Navigating STI Screening: What to Know Before Your Appointment
With more offices moving back into regularly scheduled, in-person appointments, I want to share reminders about STI screening and what to expect.
At an annual wellness exam, one might assume that STI screening is included in one’s overall bloodwork. Maybe you add in the cliche, “Yeah just test me for everything” line.
Sexuality is still stigmatized, even among medical professionals. I’d also argue that it is behind the times, especially as it relates to matters of social justice and overall inclusive sexual health care for LGBTQ+ folks.
Because of this, health professionals (depending upon their background, office, and training), may ask inappropriate and/or outdated questions, or maybe avoid the sexual health conversation altogether.
It can be scary, traumatic, and triggering, among other things to encounter this, or fear this when entering conversations about our health. Especially after the year that was 2020. You are allowed to ask questions. You are empowered to ask about your sexual health, what tests you might need, and what’s included in the appointment.
I want to acknowledge that an unfortunate reality in the US and across the globe is that not everyone has access to or can afford inclusive healthcare, or even a doctor that sees value in our opinions, self-awareness, or research. I find that this is something I often face when bringing up my background and knowledge in sexual health, too. We all deserve to be seen and heard in our lives, and that includes our sexual healthcare.