Thank you for writing to SSIS! It can be important to talk to sexual partners about STI testing, and it is also common to feel nervous or unsure about how and when to bring it up. If you are sexually active, health professionals recommend getting STI tested (this includes for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea and HIV) at least once a year. If you have multiple partners and/or have unprotected sex, it is recommended that you test more frequently. You and/or your partner can make appointments at the Brandeis Health Center to get tested! Most insurances, including the Brandeis Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP), cover the cost of testing. Additionally, for those with insurance based in Massachusetts (including the Brandeis SHIP), the STI testing service will not be included on summaries of payment sent to your insurance holder.

There can be a lot of stigma surrounding discussions of sexual transmitted infections and safer sex practices. Honesty and openness around STI testing can be a great way to feel safe and comfortable with your partner. Having an STI does not mean that you are “dirty” or “unclean,” and they are more common than most people expect. In fact, the most common symptom of many STIs is no symptoms at all. Regardless of your situation, testing can be a good way to minimize the risk of contracting or spreading an STI.