Why regular STI checks are so important

A recent report by Public Health England revealed that there were 422,147 diagnoses of STIs made in England in 2017, with reported increases of syphilis (20%) and gonorrhoea (22%) compared to the previous year.

"Regular sexual health screenings are important to maintain good sexual health, prevent transmission of STIs and ensure that any infections are treated as early as possible," explains Karin O'Sullivan, clinical lead at the sexual health charity FPA.

According to the report, the groups most at risk of contracting an STI are: young straight people (aged 15-24); black ethnic minorities; and gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men.

However, it's not just younger people at risk as there are rising rates of STIs among the over-65s too. Even if you are postmenopausal, using a condom is the easiest way to prevent the spread of infection.

“Whatever your age, it's important to practise safe sex and get regular check-ups," O'Sullivan states.

How often should you get checked?

How often you need to get tested mostly depends on your relationship status and sexual activity. If you're in a committed long-term relationship there is marginally less need for regular testing.

"Most advice recommends that people have a sexual health screening at least once a year. However, if you don't have a regular partner and are having casual sex, it's advisable to get checked more often such as every three to six months," O'Sullivan suggests.

"Generally, getting checked between partners and before new relationships is a good idea," she notes.

Facing your fear

Common signs that you have an STI include abnormal discharge, bleeding, sores, ulcers or rashes, pain during sex or passing urine, and swollen glands in the groin.

However, these symptoms will not always be present. For instance, half of men and seven in 10 women affected by chlamydia don't have short-term symptoms - yet if untreated it could lead to debilitating pelvic inflammatory disease and fertility problems. Even if you don't exhibit any signs of an STI and you're having regular unprotected sex, it's important to remain vigilant.

"If you do exhibit any symptoms that could be an STI, you should get checked as soon as possible," O'Sullivan warns.

However, she admits that there are many reasons some people might be apprehensive about going for a sexual health screening.

"These can include nervousness about the results, worries about discomfort or pain during the check-up, the stigma of possibly being seen at a clinic by someone they know, sharing their sexual history, questions about their gender identity or sexuality, the trauma of past sexual violence and more."

But it's vital to remember that the staff are professionals. They see these cases every day and are trained to put you at ease if you need further explanation or comfort, so don't be afraid to ask questions or communicate any anxiety.

The most important thing is not to panic, and don't feel ashamed. STIs are extremely common and if dealt with quickly, many can be treated with complete success.

A lot of infections are passed on due to embarrassment of a partner finding out, which in the long run will do more harm than good.

"There are even services that can inform your sexual partners if you receive a positive result and do not feel able to tell them yourself," O'Sullivan reveals.

Remember you're not in this alone. She adds that: "Practitioners will also be able to direct you to pathways if you need more help, such as domestic abuse or sexual violence services."

What to expect

Sexual health screenings do not last long. Think of it as ten minutes of slight discomfort that could potentially relieve you (and others) from years of debilitating symptoms.

"You'll be talked through all processes thoroughly and can ask for a chaperone or someone to be with you for support if needed. All information shared between you will be kept confidential, in a non-judgemental environment," assures O'Sullivan.

If you don't feel comfortable going to a sexual health clinic, or you find it difficult to access these services in your area due to closures, there are many sites where you can order a free kit online in the UK. This is especially useful if you don't have any symptoms but would like a check-up.