Your Questions Answered
Getting tested for STIs is an important step for your health — and it’s completely normal to feel a bit nervous about it. At ZoeCare, we’re here to make sure you feel safe, respected, and empowered throughout the entire process. Here’s what to expect at your appointment so there are no surprises!
How Can I Prepare? Thankfully, there’s not a lot you need to do. For accuracy of results, it is strongly recommended that testing is performed at least 2 weeks from your most recent sexual encounter — testing too soon may produce inaccurate results. Please come well hydrated, and there’s no need to fast! If you forget to eat or are dehydrated, we have snacks and water available. Male patients who will be providing a urine sample should avoid urinating for 1–2 hours before their appointment.
What if I Have My Period? Your menstrual cycle does not normally affect our ability to test you — the exception being a very heavy period. If you have any concerns about timing, feel free to speak with our nursing staff!
Do I Need to Bring Anything? All of ZoeCare’s services are provided free of charge, so you won’t need an insurance card. We do ask for a valid form of ID so we can confirm your identity and prescribe medication for treatment if necessary.
Is My Information Kept Private? Yes! As a HIPAA-compliant sexual healthcare clinic, your health and privacy come first. Any conversations, exams, and test results stay on a need-to-know basis within your care team. All information is confidential, except when required by law or shared with your consent. If you have any privacy concerns, please call us at (406) 586-9444 or click here to view our patient privacy notice.
What Happens at My Appointment? Your provider will begin with a Sexual Health Assessment to evaluate your risk for various infections and determine appropriate testing per CDC guidelines. You’ll be asked about your sexual activity, any current symptoms or concerns, and general questions about vaccines and allergies. From there, we will develop a personalized testing plan, which may include testing for:
Gonorrhea, Chlamydia, HIV, Syphilis, Herpes Simplex Virus 1 & 2, Trichomoniasis, Hepatitis B & C, UTIs, Vaginitis, and more.
A pelvic exam may also be offered depending on your assessment. All self-collected tests are performed in a private patient bathroom, and any physician-collected swabs are done in a private exam room with a nurse or clinical assistant present.
Will Testing Hurt? STI testing is generally well tolerated, though you may experience slight discomfort in sensitive areas if you are currently symptomatic. For blood draws, we use small needles, offer snacks and water, and can draw your sample while you’re lying down if needed.
How Long Does It Take? Most appointments run between 20 and 45 minutes, and testing is usually completed in a single visit.
How Will I Get My Results? All specimens are sent to Bozeman Health lab, with results typically returned within 1–3 business days. We’ll contact you by phone call, voicemail, or HIPAA-secure text based on your preference. If you have a MyChart account, you may receive results before your physician has reviewed them.
What if I Test Positive? If a result comes back positive, you’ll be notified promptly and provided with clear information about treatment, what to expect, and any additional testing or referrals needed. Our physician and nursing staff are available and responsive to any follow-up questions or concerns.
Can I Get Tested Even Without Symptoms? Yes – and you should! Many infections can be present without any symptoms at all. If you’ve been sexually active, you are potentially at risk, and regular testing is always a good idea.
We’re proud of you for taking this step. Getting accurate information is empowering, and knowing your health status will guide you as you continue to make informed choices about your sexual health. We’re here for you every step of the way.morbi et augue nec, in id ulla
