Short answer: yes, you absolutely can and it happens more often than people realise.

A lot of people think that once you’ve had an STI and been treated, you’re “immune” or safe from getting it again. Unfortunately, that’s not how it works. You can catch the same STI more than once, even if you’ve been treated before and even if you didn’t have symptoms the first time.

Let’s break down the myths and why follow-up testing really matters.

Myth: “I’ve already had it, so I can’t get it again”

This is one of the most common misunderstandings around STIs.

For most STIs, like chlamydia, gonorrhoea and trichomoniasis, your body does not build long-term immunity after infection. That means:

• You can get treated
• Test negative
• And still catch the same STI again if you’re exposed to it later

Even if your last infection felt mild or you had no symptoms at all, reinfection is still possible.

How Do People Get Re-infected?

Re-infection usually happens when:

• A partner hasn’t been tested or treated
• Someone has sex before treatment is fully finished
• Condoms or protection aren’t used
• A new partner passes on the infection without knowing they have it

Because many STIs don’t cause obvious symptoms, someone can pass one on completely without realising.

That’s why regular testing is so important, even if you feel “fine”.

Why Follow-Up Testing Matters

When you’re treated for an STI, the infection should clear but that doesn’t always mean the risk is over.

Follow-up testing is important because:

• It checks that the treatment has worked
• It helps spot re-infection early
• It protects your health long-term
• It helps stop STIs being passed on to others

If an STI keeps coming back without being picked up, it can sometimes lead to longer-term health problems, including fertility issues.

Testing isn’t about blame, it’s about looking after yourself and your partners.

“But I Don’t Have Symptoms…”

Most STIs can be completely symptom-free, especially in the early stages. You might feel totally normal and still have an infection.

That’s why testing:

• Isn’t just for people with symptoms
• Is part of normal sexual healthcare
• Is a really positive way to take control of your health

If you’re sexually active, getting tested regularly is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself.

How to Reduce the Risk of Getting the Same STI Again

You can lower your risk by:

• Using condoms for vaginal, oral and anal sex. Under 25s in Suffolk can order free condoms via the eC-Card.
• Making sure both you and your partner complete treatment
• Avoiding sex until treatment is finished
• Getting tested when you change partner
• Having routine check-ups even if you feel well

No method is perfect, but combining protection with testing makes a big difference.

Easy, Free STI Testing in Suffolk

If you’re worried you might have an STI, or you just want peace of mind, you can order a free, confidential STI self-test kit online through Suffolk Sexual Health Service.

You take the test at home, send it back, and get your results safely and discreetly.

👉 Order your free self-test kit here:
https://suffolksexualhealthservice.org.uk/online-portal/#STI-Self-testing

It’s quick, private and judgment-free.

The Bottom Line

You can catch the same STI more than once.
Being treated once doesn’t make you immune.
And follow-up testing is an important part of staying healthy.

Getting tested isn’t something to be embarrassed about it’s a smart, responsible and positive step for you and anyone you’re intimate with.

If you’re unsure, worried, or just want reassurance, Suffolk Sexual Health Service is here for you with free, confidential advice, testing and treatment.

Your health matters.