Starting a new sexual relationship can come with lots of conversations; what you’re both comfortable with, contraception, condoms and perhaps when you last had an STI test.
But does having a new sexual partner automatically mean you need to get tested?
There isn’t one testing routine that’s right for everyone, but a new sexual partner is a good time to think about your sexual health and whether testing might be right for you.
Why test if I feel completely fine?
One of the most important things to know about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is that they don’t always cause noticeable symptoms.
You or your partner could have an STI without knowing it. Testing can give you information that symptoms alone cannot.
That doesn’t mean you need to worry every time you have sex. Instead, think of STI testing as a normal part of looking after your health.
When should I consider getting tested?
Your testing needs can depend on your individual circumstances, including:
- the type of sexual contact you’ve had
- whether condoms or other barriers were used
- when the sexual contact happened
- whether you or your partner have other sexual partners
- whether either of you has recently been tested.
You might also choose to get tested simply for reassurance. You don’t need to have symptoms or think something has gone wrong to access sexual health support.
Can I test straight away?
Not always.
Some infections aren’t detectable immediately after exposure. This means that if you test very soon after sexual contact, you may be advised to repeat the test later.
If you’re unsure about when to test, speak to a sexual health professional. They can advise you based on what happened and when.
If you develop symptoms, a partner tells you they have an STI, or you’re particularly worried about an exposure, contact Suffolk Sexual Health Service rather than waiting for a routine test.
Talking to a new partner
Talking about sexual health with someone new might feel awkward, but it doesn’t need to be.
You could talk about when you were both last tested, whether you want to use condoms and what contraception you use before having sex.
It isn’t about questioning somebody’s sexual history or assuming they have an STI. It’s simply part of looking after yourself and each other.
And remember, having had an STI test previously doesn’t tell you somebody’s current STI status if they’ve had sexual contact since.
Need support? Visit Suffolk Sexual Health Service or use the online portal:
