Why should I get tested for an STI?
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Getting tested is part of having a healthy sex life.
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The only way you can know whether or not you have an STI is to get tested.
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Most STIs have no symptoms or may only have mild symptoms that can be overlooked.
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Men who have sex without a condom should be tested to make sure they do not have an STI.
When should I get tested?
If you are sexually active, you should get tested once a year. It is particularly important to get tested if you have had any kind of sex without a condom.
Where can I get tested?
Ask your doctor to test you for Chlamydia, or find an STI testing place.
How much does it cost to get tested?
That depends. But there are clinics in New Orleans you will be tested for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and other STIs for free or at a low-cost. You can also enroll in our study and get tested and treated for free.
There are different types of STI tests. Here are some common tests used.
1. Urine sample (for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea): You will be asked to pee in a cup, and will get your results back in about a week.
2. Blood Test (for HIV, Herpes, Syphilis): A nurse will draw a small amount of blood from your arm. Your results will be available in about a week. Sometimes a clinic can do a fast HIV by pricking you finger to get a drop of blood. This test will done before you leave the clinic.
3. Genital swab (for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea): A nurse or doctor will insert a swab into the urethra for a sample. If you have a lot of pain, they can wipe the tip of your penis with a small sanitary swab. Your results will be available in about a week.
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