Bellarmine University Student Health Services Clinic providers are very sensitive to the issues of our students surrounding sexual and reproductive health. Students are encouraged to discuss their needs, questions, and concerns within the context of an appointment. All conversations are held in the strictest of confidence. While we promote Catholic Church teaching, we also respectfully recognize that we serve many students of varying religious traditions and beliefs. Bound by medical ethics, within the context of college health and Catholic tradition regarding human sexuality, students receive sound medical advice regarding sexual and reproductive health in order to be empowered to make their own informed decisions regarding healthy relationships that are consistent with their personal beliefs. Students interested in extended conversations or clarifications on sexuality and Catholic teaching are encouraged to contact our Campus Ministry staff.
STI Testing FAQ's
Nationally 1 in 2 sexually active people will get an STI by the age of 25. Most won't know it. Testing is the only way to find out if you have an STI. Know yourself and know your status regarding STI's. Source
Who should get tested? How often?
All sexually active men and women, especially if under the age of 26, should be tested annually. Also, get tested if there are symptoms and more often if you change/add partners.
I don't have any symptoms. Do I still need testing?
Yes. The most common bacterial STI (chlamydia) does not have symptoms in the majority of people. Other STIs also frequently do not produce symptoms. Untreated STIs can cause infertility and Cancer later in life.
Which STI's should I be tested for?
If you have symptoms, you may need testing for other STI's such as gonorrhea, syphilis, and herpes. Your health care provider will guide you through this question.
Do I have to have an exam?
It depends on whether you have symptoms. It is best to discuss that with a health care provider. An appointment at the BU clinic is free, and it is the easiest way to decide what is best for you.
Doesn’t my doctor’s office at home automatically test me for STD’s at my annual visit?
No, you may have to ask to be tested. Even if you have had a urine, blood test, or pap test, it doesn’t automatically mean STI testing was done. Ask to be sure.
Do I need to pay for testing at the STI Clinic?
Your exam and pregnancy testing are free, but STI testing requires lab fees, which depends upon your insurance coverage. We refer students that do not wish to have their insurance charged to a Health Department clinic in the area for low cost, comprehensive STI testing. Call 502.574.6699 for information.
What will happen if I become pregnant?
At Bellarmine University, we will do everything we can to support you in the event of a pregnancy. Information about your pregnancy will be treated sensitively and will be passed on only on a need to know basis with your consent. Members of staff will provide you with relevant information to enable you to make informed decisions and will not attempt to influence your decisions with regard to your pregnancy or course studies. In addition to Health Services personnel, we encourage students to discuss their pregnancy in confidence with our Counseling Center and Campus Ministry staff.
We will work with you to develop and deliver a pregnancy support plan to ensure reasonable adjustments are made and your needs are met during your pregnancy, following the birth and when you return to course study.
In addition to our office, students may access support and accommodations through the Title IX Office as pregnancy and pregnancy-related medical needs are covered by Title IX (federal law). If you have questions related to your rights under Title IX, please visit the Pregnant and Parenting Policy which can be found on the Title IX website. You may also reach out to Chief Title IX Officer, Allison Schumacher Smithkier