Should I get a test?

[uniqueflower]

First, let me say thank you for the website and help lines.  They've
been a great resource to me.

I am a 23 year old straight male, whom over the last several years has
had multiple CSW partners.  I've always used a condom for vaginal
sex, but not always for oral sex.

I was doing research on getting tested for STDs.  I currently don't
have any symptoms and I'm not aware of any of my previous partners
getting an STD.  I came across the Mayo Clinic site that said straight
men who don't have any symptoms don't have to get regularly tested for
STDs, according to the CDC:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/std-testing/ID00047 "Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines don't suggest routine
STD screening if you don't have any symptoms, unless your sexual
practices include having sex with men."

The reason I am hesitant to get tested is that I have a phobia of
needles - the last time I had to give blood I actually passed out.  I
don't want to get tested unless its absolutely necessary.  Everywhere
else I look recommends getting tested regularly, but I trust the CDC
and Mayo Clinic.  I'm okay with a urine test, or even a test that
pricks your finger, but probably can't voluntarily go through a blood
test or penis swab - but I'm not sure if the previous two are even
offered.

Do you recommend yearly testing, even though I don't show any
symptoms, always use protection, and never had a male partner?  If you
do, what should I get tested for, and do they offer urine and finger
***** tests instead of blood tests and swabs?

Thanks for your help!

[Vance2335]

Blood draws are required for syphilis (rare for it to infect straight men in developed countries) and herpes. All other can be urine tests and for HIV there are many different tests that can be done.

[uniqueflower]

Thanks for your post - its a real help!

Do they offer urine and finger-prik tests to check for these STDs, or do you think I will have to give blood through a vein?  I wish the clinics (like Planned Parenthood and others) would list on the websites the ways they test, but most just say they offer the tests.

[Vance2335]

I do suggest yearly testing no matter who you have sex with unless it is in a committed relationship. Now as long as you use condoms for vaginal/anal sex then you don't have much to worry about. From oral sex you can get gonorrhea, NGU, herpes and syphilis. Gonorrhea and NGU are the most common and without symptoms probably means you don't have it. Herpes and syphilis are not as common through oral sex and syphilis is rare in most countries (developed countries)
But as I said I do recommend testing, this allows you to know your status so if you do find a committed relationship that you are confident going in that you do not have a STD to pass along.