OK, I guess this qualifies as a PSA, and maybe it will get some discussion started about an uncomfortable topic: STDs.

Recently one of my local TER brethren asked me if I had ever caught one, and I told him I had not, but I am careful and have myself tested every 6 months. He did not know how to do that, and I wondered if that was the case for others, so I thought I might post something about it.

I use an online service.  There are many these days.  I don't necessarily recommend the one I use (www.tstd.org) -- I tend to keep using it more out of laziness than anything else.  But I've looked around, and the prices are all about the same.  Typically $250 for a panel of the big 8 (HIV, Hepatitis B/C, Herpes 1/2, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Syph).  You can also get others for single diseases or other combos for less.  Depending on the service, it can be all confidential. (You pay for it online with a credit card, but when you go to the clinic to donate the sample, you can use another name.)  I've also seen that there are also home kits you can use -- send in the sample and get it later online.  (Even from Walgreens!)

I was wondering what other people were using.  Maybe there is a better (cheaper?) way than what I am doing.  And maybe this post will get others to think about getting themselves tested, in case they never have.  Its pricey, but the peace of mind is priceless...  

(In case anyone wanted to ask: NO, I do not do uncovered FS.  Never have, never will.  But I do enjoy the occasional BBBJ and DATY -- not often, and only when I think I can trust the other person.  But some day my instincts may not be so good...)