Mathusa Jeevarajah is a first-year 2nd Entry Nursing student on a mission to make a real difference in people’s lives. Fueled by empathy and purpose, she’s carving her path toward a future in critical care or across communities through travel nursing.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a common part of life and a major public health concern, yet conversations around STI testing are often clouded by stigma and misinformation. This can often make it harder for people to seek the care they deserve. But, STI testing is a routine part of maintaining your health. Getting tested helps you stay informed and make confident, responsible decisions about your well-being.
What is an STI?
An STI is an infection that spreads through sexual contact, including vaginal, oral or anal sex. STIs can be caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites, and anyone who is sexually active can be at risk, even if they don’t have any symptoms.
Many STIs show no symptoms
Many people believe that if they aren’t experiencing symptoms like burning, itching or unusual discharge, they’re in the clear. But the truth is, many STIs, like chlamydia, gonorrhea and HPV, can be completely silent, lingering for months (or even years) without any signs. Without testing and treatment, these infections can be passed on to other people and lead to serious health complications for everyone. That’s why getting tested isn’t just important – it's essential.
STI testing isn't something to fear or feel ashamed of, it’s a powerful act of self-care and confidence! By getting tested, you’re taking charge of your health, protecting your future and looking out for those you care about.
The hidden risks of untreated STIs
Ignoring an STI won’t make it disappear. In fact, the longer it goes untreated, the greater the risk to your health. What starts as a silent infection can turn into serious, long-term complications:
- Infertility: STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, causing irreversible damage to reproductive organs.
- Chronic pain: Some infections have a permanent impact. They can cause ongoing inflammation, scarring and discomfort that lasts a lifetime.
- Higher risk of HIV and other STIs: An untreated STI can weaken your immune system, making it easier to contract HIV and other STIs.
- Pregnancy complications: Certain infections can be passed to newborns, increasing the risk of premature birth, low birth weight or severe health issues.
The good news? Most STIs are easily treatable
Infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea can be cured with antibiotics, while others like herpes and HPV can be managed with the right medication. The sooner you know your status, the sooner you can take control of your health. Early detection makes all the difference!
Let’s normalizing STI testing
Here are some ways we can help break the stigma around STI testing.
1. Talk about it openly
Breaking the stigma starts with conversation. The more we normalize discussions around STI testing, the less awkward and taboo they become. Encouraging open dialogue with friends, partners and peers help shift the narrative from fear to responsibility.
Need a safe space to ask questions? Sexual Health Infoline Ontario (SHILO) offers free, anonymous chat and phone support for any sexual health concerns.
2. Connect with your primary doctor or health care provider
You're always encouraged to visit your primary doctor or a health care provider if you have questions or if something feels off! If you don't have a primary doctor, visit York's Primary Care webpage to find clinics and medical centres near campus.
3. Take advantage of free and confidential STI testing
Affordable and accessible STI testing is available across Ontario through sexual health clinics and community health centres. Many locations offer confidential or anonymous testing, along with counselling and education.
- Toronto Public Health (TPH) Sexual Health Clinics
Services: Free and confidential STI testing, HIV testing, birth control consultations, pregnancy testing and sexual health education.
- Planned Parenthood Toronto
Services: STI testing, birth control access, pregnancy options counseling, LGBTQ+ inclusive sexual health care.
- Sexual Health Ontario
Use the Sexual Health Ontario website to locate a testing site closest to you.
For more information on sexual and reproductive health, including available resources and support, visit York's Sexual and Reproductive Health webpage.
Taking charge of your sexual health is more than a choice, it’s a powerful step toward normalizing STI testing and breaking the stigma. The more we talk, test and stay informed, the more empowered and confident we become!