Facing STI Anxiety - Finding the Courage to Get Tested

About a 3 min read.

Anxiety About STIs Is Normal

Feeling anxious about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is a natural response for anyone who is sexually active. According to WHO estimates, over one million new STI cases occur worldwide every day. In Japan, reported syphilis cases hit a record high in 2023. STIs are by no means someone else's problem.

However, when anxiety becomes overwhelming, people tend to avoid getting tested altogether. "What if I'm positive?" "It's embarrassing." "What do I tell my partner?" This avoidance behavior leads to missed opportunities for early detection and treatment, and contributes to the spread of infection.

Correcting Misconceptions About STIs

The "It Won't Happen to Me" Assumption

STIs don't only affect certain types of people. Anyone who is sexually active is at risk. Even with condom use, some STIs (herpes, HPV, syphilis, etc.) can be transmitted through oral sex or skin-to-skin contact.

"No Symptoms Means No Infection"

Many STIs progress without symptoms. About 70% of chlamydia cases in women and about 50% in men are asymptomatic, and about 50% of gonorrhea cases in women show no symptoms. The absence of symptoms is not proof that you are uninfected. (You can gain accurate knowledge from books on STIs)

Getting Tested

Where to Get Tested

Public health centers (free, anonymous HIV testing available), urology clinics, gynecology clinics, STI clinics, and online test kits (collect samples at home and mail them in). Testing at public health centers is often by appointment, but it's free and you don't need to give your name.

What to Test For

Sexually active individuals are recommended to get tested at least once a year for major STIs (chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, hepatitis B). Getting tested before starting a relationship with a new partner is also an act of mutual protection.

If You Test Positive

Many STIs can be cured with proper treatment. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are treatable with antibiotics, and syphilis can be fully cured with antibiotics if caught early. With current antiretroviral therapy (ART), HIV viral load can be suppressed to undetectable levels, and with proper treatment, life expectancy is nearly the same as for uninfected individuals. "Positive" does not mean "life is over."

Telling Your Partner

Telling your partner about a positive STI result is one of the most courageous things you can do. But it is essential to protect their health. Tell them straightforwardly: "I got tested and the result was positive. I'd like you to get tested too." Rather than assigning blame, frame it as an action to protect both of your health. (Books on partnership can also be helpful)

Prevention

Correct condom use significantly reduces the risk of many STIs (though not 100%). The HPV vaccine is effective in preventing not only cervical cancer but also throat and anal cancers in men. PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) offers over 99% effectiveness in preventing HIV for those at high risk.

Summary

Anxiety about STIs can be managed with accurate knowledge and regular testing. Getting tested is not something to be embarrassed about - it is a responsible action to protect your own health and your partner's. Don't keep your worries bottled up; get tested first.