How often should I be tested for STIs?

Regular testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is important for the prevention and early detection of infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV.
People with multiple partners should get tested every 3 to 6 months; in monogamous relationships, an annual test is usually sufficient. If symptoms occur, immediate testing is necessary. This article provides recommendations on when STI tests are advisable, describes early signs of infection, and explains the importance of testing for asymptomatic STIs. It also introduces the available testing methods.

Table of Contents

• Why is an STI test important?
• How often should you get tested for an STI?
• Is STI testing useful if you have no symptoms?
• What is the diagnostic window and why is it important for accurate results?
• What STI tests are available and what do they detect?
• Summary

Why is an STI test important?

Testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is important for detecting and treating infections at an early stage—especially since many STIs present without noticeable symptoms and can unknowingly be transmitted to others. Untreated STIs can lead to serious health complications such as infertility, chronic pain, and an increased risk of HIV (NHS, 2024).

How often should you get tested for an STI?

The ideal frequency of testing depends on your individual sexual behavior and potential exposure risks:

• Every 3–6 months if at increased risk: For individuals with a higher risk of STI infection—especially those having unprotected sex, with multiple partners, or with partners whose STI status is unknown. This applies even in the absence of symptoms. Regular testing helps with early detection and prevents transmission.

• Annual test: A yearly STI test is recommended for all sexually active individuals, even if no symptoms are present.

• Before a new relationship: If you're starting a relationship with a new partner, it’s advisable to get tested before having unprotected sex.

• If STI symptoms appear: If you experience symptoms such as burning during urination, unusual discharge, or pain during sex, you should get tested immediately.

• During pregnancy: Testing is important both before a planned pregnancy and during an existing one. Untreated infections can lead to complications such as premature birth, low birth weight, and transmission of the infection to the baby.

Source: CDC, 2024

Is STI testing useful if you have no symptoms?

Yes, STI testing is also important if you have no symptoms, as many infections can go unnoticed. Diseases such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV often cause no discomfort but can still lead to long-term health issues and be unknowingly transmitted. Chlamydia infections are asymptomatic in up to 70% of women and 50% of men (Cleveland Clinic, 2023).

What is the diagnostic window and why is it important for accurate results?

To ensure accurate STI test results, it is essential to consider the diagnostic window—the time between an infection and when it can be reliably detected by a test. Testing too early may yield a false negative result if there are not yet enough pathogens present. Respecting this time window is crucial for reliable results and to prevent the unintended spread of infections. The diagnostic window varies by infection:
Chlamydia is typically detectable 1–2 weeks after exposure; gonorrhea around 2–6 days.
More detailed information can be found in our blog "When can you get tested for STIs?"

What STI tests are available and what do they detect?

A variety of STI tests are available, requiring different sample types depending on the infection and preferred testing method. Below is an overview of the most common test types and the infections they detect:

• Blood tests: Used to detect infections such as HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B, and sometimes genital herpes. These can be done via blood draw at a doctor’s office or as at-home finger-prick tests. Blood tests are especially effective for early detection.

• Urine samples: A reliable method to identify bacterial infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea (also known as “the clap”) in the urinary tract. Urine tests are simple and used for both men and women.

• Swabs: Used to detect infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, and HPV (especially in women via cervical swabs). Swabs can also be used for herpes-related lesions. Samples are collected from the genital area, throat, or rectum, depending on symptoms and risk factors.

• Saliva and throat tests: For certain infections like HIV (depending on the test), gonorrhea, and syphilis, saliva or throat swabs can be used. These are particularly suitable for individuals with oral sexual exposure.

Source: MedlinePlus, 2024

At-home STI testing

Home test kits offer a discreet way to test for various STIs. These kits typically include vials for urine samples, swabs for taking samples, and lancets for blood collection, along with instructions for safe sample collection. The samples are sent to a lab, and results are often accessible online. While highly reliable and accurate, any positive result should be confirmed with a doctor (NHS, 2024).

At-home tests from Homed-IQ

Homed-IQ offers a range of at-home tests that allow you to discreetly and easily check for common STIs. These tests are a good choice if you prefer not to visit a clinic and want to gain insight into your sexual health from the privacy of your home.

You can find an overview of all STI tests from Homed-IQ [here]. Whether you’re looking for targeted testing for infections like chlamydia or syphilis, or a more comprehensive panel—Homed-IQ provides suitable test solutions.
The Chlamydia and Gonorrhea Test checks for the two most common bacterial STIs, while the STI Test Plus screens for nine common sexually transmitted and bacterial infections. Test results are analyzed in ISO-certified laboratories, the same labs used by clinics and healthcare providers.

Summary

Regular testing for sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV is essential for prevention and early detection—especially because many STIs are asymptomatic and can be unknowingly transmitted.
People with multiple partners should get tested every 3–6 months, while an annual test is usually sufficient in monogamous relationships. Immediate testing is necessary if symptoms occur, and testing before new relationships and during pregnancy is also recommended to minimize health risks.
Various testing methods, such as blood, urine, or swab tests, provide reliable detection based on the type of infection and individual needs.