New Year, Fresh Start: The Importance of Annual STI Testing

The new year is a time for fresh beginnings and positive resolutions. Among your goals for health and wellness, why not include something that’s vital yet often overlooked—annual STI testing?

Knowing your sexual health status is a proactive way to care for yourself and your loved ones. At Epicentre, we’re here to make the process simple, discreet, and inclusive for everyone.

Why Annual STI Testing Matters

 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are more common than you might think, and many of them show no symptoms. This means you could be living with an infection without realizing it, potentially putting your health and your partner’s health at risk.

Here’s why annual STI testing is essential:

  1. Early Detection Saves Lives: Identifying STIs early ensures effective treatment and helps prevent complications like infertility or chronic conditions.
  2. Peace of Mind: Knowing your status allows you to move forward in relationships with confidence and clarity.
  3. Stopping the Spread: Regular testing reduces the risk of unknowingly transmitting infections to others.

Epicentre: Inclusive Testing for All

 

At Epicentre, we believe that everyone deserves access to quality sexual health services. That’s why we prioritize inclusivity, offering testing and support for all genders, orientations, and backgrounds.

Whatever your gender, race, age or partner choice, our team ensures a judgment-free, welcoming experience.

Convenient Testing Options:

  • STI Test in a Box: Discreet at-home testing for multiple STIs, allowing you to take control of your health in privacy.
  • Accessible Clinics: Visit our trusted locations for professional care and support.

When Should You Get Tested?

 

Start the new year by scheduling your test if:

  • You’ve never been tested or haven’t been tested in over a year.
  • You’ve had multiple partners or a new partner in the past year.
  • You’ve engaged in unprotected sex.
  • You’re planning to conceive or are pregnant.

Annual testing is a good baseline, but higher frequency may be recommended depending on your lifestyle and health history.

What to Expect

 

STI testing with Epicentre is quick, confidential, and designed with your comfort in mind. Tests may include urine samples, blood tests, or swabs, depending on the infections being screened. Results are typically available quickly, with support and guidance provided for next steps if needed.

You can learn more about our tests on our website.

Take Control of Your Health in 2025

 

Starting the year with annual STI testing is a step toward a healthier you and a healthier community. By prioritizing sexual health, you’re embracing self-care, protecting your partners, and empowering yourself with knowledge.

At Epicentre, we’re here to make testing accessible, inclusive, and stress-free. Let this year be the one where you take charge of your health.

Book your STI test today and start 2025 on the right foot. Reach out to us for more information.

Our STI Packages

  • Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Package

    Includes: E. coli, E. faecalis, C. albicans, C. albicans, C. dubliniensis, C. glabrata, C. krusei, C. lusitaniae, Candida parapsilosis, C. tropicalis, S. aureus S. agalactiae

    Lab results in 5 to 7 working days - No referral required

  • Women’s Large Sexual Health Package

    Includes: Atopobium vaginae, Bacterial vaginosis-associated bacteria 2 (BVAB2), Candida spp, Chlamydia trachomatis, Escherichia coli O18, Gardnerella vaginalis, Herpes simplex virus, Human Papilloma virus (HPV), Lactobacillus spp, Mobiluncus spp, Mycoplasma genitalium, Mycoplasma hominis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Prevotella bivia, Trichomonas vaginalis, Uncultured Megasphaera spp, Ureaplasma urealyticum

    Lab results in 5 to 7 working days - No referral required

  • Comprehensive HPV Package

    Includes: HPV-6, HPV-11, HPV-40, HPV-42, HPV-43, HPV-44, HPV-54, HPV-61, HPV-16, HPV-18, HPV-26, HPV-31, HPV-33, HPV-35, HPV-39, HPV-45, HPV-51, HPV-52, HPV-53, HPV-56, HPV-58, HPV-59, HPV-66, HPV-68, HPV-69, HPV-70, HPV-73

    Lab results in 2-5 working days. No referral required

  • Women’s Extra Large Sexual Health Package

    Includes: Atopobium vaginae, BVAB2, Bacteroides fragilis, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli O18. Gardnerella vaginalis, Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus iners, Lactobacillus jensenii, Mobiluncus curtisii, Mobiluncus mulieris, Prevotella bivia, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus agalactiae, Uncultured Megasphaera 1, Unclutured Megasphaera 2, Candida albicans, Candida dubliniensis, Candida glabrata, Candida krusei, Candida lusitaniae, Candida parapsilosis, Candida tropicalis, Chlamydia trachomatis, Haemophilus ducreyi, Mycoplasma genitalium, Mycoplasm hominis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Treponema pallidum, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Trichomonas vaginalis, Herpes Simplex Virus type 1, Herpes simplex virus type 2, HPV

    Lab results in 5 to 7 working days - No referral required

Haven’t found the test you’re looking for?