“I Tested Negative…Now What?” STI Test Results to Plan Your Next Steps
Getting a negative STI or HIV test result can feel like a huge relief. But then the second-guessing comes into play. Am I fully in the clear? Do I need to test again? What do I say to partners? A negative result is great news, and it’s a great time to set up a plan […]
Winter Illness or STI? Sorting Sore Throats, Rashes, and Flu-like Symptoms
Winter brings coughs and colds. It also can bring your sexual health into question if you’ve been sexually active. Is this a virus or an STI? Some symptoms overlap. Here is how to tell what to test, when to test, and what to do next. Sore Throat After Oral Sex A winter virus can cause […]
Year-End Sexual Health Reset: Simple Habits to Start Now and Keep in 2026
A reset works best when it is small, clear, and repeatable. Use these steps to build a sexual health routine you can keep all year. Pick Your Testing Cadence Choose a schedule that matches your life. Annual testing works for some. Every three to six months fits those with new or multiple partners. Put the […]
Winter Testing Guide: How to Get Free, Fast STI and HIV Tests During the Holidays
December gets busy. Plans stack up, schedules shift, and health tasks get put on the back burner. Your sexual health should not. Use this quick guide to stay covered in St. Louis, even when your calendar is full. Where To Test In St. Louis Health Stop STL, Testing & Referral Center Walk in for free, […]
Beyond Condoms: Protective Barriers You Might Not Know About
Condoms get all the attention. And for good reason! But they’re not the only barrier that protects against STIs and helps you control pregnancy risk. Internal condoms, dental dams, and gloves can make sex safer, more comfortable, and more affirming across all body types and kinds of sex. Here’s how to use them correctly, pair […]
The Six Principles of Sexual Health
The Six Principles of Sexual Health is not merely a checklist to follow. It’s a way of makingchoices that keep you safe, respected, and satisfied. These six principles give you a clearframework for making healthy decisions in real life. 1) Consent Consent should be clear, enthusiastic, and ongoing. Consent is the baseline. It’s a yes […]
What Test Do I Need? A Test Guide by Symptoms and Situations
When you’re dealing with a scary symptom or are contemplating a “was that risky?” moment, the best thing you can do for yourself is shed the shame and treat the issue. For some, the hardest part can be knowing what to test for and when. Use this quick test guide by symptoms and situations to […]
Your Sexual Healthcare Routine
Why Sexual Health Matters and How to Make It a Habit Just like you schedule dentist appointments or annual checkups, your sexual health needs regular attention too. Whether you’re in a committed relationship, dating, exploring, or anything in between, you deserve care, and that includes sexual healthcare. Here’s how to build a sexual healthcare routine […]
Let’s Talk About Sex
How to Open Up About Sex With Partners and Loved Ones Talking about sex with someone you’re close to, whether it’s a sexual partner, friend, or family member, can feel intimidating. But being open about your sexual health, setting boundaries, and sharing struggles can actually make your relationships stronger, and sex safer and more satisfying. […]
Think You’ve Been Exposed to HIV? You Have 72 Hours to Act
When it comes to HIV prevention, timing is everything. If you think you’ve been exposed to HIV—through sex, sexual assault, or sharing needles—you may still be able to prevent infection. But you have to move fast. That’s where PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) comes in. PEP is a powerful HIV prevention medication you take after a possible […]