Which STI (STD) test should I request if I have no symptoms

Dear Love Drive,

Which tests should I ask for if I have no symptoms of an infection?

I’m going to see my doctor tomorrow for a check up, and I’d like him to give me an std test.

The last time I asked him for one he asked me questions then told me not to bother. He was right, I’ve been just fine, but there are those rare times when I do get to play with others, and they always ask when I was tested last. Saying I don’t need to sounds disingenuous. Problem is, I don’t know what tests to ask for.

So, what do you get tested for when you go in, and have no symptoms? Is there a standard group of tests you ask for on a regular basis?

Monogamish in Michigan, 42

Hi Monogamish in Michigan,

Great question and good job on wanting to be an ethical, thoughtful, and safe partner. Being confident about your sexual health is key to preventing the spread of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). Knowing your status is super sexy. Nothing like being able to confidently divulge your clean bill of health before getting dirty with a new partner.

Your experience with your doctor is common. Many health care professionals won’t test unless there’s a chance you’ve been infected, are showing symptoms, or have engaged in risky sex. Sexual health clinics with limited funding have to responsibly triage and allocate resources to those most in need. There isn’t a standard group of tests that you should get on a regular basis. It all comes down to risk. Number of partners, status of those partners, and how safe you’ve been can help determine which tests you should request.

Men having sex with men, having sex with IV drug users, having sex with partners you know test positive for an STI, and/or paying for sex all increase your risk of contracting an infection.

Your doctor probably felt that you were too low risk to warrant tests.

That being said you can absolutely request an STI test from your primary care physician.

If you haven’t been tested for HIV lately I would ask for a HIV test along with a Hepatitis B and C test, and the Herpes/HSV test (be sure to ask for a type-specific IgG test, not an IgM test). These are all infections which can have no symptoms. While you’re at it talk to your doctor about getting the Hepatitis B vaccine if you haven’t already gotten it.

I wouldn’t worry about getting tested for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, or trichomoniasis; they’re usually accompanied with symptoms (that burning feeling and/or colorful discharge). And there are no tests for HPV for men so you won’t be able to request that one either.

With this you’ll be well informed about your current status and can have more informed discussions with your future partner. Need some tips on how to bring up your sexual history first? Read this.