STD testing. In this blog post, we're going to dive into why getting tested regularly is so important, break down recommended testing schedules, and share some down-to-earth advice to make the process a little less intimidating. So, grab a seat and let's get real about sexual health!

Why Regular STD Testing Matters: First things first – why should you bother getting tested regularly? Well, the truth is, many STDs don't always show symptoms right away. By the time you notice something's up, the infection may have already caused damage or spread to others. Did you know that 50% to 80% of American adults have oral herpes (HSV-1), which causes cold sores or fever blisters in or around the mouth? In fact, Genital herpes, caused by HSV-1 or HSV-2, affects one out of every six people in the U.S. age 14 to 49. A staggering number of those people aren't even aware that they test positive, not only because herpes isn't always included on a full panel blood test and has to be specifically requested, but also because they may never show symptoms and some physicians don't recommend testing unless you show symptoms. There's also HPV (human papillomavirus), the leading cause of cervical cancer. In most cases (9 out of 10), HPV goes away on its own within two years without health problems. But when HPV does not go away, it can cause health problems like genital warts and cancer.  More than 9 of every 10 cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV, and almost all cervical cancer can be prevented by the HPV vaccination. Every year in the United States nearly 200,000 women are diagnosed with a cervical pre-cancer. This is why regular testing is so vital, as it helps catch infections early, making treatment easier and reducing the risk of complications.

Recommended Testing Schedules: Now, let's talk schedules. How often should you get tested for STDs? Well, it depends on your sexual activity. If you're sexually active, it's generally recommended to get tested at least once a year. However, if you have multiple partners or engage in high-risk behaviors (like unprotected/frequent sex or drug use), you might want to consider testing more frequently – every 3 to 6 months, for example. 

Recommended Wait Times: Okay, so you've decided to get tested – great! But hold up, there's one more thing to consider: wait times. Some STDs may not show up on tests right away, so it's important to wait the recommended amount of time before getting tested. For most infections, this means waiting at least 1 to 2 weeks after potential exposure. However, for certain infections like HIV, it's best to wait 3 months to ensure accurate results.

Making Testing Less Intimidating: Let's be real – getting tested for STDs can be nerve-wracking. But it doesn't have to be! There are plenty of ways to make the process a little less intimidating. Look for clinics or testing centers that offer confidential, judgment-free services. With the surge of convenience and ease of access in recent years, you can even self-test from the comfort of your home with a lab test that was delivered right to your door via an online order! Letsgetchecked.com is worth a try, you get your results within 2-5 days and they make the process easy with utmost discretion. 

Taking Control of Your Sexual Health: At the end of the day, getting tested regularly is all about taking control of your sexual health. It's about empowering yourself with knowledge, making informed decisions, and prioritizing your well-being. So, whether you're single, in a committed relationship, or somewhere in between, remember – regular STD testing is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your partners.

Let's keep it real – regular STD testing is a vital part of self-care. By getting tested regularly, you're not only looking out for yourself but also for your partners and your community. So, let's eliminate the stigma, prioritize our sexual health, and make getting tested a regular part of our self-care routines. It should be just as (if not more) important as your monthly facial, massage, and blood pressure check up. When it comes to sexual health, there's no shame in staying informed and taking action to protect ourselves and others. #KnowYourStatus