Health Center Tip: Four Reasons to Get Tested for STIs

If you’re like most students, your annual health care routine probably includes a physical, a healthy mouth checkup and an eye exam. But does it include sexually transmitted infection testing?

One in two people will have an STI by age 25. If you’re sexually active, it’s time to get tested!

Still not convinced getting tested is right for you? Here are the top four reasons you should consider it:

1. 
   
2. It’s the only way to know with certainty that you have an STI. Most STIs have no signs or symptoms or mild signs that can easily be overlooked. Getting tested will tell you your status so that you can either begin treatment if needed and address the issue head on or stop worrying so you can focus on being a student.
   
3. Treatment is available. Most STIs can be treated or cured with medical interventions as prescribed by a doctor. If an STI is left untreated, it can cause infertility in both women and men, increases risk of HIV and could cause you to infect your partner(s).
   
4. It’s easy. No really! All you have to do is tell your doctor you’d like to be tested for STIs. They’ll ask you about your sexual history and order the tests they feel are right for you. The test itself is a quick blood draw. Results are shared with you in a day or two on average. In some cases, follow up in person with a doctor may be required.
   
5. Certain STI testing is free for students at the University Health Center. If you pay the University Program and Facilities Fee, your doctor-ordered chlamydia, gonorrhea and HIV testing is no additional cost. To get a doctor’s order, call 402.472.5000 and ask to speak to a nurse. In some cases, the nurse may need to make you an appointment with a provider to get a doctor’s order. However, depending on your symptoms or sexual activity, your doctor may recommend you be tested for certain STIs that are not covered by student fees.
   

More details at: https://health.unl.edu/sexual-health