In our world anno 2023, sexuality and intimacy play a huge role. Has that actually ever been different? Sex is something of all times, it is part of a good life! So why do we still feel a barrier to STD testing? Because honestly, isn't it a good thing to take care of your own health and that of your sex partner(s)? Let's not see STD testing as a sign of distrust or fear, but as a sign of respect for our own bodies and those of others.

Better safe than sorry!

In routine we check our blood pressure or blood sugar levels. Make STD testing with different sexual partners a routine, too. Take charge of your own sexual health. That will feel good!

Why an STD test?

A Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) can affect anyone, regardless of age, sex, gender or sexual orientation. STDs are infections you can get when you have unprotected sexual contact. Often people think that if they don't see or feel any symptoms, everything is fine. But many STDs can be present without visible or palpable signs. And yet you can then transmit them to a sex partner. It could also be that you have no symptoms of them but your sex partner does. The only way to be sure you don't have an STD is to get tested!

Symptomless Carriers

The biggest concern surrounding STDs is the fact that they can often be "symptomless. This means that even as a carrier of an STD, you may have no symptoms. Without knowing it, you may be infecting your partner. By getting tested, you are not only responsible for your own health, but also for the health of your current or future partners.

Benefits of regular STD testing

If you're not yet convinced that regular STD testing is recommended for everyone, we've listed a few more benefits here:

1. Early detection: By testing regularly, any STDs can be detected early. This is nice because it means they can also be treated quickly. And that's how you prevent long-term complications and transmission to others.
2. Reassurance: The thought that you and your partner(s) are free of STD offers reassurance and allows you to enjoy sex to the fullest without worry.
3. Prevention: Regular testing prevents the spread of STDs. If you test positive, you can take measures and receive treatment that will prevent the spread of the STD.
4. Information: By testing, you stay informed about your sexual state. Knowledge is power, and in this case, it helps you make informed decisions about your body and relationships. Your body is worth it!

When should you get tested?

It is advisable to get tested:

• After a new unprotected sexual contact (consult with us about how long after that is wisest)
• If a sex parter tells you that he/she/they have tested positive for an STD
• If you have symptoms that may indicate an STD, such as itching, burning, rash, unusual discharge or pain
• If you are sexually active with multiple partners

Where can you go for an STD test?

• A Private Clinic like OneDayClinic offers anonymous STD testing. You can easily make an appointment through our website. We are the only clinic recognized by SOA Aids Netherlands. You thereby have the option of getting results in 90 minutes with the rapid test and or in 2-3 business days with the regular test.

You can visit the following testing locations:

• Amsterdam – City Center
• Amsterdam – South
• Rotterdam
• Utrecht
• Eindhoven
• The Hague
• Nijmegen

• At the doctor's office - Here, unfortunately, you are not anonymous and have a chance to run into people you know. This can feel uncomfortable for some people. The results often take a week and the tests are NOT free. They are paid for out of the deductible

• At the GGD - At the GGD you can go only if you are in a risk group, the waiting times can be very long. Up to several weeks. The test is free.

How regularly should you test?

It depends on how many different sex partners you have, are you sexually active with multiple sex partners, it is recommended to get an STD test every 3-6 months. When you have a warning/ complaints that may indicate an STD? Then it is wise to make an appointment immediately. To avoid developing unpleasant complications yourself and to avoid potentially infecting others.