Which STD Tests Should I Get?

If you are sexually active, getting tested for STDs is one of the most important things you can do to protect your health. Make sure you have an open and honest conversation about your sexual history and STD testing with your doctor and ask whether you should be tested for STDs. If you are not comfortable talking with your regular health care provider about STDs, there are many clinics that provide confidential and free or low-cost testing. Below is a brief overview of  STD testing recommendations.

• All adults and adolescents from ages 13 to 64 should be tested at least once for HIV.

• All sexually active women younger than 25 years should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year. Women 25 years and older with risk factors such as new or multiple sex partners or a sex partner who has an STD should also be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year.

• Everyone who is pregnant should be tested for syphilis, HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C starting early in pregnancy. Those at risk for infection should also be tested for chlamydia and gonorrhea starting early in pregnancy. Repeat testing may be needed in some cases.

• All sexually active gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men should be tested:

  • At least once a year for syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. Those who have multiple or anonymous partners should be tested more frequently (e.g., every 3 to 6 months).

  • At least once a year for HIV and may benefit from more frequent HIV testing

  • (e.g., every 3 to 6 months).

  • At least once a year for hepatitis C, if living with HIV.

• Anyone who engages in sexual behaviors that could place them at risk for infection or shares injection drug equipment should get tested for HIV at least once a year.

• People who have had oral or anal sex should talk with their healthcare provider about throat and rectal testing options.