HIV and STI Testing
Some STIs can go unnoticed or have symptoms that can be mistaken for a minor illness. So the only way to know for sure that you have an infection is to get tested. To find out more about a wide range of STIs, symptoms, and treatment, go to the CDC’s STI information page.
It is suggested by the CDC and the Pennsylvania Department of Health that individuals who are sexually active get a regular screening for STIs at least once a year. You can find HIV and STD testing in Pennsylvania by entering your zip code at gettested.cdc.gov. If you don’t get result on your first try, you may need to broaden your search area beyond the preset ten mile radius. Some testing locations are free.
If you want to get tested for HIV, and you don’t want to go to a doctor’s office or clinic, you can get a free HIV self-test kit through the mail. Go to www.getmyHIVtest.com for more information and to order.
If you still need help in finding testing, or have basic questions about STIs, you can send a message to our online outreach staff at rgy2@pitt.edu with the word “question” in the subject line. We usually respond within 24 hours.
HIV and STI Prevention
Research shows PrEP prevents HIV infection. PrEP stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis and is a once-a-day pill that is prescribed by a doctor. To learn more about PrEP, go to the CDC’s PrEP information page.
To find a PrEP provider near you, enter your zip code on the PrEP Locator Website. You can also open/download this PrEP information page from the Pennsylvania Department of Health. It also lists PrEP providers specifically in Pennsylvania.
***PrEP won’t, however, protect against other STIs like Syphilis, Gonorrhea, and Chlamydia.***
To learn about a wide range of STIs and who are affected most, go to the CDC STI resource page.
The good news is that STIs are totally preventable. Here’s How You Can Avoid Giving or Getting an STI text page from the CDC. You can also download this pdf file with some helpful tips on how you can protect yourself and your partner. If you prefer something more colorful, click on the image below…
