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Why Get Tested
Screening is a confidential, quick, and easy way to determine whether you have a sexually transmitted or blood-borne infection STBI. Many who are infected with STBBIs do not display symptoms; they can unknowingly spread the infection. Thus, screening provides assurance that individuals are aware of their health status and can receive appropriate treatment while preventing complications from an untreated infection.
When to Get Tested
Risk factors for contracting STBBIs include:
Unprotected Sex: Engaging in sexual activities without using barriers like condoms or dental dams increases your risk of STBI transmission.
Sharing Equipment: Sharing needles, syringes, or other tools used to prepare or consume drugs exposes you to the potential for infection.
TattoosPiercings: Getting a tattoo or piercing with non-sterile equipment can lead to infections.
Moreover, if:
You are in a committed relationship and want to avoid condom use or latex sheets.
You're pregnant or planning pregnancy; STBBIs can affect the health of both you and your unborn child.
You or your partner:
Had sex with a new partner
Engaged in multiple sexual encounters, including oral and anal sex
Had intercourse without protection like using condoms
If exposed to blood or bodily fluids from an infected source e.g., semen, vaginal discharge.
If experiencing symptoms consistent with STBBIs.
STBBIs disproportionately affect certn populations:
Youth aged 25 years and under: Particularly those engaging in sexual activities.
Men who have sex with men MSM: MSM are at higher risk due to the nature of their sexual practices.
Individuals recently incarcerated or who previously were: Those who spent time in correctional facilities may have increased exposure risks.
Sex workers and clients
People who inject or inhale drugs
Individuals from regions with high STBI prevalence
If you or your partner belongs to one of these risk groups, consult a healthcare professional for STBBI screening.
Preparing for Your Test
Accessibility: Medical consultations for STBI testing are confidential and free for those with a Quebec health insurance card.
Costs: There may be nominal fees $5-$15 for sample transportation to the laboratory; however, this cost is wved with a valid Quebec healthcare card.
Where to Get Tested
Primary care clinics
Clinics offering sexual health services CLSCs
Family planning centers
Youth clinics for those aged 25 or younger
To find local testing options, consult your healthcare provider or call Info-Sante 811. When scheduling an appointment:
Opening Hours: Inquire about the clinic's avlability for evenings and weeks.
Appointments: Determine if you need to schedule a visit.
Fees: Learn whether any charges apply.
What to Expect
During your consultation, healthcare professionals may ask about:
Current symptoms
Sexual activity history including partners, practices like oral sex
Drug use injecting or inhaling substances
Answer these questions as truthfully and thoroughly as possible; this information guides the tests suggested. Medications are avlable for treatment of STBBIs, which can either cure infections or manage complications when curable treatments are unavlable.
For further reading:
Sexually Transmitted and Blood-Borne InfectionsLink to resource
STBBIs during PregnancyLink to resource
Last Updated: August 17, 2023
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This article is reproduced from: https://www.quebec.ca/en/health/advice-and-prevention/screening-and-carrier-testing-offer/screening-for-sexually-transmitted-and-blood-borne-infections-stbbis
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