The Truth About Fake STI Test Results: Unpacking Stigma and Consequences
First, I absolutely adore @sheratesdogs. Second, I now know that fake STI test results are a thing (??).
Fake STI results, and the entities that offer them, are the results of STI stigma. People are so afraid of testing positive, or even getting a test, that they seek falsified test results to share with partners.
This post is important for several reasons:
1) we see direct parallels with COVID and STI screenings;
2) we confirm that partners can fake their STI results, so this is important to consider;
3) people can and do screenshot text messages, so be mindful of that in disclosures that happen over text; and
4) you can engage in conversations around safer sex, know all the right words to say and share, and still not receive or disclose the truth.
I find this post especially interesting because it seems that the individual who provided the fake results can and does seek to engage in safer sex conversations with their partners... but they ultimately can’t have the conversation with themself.
I’m not sure if people pay for these results or make them alone, but their existence and money/time spent to provide these reports speaks volumes around the fear of even testing for STIs as a form of sexual self care and the deeply rooted shame people hold within.