Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are more common than many people realize, and most do not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages. That’s why routine STI testing is an important part of protecting the reproductive health and overall well-being of sexually active adults. At South Tampa Immediate Care, we offer confidential, walk-in STI testing for those seeking reliable answers. If you are unsure how often you should be tested, here is what you need to know.
Why Routine STI Testing Matters
Many common sexually transmitted infections, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, can be present in the body without warning signs. If left untreated, these STIs can progress and lead to potentially serious complications, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, and chronic pain, infertility, and increased risk of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission in both men and women. Routine STI testing can allow for early detection and timely treatment, helping to prevent long-term health consequences.
General Guidelines for STI Testing
The optimal frequency of STI testing for sexually active adults can vary. After considering factors such as age, sexual practices, and overall risk, a healthcare professional might recommend testing:
- Once a year – For asymptomatic adults in a long-term, mutually monogamous relationship, annual testing can provide reassurance.
- Every three to six months – Individuals with multiple sexual partners, those who do not consistently use protection (such as condoms), and anyone in an open relationship should be tested more frequently than annually.
- With each new partner – Before entering a new sexual relationship, both partners should be screened for sexually transmitted infections.
- Immediately after symptoms develop – Individuals who experience symptoms, such as burning sensations during urination, genital sores, pelvic pain, or unusual discharge from the penis or vagina, should seek STI testing right away.
Special Considerations
Some populations may benefit from a more specific STI testing timeline. These include:
- Women younger than 25 – Because sexually active young women are at especially high risk for chlamydia and gonorrhea, they should be screened as recommended by their physician.
- Men who have sex with men (MSM) – Depending on their sexual activity level and number of partners, MSM should be tested every three to six months for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV.
- Individuals diagnosed with HIV – Those with a confirmed human immunodeficiency virus infection should be tested for other STIs at least once a year, and more often if they are sexually active.
Reliable STI Testing in Tampa, FL
At South Tampa Immediate Care, we make STI testing simple, discreet, and accessible. Our experienced medical team can provide a prompt evaluation and walk you through the process without judgment. We have walk-in availability seven days a week, so you can get tested whenever it works best for your schedule, with no appointment needed. We offer highly accurate rapid testing for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. These, as well all other STI tests, can be sent out for lab testing with results in 2-4 business days.
Getting tested for STIs is not just about protecting your own health—it is also a responsible step toward protecting the health of your partners. Routine testing also opens the door to honest conversations and helps reduce the spread of infections in our community. If you are sexually active and have not been tested recently, do not wait. Visit South Tampa Immediate Care for confidential STI testing and expert care you can trust. Walk in today, enter our waiting room remotely, or call for more information about our urgent care center in Tampa, FL.
