STI Testing and Treatment

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) - also called sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) – are often caused by bacteria or viruses, and are typically passed from one person to another during sexual contact. STIs are spread most often during unprotected oral, vaginal, or anal intercourse. However, some infections – like HPV and herpes – may be passed by skin-to-skin contact.

“It’s self-care really, just like you would go to the dentist for regular checkups,”

Jennifer Metzgar, FNP

Jennifer Metzgar FNP Hammond Health Center Ithaca College.

Photo credit: KRISTEN HARRISON/THE ITHACAN

STIs are very common – more than half of us will get one at some time in our lives.

One thing STIs have in common is that they can be passed from one person to another even when no symptoms are present.

Good News! We can protect ourselves, and each other from infection. Practicing safer sex allows you to reduce your risk of getting an STI. If you believe you're at risk of infection, getting tested (whether or not you have symptoms) allows you to get any treatments you may need.

I DO NOT have symptoms but want to be tested.

Ithaca College's STI Express is for you!

The Ithaca College Hammond Health Center is offering a new sexually transmitted infection express clinic (STI Express) to make STI testing more accessible to students.

The clinic was implemented in Spring 2019 and operates from 4 to 6:30 p.m. one day every week.
The clinic is for students who do not have symptoms of STIs and looking to have a routine or baseline STI test.

Read the article about STI Express in the Ithacan.

I have STI symptoms. What do I do?

Make an appointment through your myICHealth or

Call the Hammond Health Center (607) 274-3177 to make an appointment.

“I think the clinic is a good idea, especially in college where people are trying new things and sex is included as one of those things,” McGee said. “I think Ithaca College provides a lot of good opportunities for safe sex practices, and then this additional STI testing just makes it even better.”

Sophomore Abigail McGee (from Ithacan article noted above)

STI prevention

You can lower your risk of contracting STIs (and/or unplanned pregnancy) in the following ways:

Participate in sexual experiences that are respectful, consensual, and affirming
Talk with your partner about the kinds of sexual experiences you want (and don’t want)
Assume that any sexual partner has an STI, and plan accordingly for protection
Buy safer sex supplies and/or birth control supplies and keep them where they are needed
Get immunized against Hepatitis A and B, and Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)
Consider the risks associated with sex under the influence of alcohol and/or other drugs
Consider the risks associated with sexual activity facilitated by online hook-up apps
Think about what challenges (if any) make it difficult to maintain your commitment to practicing safer sex, and make plans to circumvent those challenges
Get support if you feel confused, frustrated, or overwhelmed; Hammond Health Center is here for these and other sexual health issues.

STI's at Ithaca College

During the 2017–18 academic year, 6% of all IC students tested for STIs had positive test results for chlamydia.

The rate has decreased since the 2014–15 academic year when the rate was 8%.

During that same time, the number of students getting tested increased from 490 to 947.

Get Tested - Know your status.