KNOW THE FACTS

TESTING FOR AN STI JUST GOT A WHOLE LOT EASIER

With today's technology, testing is as simple as providing a urine sample. No more painful or invasive swabs. Just stop by the student health center or talk to a health care professional about taking the test. You should have your results within a few days. If you test positive, your health care professional will give you a prescription for antibiotics. Make sure to take all of the prescribed medication. As for the cost, that all depends on your school's student health center and if you choose to go through insurance. For details, call your student health center. If you're guessing about the confidentiality of it all, don't. There are laws that protect patient/doctor privacy.

TALK TO YOUR PARTNER

Don't be embarrassed to talk to your sexual partner about having an STI. If you are infected, talk to your partner as soon as possible, so he or she can get tested and treated. Keep in mind, between 60 and 73% of young adults diagnosed with an STI become infected with the same STI within a year -- more often than not, by the same partner. Therefore, if you receive treatment and your partner does not, you may become infected again.

FINALLY...

It should go without saying, but the facts speak for themselves: NOT EVERYONE PRACTICES SAFE SEX. So, be sure to use condoms every time you have sex. But remember, condoms do not provide complete protection from all STIs. Sores and lesions can be present in areas not covered by a condom, which can result in transmission of infection. And don't forget to talk with your partner about STIs. If you think you may be infected, avoid sexual contact and see a health care professional immediately.