Readers Respond: Getting Tested For STDs - What Is It Like?

Responses: 6

NOTE: To answer anonymously, log out of your account and then post as a guest. Share Your Stories!

scared of testing

I am female and had unprotected sex with my last partner several times. Once, in a drunken haze, I asked him if he had been tested. He mumbled. I took that as a yes because I thought I was in love with him. I recently discovered that he had lied to me about nearly everything and was also cheating on me. I knew I had to get tested. I had 3 panic attacks leading up to the test. I was completely paralyzed with fear. I wasn't doing anything other than obsessively browsing the internet. DO NOT DO THAT. I finally popped an anti-anxiety pill and got tested. Waiting for the results were the worst 24 hours of my life. I got my results this morning. I am negative. PLEASE PLEASE. Get off the internet and go get tested. Chances are, you'll be absolutely fine. And if you are HIV +, after some time and some healing, you will also be fine and will find the strength to go on.

—Guest TERRIFIED

Ask questions!

I asked my doctor for a full STD screening & was not informed that they were not testing me for herpes & now, 3years later have been diagnosed with HSV2. I called the doctor that did the test 3 years ago to find out they never tested me for that and no I have no idea how long I have had it. Get tested regularly because I have still never had an outbreak and make sure you know what they are testing for.

—Guest Guest

HPV in men

I thought there was no test for HPV in men? I know I've been exposed to it, so should I ask to be tested for it? How often should men get tested? Is there any point in going if you've only been with the same person as last time? Do most men go to Planned Parenthood? The last time I went (only time), they asked if a nurse could watch as part of her training, as if they don't get men often.

—Guest Guest

HIV test in Queens

After having recurring heath issues it was mentioned to me to possibly get an HIV test. I am super careful sexually but it was, as it is with anyone who is sexually active, a possibility. The more I had the thought/possibility in my mind the more I had to know for sure! I went to a free clinic in Jamaica, Queens, NYC. They were very kind but professional. They took a complete sexual history and asked me questions I had not thought of. I think everyone should go though this experience because, even though I was low risk, sitting there, in the waiting room, waiting for the results, is a humbling experience that everyone should go though. Especially every heath care provider that ever sends patients! The walk down the hall when they are ready to tell you the results is the longest walk of your life. I was gently told that I was negative and reminded about safer sex practices. Having done it I think everyone should go. You ask yourself some great questions while you waiting to find out.

—Guest NYC Lady

routine...

My gynaecologist is the best gyno on the planet, I swear. He takes everything in stride & by now, knows that, because I've got multiple partners, he'll be doing the full spectrum of tests. All in all, it's nothing to be scared of & the piece of mind is so very much worth any temporary discomfort that I wouldn't ever contemplate not getting tested regularly.

—misskitty_79

Ridiculous!

The second time I went to be tested for STDs at Planned Parenthood I expected it to be quick and painless, just like it had been the first time. Unfortunately, the doctor forgot the sampling tubes and didn't realize it until after my feet were in the stirrups and the speculum was... where the speculum goes. She had to run next door to get a new supply! Now I always ask them to check to make sure they have everything they need before I let them start the exam.

—Guest Maggie