Why is oral STI testing important?

Many sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can infect the oral cavity and throat, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes (HSV), and HPV. These infections are often asymptomatic but can still be transmitted to others and may contribute to long-term complications if left untreated.

Standard STI screening often focuses only on genital sites, which means oral infections are commonly missed. Testing the oral cavity separately, especially in individuals who engage in oral sex, provides a more accurate picture of infection status and helps guide proper treatment.