Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

There are dozens of STIs. Some STIs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, HIV, and syphilis are spread mainly by sexual contact.  

  • Comprehensive STI testing requires an appointment with a medical provider and includes testing for gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis and HIV.
  • For patients with no symptoms, timely testing is available for gonorrhea and chlamydia by sending a secure message via the Patient Portal.

With young adults, 15 to 24 years old, accounting for nearly two-thirds of the reported chlamydia diagnoses and half of the gonorrhea diagnoses, STI testing, prevention and treatment has never been more important on college campuses. 

To help battle the alarming and rising trends of STIs, the health center offers “Get Yourself Tested” (GYT) testing appointments for chlamydia and gonorrhea — the two most common STIs among college students.

Prevention Methods

This list provides an overview of common ways to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Barrier Methods:

  • Condoms: Protect against many STIs when used consistently and correctly.
  • Dental Dams: Thin sheets of latex used during oral sex to prevent STI transmission.
  • Latex Gloves: Offer protection during intimate activities involving hands.

Vaccinations: 

Vaccines are available to protect against certain STIs, including:

  • Hepatitis A and B
  • HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
  • Mpox (Monkeypox)

Regular Testing:

  • Routine STI testing is essential, even if you don’t have symptoms. Early detection allows for prompt treatment and reduces the risk of transmission.

Medications:

  • Daily Pills for HSV Prevention:
    If you have HSV (herpes simplex virus), taking daily antiviral medication can reduce viral shedding and lower the risk of transmission to your partner. While this decreases the likelihood of infection, it does not eliminate it completely.
  • HIV Prevention (PrEP):
    Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medications are available for HIV-negative individuals at high risk of exposure, such as those with an HIV-positive partner. Options include:
    • A daily pill
    • A monthly injection

Behavioral Methods:

  • Abstinence: The only 100% effective method to prevent STIs.

How does GYT Clinic work?

The GYT Clinic offers easy and convenient urine testing for patients experiencing no symptoms, and can be billed to insurance or self-pay. Patients can expect their results within 2-3 business days. Patients with symptoms should make an appointment with a medical provider for further evaluation and likely, additional testing.

Why get tested? Here's some facts...

  • 1 in 2 sexually active young people will get a sexually transmitted disease (STI) by 25. 
  • Many sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are asymptomatic, meaning they show no noticeable symptoms. This is why getting an STI test is important if you are having sex.
  • Approximately 20 million new STIs occur in the United States annually, and a significant portion of these cases go undiagnosed due to asymptomatic infections and lack of testing. The only way to know for sure if you have an STI is to GYT.
  • If you receive a positive STI diagnosis, know that all are treatable with medicine and some are curable entirely.

Need More Information?

For more information about various STIs, view the CDC's website.

To be seen by a medical provider at the health center if you are experiencing symptoms, please call 479-575-4451 or schedule an appointment through the Patient Web Portal.