The pleasure was a surprise, but screening doesn’t have to be
Sure, these situations can happen. It’s not ideal, but you’re doing the right thing by thinking about getting tested afterwards. It’s the only way to know for sure if you or the other person has an STBBI. After that, you’ll have total peace of mind.
Tip #1
Wait for the window period before getting tested
The window period is the time it takes for an STBBI test to accurately detect an infection. This period varies from one STBBI to another: it takes two weeks for chlamydia and gonorrhea to register, but can take as long as 12 weeks for syphilis, hepatitis B and C, or HIV to show up. An infection might not register on a test if you take it the day after unprotected sex, even if the infection was transmitted to you.
If you’re unsure about the window period, you can still make an appointment for screening. The clinic staff will let you know if you need to undergo further testing at a later date.
Tip #2
Anal and vaginal penetration are not the only forms of intercourse that carry risk
Sticking to oral sex or sharing toys is not a foolproof method of prevention.
There is still a risk of transmitting certain STBBIs through skin-to-skin contact and the sharing of bodily fluids.
If this was your method of protection, don't worry too much, but go get tested!
Check out this article from Club Sexu to learn how to protect yourself when using toys.
