Personal Story: Getting Tested for Sexually Transmitted Infections

STI/STD (sexually transmitted infection/sexually transmitted disease) testing can be very scary, especially if it's your first time. But personally, for me, there's nothing scarier than not knowing the status of your sexual health. My sexual health is very important to me and both getting tested and protecting myself during sex is the only way to stay in control of it! Getting STI testing has become a regular thing for me and gives me a sense of relief and empowerment.

I remember I used to be embarrassed when walking into clinics due to the stigma associated with them, but I am now content and proud of myself for loving and taking care of my body. It can be nerve wrecking walking into a clinic, having to sit in a room full of people (if there are any), and filling out paperwork while others may be looking at you and trying to figure out why you're there. I found that you can usually avoid these crowds in clinics or doctor’s offices when making a scheduled appointment rather than just walking in. However, hearing the assistant nurse call your name and lead you to an empty room can truly be an out of the body experience alongside those never-ending, anxious, terrifying thoughts and questions you may have rambling in your head. I think the scariest part is waiting for the results to come in. If the tests provided weren't rapid, it may take a couple of days in the lab before determining clear results. 

STD/STI testing has taught me the importance of both recognizing and maintaining my sexual health and that peeing in a cup can be challenging! Overall, it's honestly a quick and easy process and I continue to get tested frequently even when I am not sexually active. It allows me to sleep peacefully at night knowing my sexual health status and knowing that I had the power to obtain it. 

The truth is, unless you were present with your partner when receiving their STI testing results, you don’t know what their status is by looking at them. Anyone could have one, and that could include you! Most people are not even aware they have one and even more people never think about getting tested. Leaving STI/STDs untreated can cause severe repercussions and detrimental stress in the long run. Respect yourself enough to care for your body, and that includes getting tested regularly. You don’t want to unknowingly pass something to a potential partner and vice versa. Make sure not only you, but your partner is getting regularly checked and maintaining their sexual health as well. Practicing safe and healthy sexual habits ensures your protection against any unplanned consequences!

Author: Divine Justice Hilliard, YUP! Member and young parent of one child