The most common STI symptom is no symptoms at all

It's important to have a regular STI check if you have more than one sexual partner or if your partner has more than one sexual partner. Most STIs can be cleared up easily if treated quickly.

At the beginning of your STI testing appointment you'll be asked about symptoms - remember just because you don’t have any symptoms doesn’t mean you don’t have an STI. You'll then be asked about your sexual history and sexual practices. How much you're asked depends on the clinician (the doctor or nurse) and how much you disclose depends on you. However, remember your privacy is protected by law and the more honest you are, the better your clinician can respond to your health needs.

While questions about your sex life can seem a bit confronting, they can help guide testing and the interpretation of your results. It might be easier to disclose your sexuality or sexual practices early on rather than when the questions get tricky. It's even better if you already have a doctor who knows about your sexuality and who you can talk to easily.

More info

Contact: ACON’s Lesbian & Same-Sex Attracted Women’s Health Project

Tel: (02) 9206 2000
Free Call: 1800 063 060
Hearing Impaired: (02) 9283 2088

Email: women@acon.org.au

Web: See girl2girl.info for more information on STI’s and STI testing