STI and Pregnancy Testing

Why Testing Matters

What are STIs?

STI Myths and Facts

STI Testing and What to Expect

Understanding Pregnancy

Pregnancy Myths and Facts

Pregnancy Testing and What to Expect

FAQs

Why Testing Matters

Whether you are sexually active or just want to stay informed, knowing about STIs (sexually transmitted infections) and pregnancy is an important part of taking care of your health.

You do not have to be in a relationship, have symptoms, or even be sure something is wrong to get tested.

Medical test results with a checklist, a blood drop icon, and a test tube with blood, indicating blood testing or blood work.

Testing is confidential, quick, and helps you stay in control of your body and your choices.

In New York State, you can get tested without needing permission from a parent or guardian, and many clinics offer free or low-cost options.

What Are STIs?

STIs, or sexually transmitted infections, are infections passed from one person to another through sexual contact.

This includes:

Vaginal
Anal
Oral

Illustration of a pill with the word "STOP" on it, placed on a green and blue background.

Some STIs are caused by bacteria, others by viruses or parasites. They are very common and can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or sexual orientation.

STI Myths & Facts

There is a lot of misinformation out there about STIs. Knowing the truth can help you make better decisions and reduce shame or fear. We have created a short list of the most believed myths about STIs, accompanied by the facts for each belief.

Note that these are not the only myths out there!

We encourage you to do further research on trusted platforms and to think critically each time you hear information about sexual health.

Some platforms that provide factual and neutral information are:

An infographic titled "Myth vs Reality" about sexually transmitted infections whoening misconceptions. It has two columns: myth in red and fact in green. Myth states you can only get an STI with many partners, no symptoms means no STI, and you would know if your partner was infected, and STI can't be transmitted through oral sex. Fact counters with one encounter can cause STI if unprotected, many STI do not show symptoms, signs are often invisible, and STI can be passed through oral, vaginal, and anal sex.

Testing & What To Expect

When you go to a clinic, these are the most common STI tests you might receive. The provider will help you decide what makes sense based on your health, activity, and concerns.

What’s the difference?

Comparison between 'Window' and 'Incubation' periods with 'VS' in the middle, highlighted by yellow lightning bolts on a black background.

We understand getting tested can be embarrassing. We also understand the fear behind getting tested.

Understanding the difference between the window period and the incubation period can help you know when the best time to get tested is for accurate results.

A sign with a white background, bordered with yellow, displaying a message that cautions against going on the walkway with a cartoon hand holding a red triangular warning sign. The message reads: 'Please Note! Sexually transmitted infections do not go away on their own.'

In simple terms, the window period is the amount of time you need to wait after a possible exposure and when a test can reliably detect the infection.
The time it usually takes AFTER exposure for someone to feel or notice symptoms, if symptoms show up at all.

Learn more

Understanding Pregnancy

A stylized illustration of a turntable with a record on it and a stylus, using navy blue and gold colors.

Pregnancy happens when a sperm cell fertilizes an egg, usually after vaginal sex.

It can occur even if it is the first time someone has sex, or even if it was unplanned.

You do not need to “feel different” to be pregnant. Symptoms can vary or take time to appear.

Knowing the facts about how pregnancy works and how to prevent it can help you feel more confident and in control of your choices.

Pregnancy Myths and Fact

There are many myths about when and how someone can get pregnant. Understanding what is true and what is not can help you protect yourself and support others.

Let’s look at some common beliefs and the real facts.

Just note that these are not the only myths out there!

We encourage you to do further research on trusted platforms and to think critically each time you hear information about sexual health.

Some platforms that provide factual and neutral information are:

An infographic titled "Myth vs Reality: Unveiling Pregnancy Misconceptions!" featuring myth and fact sections with bullet points. Myth: "You cannot get pregnant the first time you have sex," "You cannot get pregnant during your period," "Birth control always works 100%." "You will always know right away if you are pregnant." Fact: "Pregnancy can happen anytime you have unprotected sex, even the first time," "While less likely, it is still possible depending on your cycle," "Most birth control methods are highly effective, but not perfect. Pregnancy can still happen, especially if used incorrectly," "Early pregnancy symptoms vary or may not show up at all. A test is the only way to be sure."

Testing and What To Expect

If you think you might be pregnant or just want peace of mind, clinics offer simple, confidential testing options. Both urine and blood tests look for hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin)—a hormone your body produces during pregnancy.

Pregnancy Testing: Blood & Urine Explained

Urine Pregnancy Test

Illustration of a person holding a pregnancy test with two red lines, indicating a positive pregnancy result.

Pink note with white cursive and black text explaining that first-morning urine improves pregnancy test accuracy because it contains the highest concentration of hCG.

How it is done:You urinate on a test strip or into a cup.

What to know:Results usually appear in just a few minutes. These tests are affordable, private, and widely available at clinics, pharmacies, or even at home.

Accuracy: About 99% accurate when taken after a missed period, especially when done correctly.

When should you take a urine pregnancy test?

For the most reliable results, take a urine pregnancy test 10–14 days after sex, or after your missed period, when accuracy is highest.

Blood Testing for Pregnancy

Animated illustration of blood components: a smiling blood sample tube and a red blood cell holding a 'Thank you' sign, with red blood cells floating in the background.

How it is done: A small blood sample is taken from your arm.

What to know: Blood tests are usually done at a clinic or doctor's office. Results may take a few hours to a couple of days depending on the clinic.

Accuracy: Over 99% accurate, and can detect pregnancy earlier than urine tests.

When should you ask for a pregnancy blood test?

For the most reliable results, ask for this test 6–8 days after ovulation or before a missed period.

FAQs

Most tests are quick and not painful. Urine samples and swabs are very simple, and blood tests only involve a small pinch.
Yes. In New York State, you can get tested for STIs, pregnancy, and more without a parent or guardian.
Some tests, like rapid HIV or pregnancy tests, give results the same day. Others may take a few days to a week.
Yes. Clinics that offer confidential services will not share your information, unless there is a serious safety concern.
Some clinics accept walk-ins, but it is a good idea to call ahead or check their website.
No. You can go alone and do not need to tell a parent, partner, or friend unless you want to.
The clinic will support you with information, treatment, and next steps. Most STIs are treatable or manageable.
Yes. Many STIs do not cause symptoms. Testing is a smart way to stay on top of your health.
Yes. Most tests can still be done while you are on your period. If you are unsure, call the clinic ahead of time.