Why STI Screening Matters: Protecting Your Health & Breaking the Stigma

Dianna O'Neill

Women's Health Expert, ARNP, FNP-BC

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As a Nurse Practitioner, I often encounter patients who are hesitant or unsure about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and the importance of getting screened. In today’s blog post, I aim to shed light on why STI screening is vital for your health and well-being and encourage open conversations around sexual health.

What Are STIs?
Sexually transmitted infections are infections primarily spread through sexual contact. Some of the most common STIs include:

• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Syphilis
• Herpes
• Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 5 people in the United States are living with an STI.

The Most Common Symptom of an STI? None at All!
1. Many STIs Are Asymptomatic
One of the biggest challenges with STIs is that many do not show symptoms. Chlamydia and gonorrhea, for example, are often called “silent infections” because they may not present noticeable symptoms until they lead to serious health issues. Regular screening can catch these infections early, even when no symptoms are present.

2. Preventing Complications
Untreated STIs can lead to severe health problems, including:

• Infertility
• Chronic pain
• Increased risk of HIV transmission
  For women, untreated STIs can also cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which may result in long-term reproductive health issues.

3. Protecting Your Partner(s)
Getting screened not only protects your health but also the health of your partner(s). Early detection and treatment can:

• Prevent the spread of infections
• Reduce the risk of complications for everyone involved

4. Encouraging Sexual Health Awareness
Regular STI screening promotes a culture of open communication about sexual health. It normalizes discussions around STIs and helps reduce stigma, making it easier for individuals to seek help and guidance.

Who Should Get Screened?
The CDC recommends that sexually active individuals get screened regularly, especially if they have new or multiple partners. Guidelines include:

• Women under 25 → Annual screening for chlamydia and gonorrhea
• Men who have sex with men → At least annual screening for syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea
• Individuals with HIV → Regular screening for other STIs
• Anyone with new sexual partners → Consider screening after new partners or unprotected sex

What to Expect During an STI Screening
Getting screened is typically quick and straightforward. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Consultation
Your provider will ask about your:

• Sexual history
• Any symptoms you may be experiencing
• General health

This information helps determine which tests are appropriate for you.

2. Testing
Depending on the STI, testing may involve:
✔️ Urine sample
✔️ Blood test
✔️ Swab test
💡 Good to know: You do not need a pelvic exam for STI testing—unless it’s clinically indicated or you request one.

3. Results & Follow-Up

• Results are often available within a few days
• If positive, treatment options and follow-up care will be discussed

Breaking the Stigma
Getting screened for STIs is a responsible and proactive step in managing your sexual health. There is no shame in seeking care--it shows a commitment to your well-being and to the health of your partners.

As a Nurse Practitioner, my goal is to empower you with knowledge and resources to make informed decisions. Regular STI screening is essential for maintaining sexual health and preventing complications.