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Question:
My potential future wife (we will not sleep together until marriage) has had two previous partners. I have had none. What type of STD testing (if any) should she (we) have before marriage. I have heard that HIV can have no physical effects for a long time so this worries me.

Answer:
by Yvonne Fulbright:
(05/29/2004)
If you are concerned that either you or your partner may have HIV from previous sexual relationships, both of you could take an HIV antibody test. You could have this test at a health center or at a physician's office and opt for anonymous (that uses a code or number instead of your name) or confidential (only you and the physician will know your information) testing. Regarding other STDs, your partner could go for tests at a health center or doctor's office. STDs that she should get tested for, because they can be asymptomatic (without symptoms), include chlamydia, herpes, and genital warts. A physician will ask her appropriate questions, given the reason for her visit, and will test her for any health concerns accordingly. Should she test positive with any sexually transmitted infections, it is a good idea for you to get tested as well since certain STDs, like genital warts, can be spread by skin-on-skin contact. Thank you for visiting the Sexual Health Network. Yvonne K. Fulbright, MS.Ed.

Reviewed by Sexual Health Editorial Team

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