April is STI Awareness Month—a great reminder that taking care of your sexual health is just part of taking care of you. The goal? Make testing normal, easy, and maybe even a little less awkward.
STIs are very common—and often don’t come with obvious symptoms.
They can spread through:
• Vaginal sex
• Oral sex
• Anal sex
• Skin-to-skin contact
So yes… even when everything seems fine, it’s still worth checking in. Remember, sexual health is health.
The good news? Most STIs are:
• Easy to test for
• Simple to treat
• Much better handled early
Think of testing like a routine oil change for your health—quick, smart, and preventative.
Your healthcare provider talks about all kinds of health topics every day—and sexual health is just one of them. It might feel a little awkward to bring up, but for them? Totally normal. For you? Totally worth it.
If you’re not sure how to bring it up, keep it simple:
• “I’d like to be tested regularly for peace of mind.”
• “I’ve started seeing someone new and want a fresh start.”
• “I just want to make sure everything’s good.”
No big speech required. Short and honest works perfectly.
What to Expect During Testing
Good news: STI testing is usually quick, easy, and impossible to fail.
Depending on what you’re being tested for, it may include:
• A urine sample
• A quick swab (oral, genital, or rectal)
• A blood test
That’s it.
The simple and general approach to testing:
• New partner
• Multiple partners
• Symptoms or possible exposure
• Just want peace of mind
Best Ways to Prevent STIs
A few simple habits go a long way:
• Use condoms or dental dams consistently
• Get tested regularly
• Talk openly with partners
• Stay up to date on vaccines (like HPV and hepatitis B)
None of this has to be complicated—it’s just about being intentional.
Getting tested isn’t a big deal—it’s a smart, responsible, and totally normal part of life.
This April, add STI testing to your health checklist. It’s quick. It’s easy. And it’s one small step that can make a big difference.
Promise provides affordable STI testing, treatment, and counseling in a confidential, welcoming, and judgment-free environment. Some individuals may also qualify for free testing and treatment for both themselves and their partners.
Check out these resources for additional information about sexual health:
• STI Stats and Facts: CDC, WHO, ASHA
• Overall Sexual Heath: American Sexual Health Association (ASHA)
• Prepare for Sex: Game Plan Resources
• Risk Assessment Quiz
• Conversation Tips for Partners & Providers