Potential TW: STD/STI So I’ve never been tested before and don’t really know much about getting tested. and I will probably get tested in the next couple of weeks. Could someone tell me what the process is like? And how do I know which stds I need to get tested for? And does anyone know estimate pricing for the US? I’m a bit nervous for it

You should get a swab/urine test for chlamydia & gonorrhoea 2+ weeks after sex and get a blood STI test ideally 3 months after sex (3 months is when it’s most accurate) which usually covers HIV & syphilis. Usually all you do is put a swab up your vagina and rub it around a bit then put it in a plastic tube, for the blood test you’ usually either have your finger pricked or a normal blood test. Not too sure about US pricing/tests but I recommend checking if your insurance covers it or checking the planned parenthood website x

Tw: std Do you have any insurance ? Do you want to go through your doctor or your university health center ? If no insurance health center might be cheaper and you can call and ask for pricing before going. For me I do annual check ups and I ask which stds they are testing for. It’s usually bacterial ones like chlamydia and gonorrhea etc. Every once in a while I will ask for a full panel and that includes all of them like herpes and HIV. Don’t assume they will check for everything without you telling them. Make sure to tell them what you want. They usually just swab the vulva with a long q-tip. Ive never been asked to do it myself a doctor or nurse usually does it. I barely notice it and its not painful at all. Its also over in seconds. They draw blood for a full panel.

I've heard different things but personally only ever had a urine test for chlamydia and gonorrhea and a blood test for the full panel of other things including HIV. Only had a swab done for a pap screening every 3 years. The urine test is super simple just pee in the cup they give you and the blood draw also not bad, both are over pretty quicky