STI Screening Schedules: What and When

Sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening is not one-size-fits-all. Your schedule depends on your age, anatomy, sexual partners, barrier-method use, and whether you have symptoms. Regular screening helps detect infections early—often before symptoms appear—so treatment can begin quickly and transmission can be reduced.

For sexually active adults under 25, many clinicians recommend annual chlamydia and gonorrhea testing. People with new or multiple partners, men who have sex with men, or anyone who exchanges sex for resources may benefit from testing every three to six months. HIV testing at least once is recommended for everyone; higher-frequency HIV screening applies when risk factors are present.

Syphilis screening is especially important during pregnancy and for people in communities with rising syphilis rates. Hepatitis B and C, human papillomavirus (HPV), and herpes simplex virus are evaluated based on vaccination status, symptoms, and exposure history rather than universal annual panels.

A negative test reflects only the window period at the time of sampling. If you had a recent exposure, ask your clinician when to retest. Pair screening with open conversations about safer-sex tools—condoms, dental dams, lubricant, and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) where appropriate.