STI Testing
The only way to know if you have an STI is to get tested. Many STIs have no signs or symptoms for most people who have them. The infection can have mild symptoms that can be easily overlooked. This is why the term “disease” (as in STD) is starting to be replaced by infection (or STI).
The Southern Tier AIDS Program offers screening for gonorrhea and chlamydia in our offices and at select locations in the community every month. Results are not immediately available, so staff have to be able to follow up with you in 3-5 business days. Our screening method requires you to provide us with a urine sample, so we recommend not using the restroom for at least 30 minutes before your appointment time.
We now offer a 10-minute rapid test for syphilis which is similar to the HIV rapid test requiring a finger prick.
Some sexual behaviors and injecting practices (example: sharing syringes with others or no condoms use) contribute to new HIV, Viral Hepatitis C, and sexually transmitted infections (STI) in our community.
Testing is easy, free, and confidential.