Self-Directed Testing for Sexually Transmitted Infections
Students with sexually transmitted infection (STI) symptoms should see a clinician to discuss the best tests and treatment options. Call 831-459-2500 for an appointment or visit our Same Day Care department (see below for off-campus option).
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- Determine the tests you need:
- Self-directed testing is available for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, HIV and Syphillis.
- The order form reviews the basic recommendations for testing
- If you need more information before you decide what tests you would like:
- Test the right body parts:
- Some of these tests can be done with either a urine test or a vaginal swab. A vaginal swab is more accurate. You do not need to do both a urine and a vaginal swab.
- Gonorrhea can be transferred with oral sex. If you need a throat swab for gonorrhea see a nurse in Same Day Care who can swab your throat. Ask reception for a “swab it” visit.
- If you are having anal sex you may need to do rectal swab.
- Test at the right time:
- We recommend three weeks between unprotected sex and testing. Testing prior to this time is not considered accurate.
- For more information about when to test, watch this video
- Understand the costs:
- For students with UCSHIP and no symptoms, testing has no out of pocket costs and can be done as often as you like.
- For students with Cruz Care or have waived UC SHIP, these tests cost money. Learn more about the costs here. Fees are posted to your student account.
- Complete the order form:
- Go to your Health E-messenger, click Messages on the menu, select new message, select Self Directed STI Testing
- Complete the questionnaire and submit.
- Go to the Lab:
- Self-directed testing is available during these hours.
- Be patient: our lab is busy and sometimes patients with serious health problems will be called into the lab before someone who is waiting for STI testing.
- You will be able to collect your own vaginal or rectal swab in our private lab bathroom.
- Determine the tests you need:
- Herpes blood tests are not offered for self-directed testing.
- Herpes blood tests can be falsely positive. This means the test can indicate that a person has been exposed to herpes but the test can be wrong.
- For these reasons we do not recommend herpes blood tests.
- For more information about herpes
About Student Health Outreach and Promotion(SHOP):
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FREE and anonymous rapid HIV testing (results in 20 minutes)
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Reproductive health information and resources
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Pregnancy tests, lube, dental dams and gloves (cheap prices!)
Off-Campus?
- Make a telehealth appointment with the Student Health Center and we can mail your labs to your local lab facility. (fees apply)
- Visit a low-cost Planned Parenthood or community health center in your area