Regular checkups — taking care of yourself and your partners 🩺

An ethical approach to sexuality is not only about consent and openness, but also about responsibility for your health. Regular STI testing is not just a formality — it is a meaningful act of care for yourself and your partners. Many infections can be asymptomatic, yet still be transmitted and lead to complications over time.

Below are a few practical tips to help you feel confident about your safety — including in party settings ❤️‍🔥

✨ First and foremost! 

There are special packages that include the necessary analyses, so you can come to a clinic and say, ‘Bring it all on!’

In the sections below, we elaborate on specific things you may check when visiting a clinic — getting them in order, you can enjoy your life to the fullest.

📍 Where to get tested in Belgrade?

We reviewed several clinics (including options suitable for Russian-speaking clients) and identified a few reliable choices:

🔹 'Millenium' – offers discounted test packages.

🔹 'Citilab' – flexible packages or individual test selection.

🔹 'Aqualab' – wide range of tests, less user-friendly website.

🔹 'MediGroup' – many locations and a convenient website, but no ready-made packages.

We have compiled detailed comparisons of 'Millenium' and 'Citilab' offers in a separate document.

And now let's dive into the details.

📋 What should you pay attention to?

When was your last test?

If it has been a while, this is a good moment to schedule one. Modern tests are quick, accurate, and widely available.

Oral sex is not a safe sex

In the course of evolution, we developed very strong protectors of our organisms: our saliva includes antimicrobial agents and may neutralize harmful acids, and our stomach is full of a merciless acid itself.

But we are not invincible, and our mouth is both a precious gem and a vulnerable sweet spot that gets bruised and open for germs. 

Please read how to enjoy oral sex safely in our short, but comprehensive guide.

Herpes is more than just «a cold sore»

Herpes viruses are extremely common, and most people encounter them at some point. Beyond the well-known types 1 and 2 (oral and genital herpes), there are also types such as Epstein–Barr virus (linked to chronic fatigue and certain cancers) and cytomegalovirus (which can be risky for pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals).

These viruses often remain in the body for life, but their activity can be managed. If you experience frequent flare-ups or unexplained fatigue, it is worth consulting a doctor and considering testing. 

Yeast infections are not only a woman’s issue

Although often associated with women, yeast infections (thrush) can also affect men, who may carry and transmit the infection without symptoms. This can lead to repeated reinfection in partners.

Men, getting tested is part of shared responsibility — and your partners will appreciate it.

About HPV 

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is very common and is linked to the development of several cancers. Vaccines against high-risk strains are available and recommended for both women and men. Recent guidelines have extended the vaccination age up to 45. 

❗️ Men, this applies to you as well

Even without symptoms, you can carry and transmit HPV.
Vaccination helps protect both you and your current or future partners.

🧪 What tests should you take, and how often?

Basic checkup (every 6 months):

• HIV 1–2 Ag/Ab
• Syphilis RPR (Treponema pallidum)
• Hepatitis B (HbsAg)
• Hepatitis C (Anti-HCV)

Flexible checkup (every 2–8 months, depending on partner change frequency):

• Neisseria gonorrhoeae (gonorrhea)
• Trichomonas (vaginalis)
• Chlamydia (trachomatis)
• Mycoplasma genitalium

Extended checkup (once a year):

• Herpes simplex virus types I and II (IgG)
• Epstein-Barr virus (IgG antibodies to nuclear antigen)
• Human herpesvirus VI (IgG)
• Cytomegalovirus (IgG)

HPV screening (every 1–1.5 years):

• High-risk HPV types 16 and 18 (with genotyping)
• Additional high-risk types: 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 52, 58, 59, 67

🔬 Important preparation before testing

To ensure accurate results:

✔️ Avoid antibiotics for 14 days before testing

✔️ Abstain from sexual activity for 3 days

✔️ Do not urinate for 2 hours before sample collection

🩹 For men: If sample collection is uncomfortable, semen or urine testing can be used to detect chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis.

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Health is the foundation of freedom!
Stay informed, and take care of yourself and others ❤️