My new girlfriend wants me to make sure I'm clean before we have sex, how do I do that at Dartmouth?

I've had a few hook-ups since fall term, and I'm sure I don't have any std's or anything. But my new girlfriend wants me to make sure I'm clean before we have sex, how do I do that at Dartmouth?

Sexperts definitely thinks it's a good idea for partners to encourage each other to get STI testing before becoming sexually active with each other. While you did not specify exactly what "hook-up" means (and whether or not that involved safer sex practices), it is always good practice that everyone (everyone!) who has had unprotected sex get tested for infections appropriate to their exposure. (Because early testing = early treatment and safer/healthier decision-making for the future).

So far as getting testing a Dartmouth, you can sign onto BannerStudent and click on "making an appointment at Dick's House" or call during business hours at 603-646-9401 to schedule a time to get testing done.

There are few things to keep in mind:
-Don't pee less than an hour before your appointment!
-Testing should be scheduled more than 3 weeks after your last unprotected sexual experience to ensure that all the STIs to be screened are detectable
-You can choose your screening provider's gender by requesting either male or female when making your appointment
-Results from your STI test can take up to two weeks
-There are no HPV tests available for men- your girlfriend should have an annual exam to test for HPV
-Screening will involve urine and/or blood collection, depending on what is being tested
-You should expect to be asked about your sexual history to assess what tests are appropriate and what you may have been exposed to
-You may bring your partner to the appointment if you are comfortable and would like to do that

If you are an undergraduate student, testing is covered. However, if you are not currently enrolled and taking classes this term, you should call the Appointments Office to find out whether there would be any charges associated with your appointment and for what health services you are eligible during your term off.

If you prefer not to utilize Dick's House for STI testing, there are also two great, local resources:

Planned Parenthood in West Lebanon: 603-298-7766
and
ACORN in Lebanon (offers HIV and Hepatitis C Testing): 603-448-8887


Hope this covers what you had in mind!

Sexperts.