Sexual Health

An STI kit is a specially designed set of testing supplies that allows people to check for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) from the comfort and privacy of their own homes. These kits will contain everything needed to collect a sample, including swabs or urine collection containers, detailed instructions for sample collection, and secure, pre-paid packaging to return samples to a laboratory. The benefit of using at-home STI Kits is to monitor their sexual health without the need for a clinic visit.

"STD" stands for sexually transmitted disease, which usually means an infection that causes noticeable symptoms or health issues, like untreated chlamydia leading to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). "STI" stands for sexually transmitted infection and covers a wider range of conditions, including those that don’t show symptoms—so someone can have an STI without having an STD. The stigma around these terms is quite different. "STD" can evoke fear and shame because it sounds severe and implies illness, making people less likely to seek testing. In contrast, "STI" focuses more on the infection aspect, suggesting that many infections can be asymptomatic and manageable, which helps reduce stigma and encourages more people to get tested without fear of a label.

"STD" stands for sexually transmitted disease and "STI" stands for sexually transmitted infection. The stigma around these terms is quite different. "STD" can evoke fear and shame because it sounds severe and implies illness, making people less likely to seek testing. In contrast, "STI" focuses more on the infection aspect, suggesting that many infections can be asymptomatic and manageable, which helps reduce stigma and encourages more people to get tested without fear of a label.

Yes, STI kits from Dame are available in your state, except for New York. If you're looking to get tested, you can find various options, including home testing kits and local clinics that offer STI testing services. Be sure to check with healthcare providers in your area for specific availability and any regulations that may apply.

Yes, STI kits are effective in detecting common infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV, among others. The tests included in Dame STI kits are processed by accredited laboratories and are comparable in accuracy to tests conducted in medical facilities. Many kits use highly sensitive and specific testing methods, such as nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) for bacterial STIs and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) for viral infections, ensuring reliable results. Regular testing with these kits can help you stay informed about your sexual health.

“3 Site” testing refers to assessing for STIs at three different anatomical locations: the urethra (genital area), throat (oral exposure), and rectum (anal exposure). This option is ideal for individuals with multiple types of sexual activity, as it provides a more comprehensive assessment of potential infections. Conversely, “1 Site” testing involves screening at a single site, usually the urethra. The choice between the two depends on your sexual practices and risk exposure, allowing you to tailor your testing to your specific needs.

Absolutely! Home STD kits are available to anyone who wishes to test for sexually transmitted infections in a private setting. These kits are user-friendly, and often include everything needed to collect samples discreetly. They are particularly beneficial for individuals who may feel nervous or uncomfortable visiting a healthcare provider in person.

A full STI test typically includes screening for a panel of common infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV. Some comprehensive kits may also test for additional infections like herpes or hepatitis, depending on the provider and specific testing options. The results can help identify not only the presence of infections but also provide insight into your sexual health, allowing for timely treatment if necessary. Regular testing is crucial for early detection and management of STIs to protect both your health and the health of your partners.

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacterium. It is one of the most common STIs worldwide, often impacting the genitals, rectum, and throat. Symptoms may include a burning sensation during urination, increased vaginal or penile discharge, and abnormal bleeding, but many individuals may remain asymptomatic, particularly women. If left untreated, gonorrhea can lead to serious health complications, including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, and increased susceptibility to HIV. Regular testing is essential, especially for sexually active individuals.

Chlamydia is a prevalent sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. Often referred to as a "silent infection," chlamydia frequently presents no symptoms, making regular testing important for sexually active individuals. When symptoms do occur, they may include abnormal discharge, painful urination, and pelvic pain. If not treated promptly, chlamydia can cause serious reproductive health issues, such as PID, infertility, and complications during pregnancy. The good news is that chlamydia is easily treatable with antibiotics, which is why early detection through testing is crucial.

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It progresses through several stages: primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary. In its early stages, syphilis can present as painless sores and rashes, but if left untreated, it can lead to severe complications affecting the heart, brain, and other organs in the body. Early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics, typically penicillin, can effectively cure syphilis and prevent its progression to more serious health issues. Regular screening and practicing safe sex are important for prevention, as many people with syphilis may not show symptoms, especially in the latent stage.

The stigma around STIs often arises from societal views that label them as signs of poor decision-making or immorality. As sex coach Myisha Battle points out, we are taught to see STIs as bad, resulting in feelings of shame rather than understanding them as biological infections that can happen to anyone. This stigma persists because of a lack of adequate sex education and outdated narratives regarding sexual behavior.

People diagnosed with STIs often experience anxiety about how others will perceive them, leading to feelings of shame and worthlessness. As sexual educator Emily Depasse notes, this stigma can create worries about relationship prospects, prompting concerns regarding how to disclose their status to partners and friends. This fear can significantly impact mental health and self-identity.

Open dialogue about STIs can help dismantle the harmful narratives associated with them. Battle emphasizes that discussing STIs as part of sexual consent negotiations helps normalize these conversations. The more we talk about our experiences or educate ourselves and others, the more we can break down the stigma and reinforce that having an STI does not define someone’s worth.

These answers were reviewed by Madeline Gregg, M.S., C.S.E., a dedicated sexologist and sexual health educator committed to empowering individuals and couples through education and open communication about sexuality. With certification from the American Board of Sexology, she combines expertise with a warm, approachable demeanor to help clients navigate desires and enhance intimacy. As a contributor to Dame, Madeline shares her insights on sexual health and pleasure, fostering open dialogue and promoting inclusivity and body positivity. In her free time, she explores sexual wellness research and advocates for a more informed society regarding sexual health.

Find her on TikTok.