STI testing: ‘Think of it as a regular check-up’

Now it’s easier than ever to make it a part of your health routine at Concordia

October 19, 2017

By Christian Durand

Concordia’s Health Services is now offering weekly testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) every Tuesday from 1 p.m. to 3:40 p.m. Call 514-848-2424 ext. 3565 to book an appointment.

The initiative will make it easier for students and others in the Concordia community to get these important tests.

According to Gabriella Szabo, a health promotion specialist at Health Services, STI testing is recommended every six to twelve months for anyone who is sexual active, and should be incorporated into your regular health routine.

“Think of it as a regular check-up at the dentist or optometrist,” Szabo says. “Even if you are in a monogamous relationship or practicing safe sex, it’s important to stay up to date.”

For those who are in higher-risk categories – such as those engaging in anonymous or unprotected sex – Szabo suggests using the service even more frequently.

STI testing is mostly painless and does not take much time, She says. STIs are treatable, and the sooner you know if you have one, the better you can take care of yourself and your sexual partners.

Szabo points out that not having symptoms of an STI does not mean you do not have one.

“The most common sign of an STI is no sign. Harm could be happening to you physically and you could be spreading the infection to others.”

If you are experiencing symptoms that you think might be related to an STI, you can see a doctor at Health Services’ urgent care clinic. Registration opens at 9 a.m.

STI testing is available every Tuesday from 1 p.m. to 3:40 p.m. at Health Services, located in Room 200 of the Guy-Metro (GM) Building (1550 De Maisonneuve W.), on the Sir George Williams Campus. Call 514-848-2424 ext. 3565 to book an appointment. If this time doesn't work for you, you can always drop in during opening hours to meet with a nurse.