STIs 101 🔬 Prevention & Testing for Young Women

Why this guide matters 💡

Accurate information turns fear into confidence. This guide explains what STIs are, how prevention actually works, when/where to test, and how to talk with a clinician—in clear, shame-free language. In South Florida, Let’s Talk About It! offers free workshops that fill education gaps not always covered at school or at home—helping reduce STIs and teen pregnancy while building self-awareness, self-confidence, and self-determination. 🌷

What are STIs? 📘

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections passed through sexual contact. Some are caused by bacteria (e.g., chlamydia, gonorrhea), others by viruses (e.g., HPV, herpes), and some by parasites (e.g., trichomoniasis). Many don’t show symptoms, especially at first—so testing is how you know your status.

Prevention that works (real-world, not fear-based) 🛡️

• Condoms (external or internal): Help reduce risk of many STIs when used consistently and correctly. Keep a few on hand and check the expiration date.

• Dental dams: A thin barrier that helps reduce risk during oral sex.

• Vaccines: The HPV vaccine helps protect against types of HPV that can cause cancer and genital warts (ask a clinician about timing/eligibility).

• Fewer overlapping partners + time between partners: Lowers exposure risk.

• Testing & treatment: Regular testing and prompt treatment protect you and future partners.

• Communication & consent: Pressure isn’t consent. You can pause or stop anytime.

Quick scripts:

• “I use condoms every time—do you have one, or should I bring?”

• “I get tested regularly. When was your last test?”

• “No pressure—I’m not comfortable without a condom.”

Testing 101 🧪

When to test:

• After unprotected sex or a condom mishap

• When starting a new relationship

• If a partner has symptoms or an STI diagnosis

• On a routine schedule if sexually active (timing varies—ask a clinician)

What testing is like:

• Urine sample and/or swab (painless) for many common STIs

• Blood test for some STIs

• Results can be fast; many clinics are teen-friendly and focus on privacy.

Confidentiality matters:
Clinics typically protect privacy and explain what shows up on insurance statements. Ask: “How will my privacy be protected? What will my EOB (insurance) show?”

Myths vs facts 🧠

• Myth: “I’d know if I had an STI.”
  Fact: Many STIs have no symptoms early on—testing is how you know.

• Myth: “Condoms always ruin the moment.”
  Fact: Practice makes it smooth; having them ready is part of caring for each other.

• Myth: “Getting tested means I did something wrong.”
  Fact: Testing is normal health care—like a dental checkup for your body.

When to contact a clinician 🚩

Call a clinician if you notice painful urination, unusual discharge, pelvic/abdominal pain, sores/bumps, fever, or if a partner is diagnosed with an STI. Don’t wait—earlier care helps prevent complications.

Clinic confidence: your mini playbook 🗣️

• Before you go: Write questions in your notes app (results timing, treatment, vaccines, confidentiality).

• At the front desk: “I’d like STI testing. Can you walk me through options?”

• With the clinician: “What tests are you ordering? When will I get results? If positive, what’s the exact plan?”

• After: Save results dates in your notes and set a reminder for the next routine test.

Relationships & respect 💬

Healthy relationships feel safe, kind, and pressure-free. Red flags include coercion, guilt-tripping, or refusing protection/testing. A partner who respects you will support your boundaries and health decisions.

Quick FAQs ❓

Do condoms fully prevent STIs?
They reduce risk for many STIs when used every time and correctly—but don’t cover all skin-to-skin infections. Pair with testing and, when appropriate, vaccination.

How often should I test?
It depends on your situation. Many sexually active young women benefit from regular testing—ask a clinician about frequency.

Is testing painful or awkward?
Most tests are simple urine, swab, or blood tests. Staff do this every day and prioritize privacy.

What if I test positive?
Many STIs are treatable or manageable. Follow the treatment plan, notify partners, and retest if your clinician recommends it.

Our mission in action🌴

We host free, judgment-free workshops:

• Puberty Zone (Ages 9–13): body basics, periods, hygiene, feelings & friendships, boundaries, asking for help

• Young Women (Ages 14–21): body awareness, pregnancy prevention, STI prevention, consent, healthy relationships, clinic confidence
  Eligibility: Girls/female participants only. Caregiver required for the first session, optional for the second.