When was the last time you thought about a sexual health check? For many women, the answer is either “a while ago” or “I’m actually not sure”.
Sexual health isn’t something we always talk openly about, especially when everything seems fine. But looking after your sexual health isn’t only something to think about when you have symptoms or when something has gone wrong. It’s just another part of looking after your body.
About every 6–12 months is a good guide. Australian health advice recommends that sexually active people have regular sexual health checks and STI testing every six to 12 months, even if they’re in a long-term relationship or use condoms.
But it really depends on your circumstances, including your sexual activity, partners and individual risk factors. Some women may need testing more frequently, while for others, an annual conversation with their GP is enough.
The most important thing is not to wait for symptoms before thinking about it.
But I feel completely fine… This is probably one of the biggest misconceptions around sexually transmissible infections (STIs). Many STIs can be present without causing obvious symptoms. You can feel well and still have an infection, which is why regular testing is so important.
If you experience symptoms, you may notice an unusual vaginal discharge, pain or burning when urinating, pain during sex, unusual bleeding, itching, sores or bumps around the genital area. If something feels different, it’s time to get checked rather than waiting to see whether it goes away on its own.
Instead of just thinking about “once a year” or “twice a year”, we recommend thinking about what has changed in your life.
A sexual health check is a good idea if you’ve started seeing someone new, had sex without a condom, a condom has broken or slipped, or you or a partner has had another sexual partner. You should also book a test if a previous partner tells you they have an STI, or if you notice any symptoms that you’re worried about.
If you’ve had multiple partners or have other factors that increase your risk, your doctor may recommend more frequent testing.
Started a new relationship? Getting tested should be a normal part of the conversation at some point in time. It doesn’t have to be awkward or based on mistrust. Knowing where you both stand can be a really positive way to look after each other’s health.
If you’re in a long-term relationship, that doesn’t mean sexual health suddenly stops being a concern.
Current Australian guidance recommends regular STI testing for sexually active people, including those who have one partner. Your GP can help you decide what makes sense for you based on your relationship, sexual history and health.
A sexual health appointment can also cover much more than STI testing. It can be an opportunity to talk about contraception, changes to your periods, pain during sex, vaginal or vulval concerns, libido, fertility or anything else you’ve been worried about.
It begins with a confidential conversation with your GP. This helps them work out which tests are appropriate. Depending on what you need, testing may include a urine sample, blood test or vaginal, throat or anal swab. Some swabs can also be collected yourself.
Not everyone needs every test, which is another reason having an open conversation with your doctor is so helpful.
If you’re thinking about having a baby, now is a good time to talk about sexual and reproductive health.
Some STIs can affect fertility, pregnancy or a baby if they’re left untreated. STI screening is also part of routine antenatal care for certain infections, with additional testing recommended depending on your age and individual circumstances.
A preconception appointment gives you the chance to talk about STI testing along with other things that matter when preparing for pregnancy, from medications and vaccinations to fertility and general health.
We still see unnecessary awkwardness around STI testing, but there really shouldn’t be. Having a sexual health check doesn’t say anything about who you are, your relationship or your sex life. It means you’re taking care of your health.
At Grace Private, our Women’s Health GPs on the Gold Coast provide confidential, personalised care. Whether you’re due for a sexual health check, want to discuss contraception, are planning a pregnancy or just have a question you haven’t felt comfortable asking before, we’re here for you. Our Women’s Health GPs consult from our Ferry Road practice in Southport, and you don’t need a referral to book an appointment.
If it’s been a while since your last sexual health check, book an appointment with a Grace Private Women’s Health GP today.
