STI Testing & PrEP

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Sexual Health

Sexually transmitted Infections (STIs) are common among sexually active college students. The types of STI testing you require vary by your risk factors and the types of sexual activity you have engaged in. To determine what kind of testing is recommended for you, please consult a health care provider at Student Health Services.

While not all STIs are curable, they are all treatable. The sooner treatment begins for STIs the less severe the long term health effects will be. Failure to treat an STI may impact future fertility and can result in severe long term health effects.

If you require more information or would like to talk to someone in person about any sexual health topic, please make an appointment with a health care provider. We are happy to answer any of your questions in a safe, supportive environment.


Testing may be done in two different ways:

1. Make an appointment with a health care provider if any of the following are true: 

  • You are having any physical symptoms consistent with an STD such as rash, discharge, or sores (more symptoms).
  • You have a known contact with a partner diagnosed with an STD.
  • You have been tested for STDs within the last 3 months.
  • You have concerns about STDs other than Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, HIV or Syphilis.
  • You would prefer to be seen by a medical provider for this.

2. Make an appointment with the laboratory only if none of the above are true

Scheduling directly with the lab limits testing to Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, HIV and Syphilis

Make an appointment and complete required STD Testing Form

Once you’ve determined whether you need to see a health care provider or the laboratory you may:

PrEP

PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis. PrEP is a daily pill that can help prevent HIV. If you don’t have HIV, taking PrEP every day can lower your chances of getting HIV from sex by more than 90%. PrEP is also known by the brand name Truvada. Taking PrEP every day in combination with proper condom use and other prevention methods can give you even greater protection against HIV.

Students on the United Healthcare Student Health Insurance Plan can get a 30-day supply of PrEP for a low cost at the campus Pharmacy. However, co-pays may vary for prescriptions filled in the community. If you have trouble paying for your prescription, the Jackson County Health Department may be able to assist you in enrolling in a prescription assistance program. If you or someone you know could benefit from taking PrEP but has trouble paying for their prescription, please call the Jackson County Health Department at (618)-684-3143, ext. 155.

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