What Tests Do I Order and How Often?
Self-order STI Testing is to screen for STIs – no symptoms. If you have symptoms, or you may have been exposed to an infection, please make a medical provider appointment to discuss further and get checked based on your situation.
Please make a medical provider appointment if you have concerns about herpes. It is not part of the Self-Order STI Program.
- Determine Your Risk Level
- Follow Testing Guidance Based on Your Risk Level and Sexual Partners
- Test All Areas of the Body Where Sexual Contact Has Occurred
- Testing Periods and Incubation
- How Do I Collect My Own Specimens?
- Testing for Certain Health Conditions
*More information regarding HIV testing at Cal Poly, SLO here
Incubation period: When your symptoms can appear after you are exposed. Remember that all STIs can be asymptomatic, however.
If you have symptoms, or know you were exposed to an STI, please make an appointment with a provider to discuss individual recommendations, instead of using the Self-Order STI testing. This is especially important for HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C and syphilis testing which can be negative up to 3-6 months after exposure.
Vaginal Collection |
Urine Collection |
Rectal Collection |
Throat Collection |
If you are on PrEP
More frequent testing is recommended if you are taking PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis medication) for HIV prevention. Testing can be as often as every 2-3 months. Ask your provider who prescribes PrEP for you to set a schedule for testing.
If you are pregnant, or have HIV/AIDS
Discuss your specific STI screening plan with your medical provider. Patients living with HIV/AIDS sometimes test every 3 months. If you need a referral to an off-campus provider for HIV/AIDS treatment or obstetrical care, please make an appointment at Health Services.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
If you have had an unwanted sexual encounter or believe you have experienced sexual assault, first know that it is not your fault, and we are here to support you.
We strongly encourage that you meet with a confidential Campus Advocate at Safer and seek medical care from Health Services or a local medical provider. If you have experienced harm within the last 7 days, you may have additional medical and reporting options. Medical providers in California are mandated to report injuries as a result of assault or abuse to law enforcement. If you have questions about this, please work with your Advocate and/or medical provider to determine how to best meet your medical needs.
Sources: Centers for Disease Control, 2021 STI, 2023 Hepatitis B and C; California Department of Public Health, 2022.
 |
 |
 |
