Scarleteen

In my country (The Netherlands) they tell us to get tested at the beginning of a monogamous relationship and that is it. You don’t need to get tested during your relationship unless there is another reason like getting cheated on.

In America they tell you to get tested annually regardless of your relationship status. Why?

Hey wortmanjessica -- I can totally see your confusion about this recommendation. Sometimes STIs don't show up as quickly as one might assume after exposure or may be even asymptomatic, so getting tested annually is a good way to check in and make sure everything is ok. This is especially helpful considering that some conditions like herpes and syphilis can be contracted without direct genital to genital contact.

Does this help?