Did you know that by the age 25, an estimated one in two sexually active young adults will contract an STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection)?

Did you know some STI’s show no symptoms?

Wait, one more, did you know those who may be infected may not know it?

It’s scary to think about and even scarier to not to know your status. Getting tested needs to become the norm in today’s society amongst young people. I personally would think the number of STI’s would decrease if some of us took out the time to go get tested.

Some of us out there are not sure where, when or how to get tested or are too scared to go alone. However, I am going to try to simplify those problems by providing some information to help you feel at ease. Just follow these few steps to becoming closer to knowing your status:

  1. Locate your local health care provider and call to set up an appointment to be tested. Setting up an appointment for testing will prepare doctors for your visit and they will know what you’re there for.
  2. Most health care providers suggest sexually active teens to be tested by the age 18. This is a good time to get tested because you are considered an adult. However, I think it may be a good idea to go earlier just to protect yourself and others. The sooner the better when you want to know if you’re infected with an STI.
  3. Testing for STI’s does not come in one form. Testing different STI’s can require different types of testing. This is why it’s a good idea to make an appointment with your health care provider.
  4. I’d say, take someone with you. Going with someone can help you relax and put you in good spirits. Ask a parent, friend, or your partner to join you. This way you have more support in taking a huge step towards knowing about your sexual health.

Okay, if I haven’t made your decision easier and you feel like you want or need more information you can check the following websites that I have provided.

MTV’s GYT FAQs page outlines several topics about getting tested.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provide more information regarding STI testing and the importance of being tested.

If you don’t have a regular health care provider, please visit Planned Parenthoods website to find a local health center near you for testing.

Get yourself tested, because you owe it to yourself. It’s better to know than to be left in the dark.