Let’s be real—nothing ruins a sexy moment like an unexpected infection. But here’s the thing: sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are incredibly common—so common that most sexually active people will encounter one at some point in their lives.
The good news? STI prevention isn’t about fear or shame; it’s about being smart, proactive, and, honestly, just a decent human being.
We spoke to Rhiannon John, a certified Sexologist at Bedbible, to get the facts straight on testing, protection, and what to do if you test positive.
STI Prevention Starts with Regular Testing
The best way to stop an STI from spreading? Know your status. Testing is an essential part of sexual health, yet so many people avoid it out of fear or misinformation. Rhiannon suggests getting tested after sexual contact with a new partner, especially if barrier protection wasn’t used. Testing is also crucial if a partner has recently had an STI, if symptoms appear, or if there are multiple partners involved.
Many STIs don’t show symptoms, which is why routine testing is recommended. Sexually active women under 25 should get screened yearly for chlamydia and gonorrhea, as these infections often go unnoticed but can lead to complications like infertility. Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men should get tested annually for HIV, syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea—or every three to six months if they have multiple or anonymous partners. Pregnant individuals should be tested early in pregnancy to prevent passing infections to the baby.
For most people, a full STI panel every six to twelve months is a good rule of thumb. Doctors do this all the time, so there’s no need for embarrassment. Rhiannon reminds us, “When getting an STI check, your doctor or nurse will ask some questions to assess risk and decide which tests are needed. Remember, they do this every day—there’s zero shame in taking care of your health!”
Debunking STI Testing Myths
Misinformation keeps a lot of people from getting tested, and it’s time to set the record straight. One of the biggest misconceptions? That STIs always come with noticeable symptoms. Rhiannon emphasizes, “The number one symptom of an STI is no symptom at all. Many infections—like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and even HIV—can be completely silent for months or even years.”
Another common myth is that only people with multiple partners need to get tested. The truth is, if someone has ever had sex, testing is relevant—regardless of their relationship status. Some people also believe getting tested means they don’t trust their partner, but regular screening is about personal health, not trust.
The bottom line? STIs don’t discriminate. Rhiannon explains, “Just because you feel fine doesn’t mean you’re in the clear.” Getting tested should be treated like any other routine health check-up—it’s no different from getting blood work done or visiting the dentist.
Talking About STI Testing with Partners
Let’s face it—talking about STIs with a partner isn’t exactly pillow talk. But it’s a necessary conversation that can actually increase trust and intimacy. Normalizing the discussion is key, and approaching it with confidence makes all the difference.
Rhiannon suggests keeping it casual yet direct: “Hey, I get tested regularly—when was the last time you did?” Framing it as a shared responsibility also helps, like saying, “Let’s both get tested so we can have peace of mind.” Knowledge is power, so being informed about STIs makes the conversation easier.
The way a partner reacts can also reveal a lot about them. If they become defensive or dismissive, that’s a major red flag. “Choosing a partner who prioritizes your health is a great starting point,” Rhiannon adds. “If they react poorly, that’s a red flag!” A healthy relationship includes looking out for each other’s well-being—so if someone isn’t willing to have the conversation, they might not be worth the time.
Condoms Aren’t the Only way to Prevent STIs
Condoms are a great barrier method, but they’re not the only line of defence against STIs. There are other effective ways to reduce risk, including vaccines and medications.
The HPV vaccine protects against the most common strains that cause genital warts and cervical cancer, while the hepatitis B vaccine prevents a virus that spreads through sex and bodily fluids. For those at higher risk, DoxyPEP (Doxycycline Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) can reduce bacterial STI risk when taken within 72 hours after unprotected sex. And for HIV prevention, PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a daily pill that lowers transmission risk by 99 percent.
Sexual habits also play a role in STI prevention. Reducing the number of partners, avoiding anonymous sex, and openly discussing STI history can all help. Safe sex isn’t just about protection—it’s also about informed decision-making.
Are At-Home STI Tests Reliable?
At-home STI tests have made sexual health more accessible than ever, but they’re not a perfect replacement for clinical testing. Many at-home kits use the same lab technology as clinics, making them a solid option for privacy and convenience. They’re especially great for those who feel uncomfortable going to a clinic or don’t have easy access to healthcare.
That said, there are some limitations. Not all at-home tests check for oral or rectal infections, which means clinic testing may be necessary for a more comprehensive screening. Some require a blood sample, which can be difficult to collect properly at home. Results also tend to take longer compared to in-clinic testing.
Rhiannon breaks it down: “At-home STI test kits are increasingly reliable and a good option for people who want privacy or convenience. However, if you need same-day results, have symptoms, or need full testing—including throat and rectal swabs—a clinic is the better choice.”
What to Do if You Test Positive for an STI
Testing positive for an STI isn’t the end of the world—it just means it’s time to take the next steps. Most bacterial infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis are easily treated with antibiotics. Viral infections like herpes, HIV, and HPV aren’t curable, but they are manageable with medication.
Disclosing an STI to a partner can feel daunting, but honesty prevents further spread. Keeping it simple is the best approach: “I just found out I have [infection]. You might want to get tested, too.” For those who feel anxious about the conversation, some health departments offer anonymous partner notification services.
On an emotional level, a positive result can feel overwhelming, but STIs are just a part of being sexually active. Rhiannon offers reassurance: “Remember, STIs are incredibly common—you are not alone. Handling them responsibly is a sign of maturity, not shame.” Support from friends, support groups, or a healthcare provider can make the process easier.
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STI prevention is all about making informed choices—regular testing, open communication, and safer sex practices all play a role. Whether it’s getting vaccinated, using condoms, or considering medications like PrEP and DoxyPEP, there are plenty of ways to stay protected.
Talking about STIs doesn’t have to be awkward, and getting tested should be as routine as any other health check-up. Taking control of sexual health isn’t just about preventing infections—it’s about empowerment, confidence, and ensuring that pleasure doesn’t come with unintended consequences.