What is STI testing? STI testing is the process of running medical tests to check for any sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is quick, easy, and confidential. Most STI tests only require a blood test and either a self-collected swab or a urine sample. Why is STI testing important? […]
It’s Valentine’s Day National Condom Day! It’s no coincidence that Valentine’s Day and National Condom Day fall on the same day… but in terms of which one we’re celebrating, well, that’s a no brainer. Here at Play Safe, we’ll take any excuse to celebrate condoms, but today, on National Condom […]
World AIDS Day Ever wondered why you see red ribbons everywhere in early December? Well, it’s because of World AIDS Day. World AIDS Day takes place on the 1st of December each year and is all about showing support for people living with HIV, raising awareness about HIV prevention, testing […]
What is STI testing? STI testing is the process of running medical tests to check for any sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is quick, easy, and confidential. Most STI tests only require a blood test and either a self-collected swab or a urine sample. Why is STI testing important? […]
It’s Valentine’s Day National Condom Day! It’s no coincidence that Valentine’s Day and National Condom Day fall on the same day… but in terms of which one we’re celebrating, well, that’s a no brainer. Here at Play Safe, we’ll take any excuse to celebrate condoms, but today, on National Condom […]
World AIDS Day Ever wondered why you see red ribbons everywhere in early December? Well, it’s because of World AIDS Day. World AIDS Day takes place on the 1st of December each year and is all about showing support for people living with HIV, raising awareness about HIV prevention, testing […]
What is contraception? Contraception, also sometimes referred to as ‘birth control’, is something people can use when they want to have sex that can result in pregnancy, but do not want to become pregnant or have a baby. Understanding contraception and figuring out the best contraceptive method for you is […]
Booking an STI test can seem a little daunting – especially if it’s your first time. But it’s a lot easier than you think, and nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about.
The best place to get tested is at your doctors, where you’ll need to phone and book an appointment first. There’s no need to be embarrassed or nervous – STI tests are just a normal part of keeping healthy when you’re having sex. Plus, your doctor will just be happy that you’re taking control of your health.
Remember, your results are also completely confidential.
Doctor not an option? No problem.
There are many other services, including Family Planning NSW, Aboriginal Medical Services (AMS), Headspace and some youth-specific sexual health clinics.
If it’s your first time getting a sexual health check, have a read through this factsheet we put together that gives you more info around what to expect.
For more info about any of these, or to put your mind at ease about STI testing, why not contact Nurse Nettie?
Even though it’s a normal part of a healthy and enjoyable sex life, getting an STI test can sometimes feel daunting. To show that there’s really nothing to worry about, we sat down with Melissa* from Sydney to talk about her first-hand experience of getting tested. Want to see if […]
Have you ever visited the Play Safe forum? It’s packed full of conversations on all things sexual health from young people across NSW. One of the topics they’ve been tackling recently is tips for getting an STI test. Here, we round up their advice. 1. Try to relax “Remember that […]
Getting an STI test is a normal part of a healthy and confident sex life, but sometimes it can feel daunting or confusing.
Did you know that the types of STI tests you need differ depending on the type of sex you’re having? There are a few different types of STI tests – urine tests, vaginal swabs, throat swabs, rectal swabs and blood tests. Each one has a different purpose. In Australia, a […]
What’s World AIDS Day? Held worldwide on 1st December each year, World AIDS Day provides an opportunity for everyone to: Remember those who lost their lives to HIV and AIDS Show support for people living with HIV Address HIV-related stigma that’s still present in Australia You CANNOT catch HIV through social contact. What’s HIV-related stigma? HIV-related stigma refers to […]
I’ve been getting questions lately from people worried about lumps and bumps on and around their genitals (penis, vagina, and anal area). To put you all at ease I asked a good colleague, Dr Chris Bourne, a Staff Specialist at Sydney Sexual Health Centre, to answer all your questions. Over […]