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Safer Sex

What STI tests should you be asking for?


Written By Script
June 8, 2026 last updated July 10, 2026

Colorful plastic caps of various laboratory vials or test tubes arranged in a grid.
A vibrant array of colorful caps from laboratory vials or test tubes creates a striking grid pattern, suggesting scientific analysis.

Has it been a while since your last STI check? If you are wondering where to begin, Kate Fish, a peer support coordinator at the Community Based Research Centre, has some basic tips to get you started. 

First, keep track of your frequency: ideally, anyone who is having sex with multiple or new partners should be getting tested every three to six months. If it’s been longer than that, you might want to think about scheduling a test. 

Next, you should know what you’re being tested for: the type of testing you need depends on the type of sex you’re having. You may need a combination of blood tests, urine test and swabs. Many tests can even be done at home. 

To learn more about testing and what to look out for, check out the video below.