STDs/STIs: Get the care that fits you

Did you know that you can get a sexually transmitted disease (STD) or sexually transmitted infection (STI) through almost any kind of sexual contact? In fact, you or your partner can have an STD/STI and not have or notice any symptoms. The only way to know if you have an STD/STI is to get tested. Learn the facts about these common STD/STIs affecting gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men—and remember to get tested regularly.

STDs/STIs: Get the care that fits you

Did you know that you can get an STD/STI through almost any kind of sexual contact? In fact, you or your partners can have an STD/STI and not have or notice any symptoms. The only way to know if you have an STD/STI is to get tested. Learn the facts about these common STDs/STIs affecting gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men—and remember to get tested regularly.

Chlamydia & gonorrhea

Chlamydia and gonorrhea are both bacterial infections spread easily through sexual contact. Learn how to prevent, test, and treat these common STDs/STIs.

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Syphilis

Syphilis is a bacterial infection spread by any sexual skin-on-skin contact. Even if you use condoms, it’s a good idea to get tested regularly for this STD/STI.

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HPV

HPV is an infection that can cause warts on various parts of the body. If you’ve been diagnosed with HPV, know that you are not alone.

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Genital herpes

Genital herpes is a common STD/STI. Learn more about genital herpes and caring for yourself and your partners.

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Chlamydia & Gonorrhea

Chlamydia and gonorrhea are both bacterial infections spread easily through sexual contact. Learn how to prevent, test, and treat these common STDs/STIs.

Syphilis

Syphilis is a bacterial infection spread by any sexual skin-on-skin contact. Even if you use condoms, it’s a good idea to get tested regularly for this STD/STI.

Other STDs/STIs

Learn more about herpes, HPV, and other common STDs/STIs affecting gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men.

Get tested for STDs/STIs regularly

Are you sexually active? STDs/STIs are a risk at any age if you’re sexually active with more than one partner or if you and your partners haven’t been tested regularly. Getting tested regularly is an important addition to your self-care checklist that you can take to protect your health and the health of your partners. Having an STD/STI, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, or syphilis, makes it easier to get HIV or to give it to others.

If you’re a sexually active gay, bisexual, and/or man who has sex with men, it’s a good idea to get tested for STDs/STIs at least once a year. If you have more than one sex partner or have had casual sex with people you don’t know, it’s a good idea to get tested more regularly—at least every three to six months is recommended. If you have symptoms, you should see a health care provider and get tested right away.

Your provider can help you determine which tests are right for you and recommend how often to get tested, so it’s important that you talk openly and honestly about your sexual history. Health care providers may not think to ask if you’re sexually active or how you are sexually active, especially if you are over 50. But you know your sexual activity best, so be sure to ask for STD/STI testing if you think you may be at risk. Depending on your insurance, you may have additional coverage that can help cover any costs. Review your coverage to see what your options are. Learn more about finding a provider who can help you get the care that fits you.