Preventing the spread of STIs and STDs is everybody’s responsibility and knowing your status is a great way to do your part while also keeping yourself healthy. The CDC recommends every 3-12 months depending on risk category, but most medical professionals would agree that a yearly STD test is the minimum responsible frequency and testing should be done more if - and when - you engage in unprotected sex with a new partner. The frequency of necessary testing really varies based on how sexually active you are and if you’re currently outside of a monogamous relationship.
