What Is STBBI Testing? Understanding the New Standard for Sexual Health Screening

Medical Insight: Based on first-hand experience providing primary and sexual health care, including STI/STBBI testing and treatment for men and women.

What Does STBBI Stand For?

STBBI stands for Sexually Transmitted and Blood-Borne Infections.
It’s a modern, more inclusive term that replaces the older “STI” (sexually transmitted infection) or “STD” (sexually transmitted disease).

The term STBBI recognizes that some infections — like HIV and Hepatitis B or C — are not only spread through sexual contact but also through blood exposure, such as sharing needles or from mother to baby during birth.

In short:

All STIs are STBBIs, but not all STBBIs are STIs.

Why the Shift From STI to STBBI?

Health organizations such as the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) and World Health Organization (WHO) adopted the term “STBBI” to emphasize a broader understanding of transmission and prevention.

Older terms like “STD” carried stigma and focused on visible “diseases.”
However, many infections are asymptomatic — people can carry and spread them without showing any signs.

Using “STBBI” helps reduce stigma and encourages people to seek testing as part of routine healthcare, not just when symptoms appear.

Common STBBIs You Should Know

Here are the most common sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections screened during testing:

1. Chlamydia

A bacterial infection that often shows no symptoms but can cause pelvic pain and infertility if untreated.

2. Gonorrhea

Another bacterial infection that affects the genitals, rectum, and throat. Easily treated with antibiotics but increasingly resistant to some drugs.

3. Syphilis

A multi-stage infection that can cause rashes, sores, and long-term organ damage if left untreated.

4. HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)

A blood-borne infection that weakens the immune system. Modern treatments allow those living with HIV to live long, healthy lives.

5. Hepatitis B and C

Both are blood-borne viruses affecting the liver. Hepatitis B can spread sexually; Hepatitis C usually spreads through blood contact.

6. Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

A common virus spreads through sexual skin contact. Certain strains can lead to genital warts or cancers of the cervix and throat.

7. Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)

Causes oral or genital sores. While not curable, antiviral medication can control outbreaks and reduce transmission.

What Is STBBI Testing?

STBBI testing refers to the screening process for sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections.
The goal is early detection, timely treatment, and preventing the spread of infections.

Testing is confidential and can include:

• Urine tests

• Blood tests

• Swabs of the throat, cervix, vagina, or rectum

• Physical exams (if sores or rashes are present)

Testing type depends on your sexual activity, symptoms, and medical history.

When Should You Get STBBI Testing?

Oluwakemi Balogun (Kemi), CRNP, FNP-BC, MSN, recommends:

“You don’t need to wait for symptoms to get tested. Regular screening is part of maintaining your overall health.”

You should consider STBBI testing if:

• You’ve had unprotected sex (oral, anal, or vaginal)

• You’re starting a new sexual relationship

• You’ve shared needles or sharp instruments

• You’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant

• You’ve experienced unusual discharge, sores, or burning sensations

• You’re part of a high-risk group (e.g., multiple partners, sex work, or men who have sex with men)

What Happens During an STBBI Test?

Here’s what to expect at a typical clinic visit:

1. Private Consultation

You’ll discuss your sexual health history, recent partners, symptoms, and protection methods.
This helps the provider decide which tests to perform.

2. Sample Collection

Depending on risk factors:

• Urine sample → detects chlamydia and gonorrhea

• Blood draw → checks for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis

• Swabs → for throat, vaginal, or rectal testing

The process is usually quick and painless, taking less than 15 minutes.

3. Results & Follow-Up

Results may take a few days to return.
If positive, treatment typically starts immediately — often with antibiotics or antivirals. Your provider may also suggest testing your recent partners.

How Long Do STBBI Results Take?

• Rapid HIV tests: 20 minutes

• Standard STI/STBBI panels: 2–5 business days

• Hepatitis B/C tests: Up to 1 week

Most clinics will contact you confidentially by phone or secure message.

Is STBBI Testing Confidential?

Yes — all STBBI testing is completely confidential.
In most regions, even if you’re under 18, you can get tested without parental consent. Your results are shared only with you and the healthcare provider.

If a test is positive, public health departments may contact you anonymously to trace and test recent partners — without revealing your name.

Benefits of Regular STBBI Testing

Getting tested regularly offers multiple advantages:

Protects your health: Detect infections before they cause complications.
Protects your partner: Prevents unknowing transmission.
Reduces stigma: Normalizes open sexual health conversations.
Supports community health: Helps identify local outbreaks early.
Peace of mind: Removes uncertainty and anxiety around exposure.

Where to Get STBBI Testing

You can get STBBI testing at:

• Primary care clinics

• Walk-in medical centers

• Community sexual health clinics

• Urgent care centers

• Public health departments

• Planned Parenthood or similar reproductive health organizations

If you’re in Glen Burnie or nearby Maryland communities, Medhaven Health offers confidential, comprehensive testing services for STIs and blood-borne infections.

Treatment and Next Steps

If your STBBI test comes back positive:

• Follow your provider’s prescribed treatment plan.

• Avoid sexual activity until cleared.

• Notify recent partners (anonymously, if preferred).

• Return for a test of cure to confirm the infection is gone.

Kemi adds:

“Testing is not about judgment; it’s about empowerment. The more you know, the better you can protect your health and relationships.”

Key Takeaway

STBBI testing isn’t just for people with symptoms — it’s a vital part of preventive healthcare.
By understanding what STBBIs are and getting tested regularly, you take control of your health and help reduce community transmission.

Early detection, treatment, and safe practices keep you — and those you care about — healthy and confident.

Disclaimer: This is informational content, not a substitute for professional medical advice.