Q:

Should I get tested for STI's? I've had multiple sexual partners since high school. All four were European, 1 while she was in America and the other 3 while I was studying abroad. I just got back from abroad and have been thinking I should get tested. I haven't consistently used condoms with any of the girls and don't know all of their past sexual histories. I do believe that they were all STI free but should probably make sure... If I should get tested what should I get tested for and how should I schedule that? Also I don't really have any symptoms but sometimes there's a mild burning sensation while I pee but that has happened as long as I can remember and I believe I asked my regular doctor about it and she said it was normal under my circumstances. Thanks for reading and answering my question?

 

A:

The short answer is yes. Anyone who has had unprotected genital contact with another person needs STI screening, if you don't know the sexual history of that person (and when do you ever truly know the sexual history of another person?) You can go through the questions about "Express STI testing" on our website to see if you qualify for testing without an exam. Because of your symptoms, you will need an in depth consultation about your risks, so call 650-3400 to set up an appointment, which includes a review of STIs, symptoms, and prevention, options for testing and a review of the costs.

I'm perplexed by a doctor who would tell you that a mild burning sensation while you urinate is "normal under your circumstances." Whatever could that mean? It is never "normal" to have discomfort with urination, so yes, this needs to be checked out.

~The Doc