Rethinking STI Testing Guidelines for the Consensually Non-Monogamous Community 

When it comes to public health guidelines in the U.S., the CDC is often seen as the authority. Its recommendations shape healthcare practices nationwide.

But here’s the problem—when it comes to STI testing, these guidelines don’t quite cut it, especially for the consensually non-monogamous (CNM) community.

A Quick Look at the CNM Community 
The CNM community refers to individuals who openly and ethically maintain relationships with multiple partners. Contrary to stereotypes, many in this community are particularly diligent about sexual health.

They understand that sexual health isn’t just a personal responsibility; it impacts their partners, too.

Here’s where the CDC’s guidelines don’t quite add up for this conscientious group.  

Where the CDC Guidelines Miss the Mark  
The CDC develops its guidelines based on broad population-level data, overseen by panels like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. While this approach works on a large scale, it often misses critical nuances for specific groups, like the CNM community.  

1. Gonorrhea & Chlamydia Testing
The CDC suggests testing only in specific cases, excluding several groups. For instance, men who have sex with women may not be routinely tested for these infections. The assumption? That their risk isn’t significant enough.

2. Syphilis Testing
This one’s a head-scratcher. Recommendations here rely on factors such as age, race, history of incarceration, or sex work—an approach that feels outdated and superficial. Why not focus on behaviors, like whether someone has multiple partners?  

3. Trichomoniasis Testing
And here’s where things go off the rails. Trichomoniasis testing isn’t addressed for men at all.

Why This Matters  
Here’s the harsh truth—treating everyone as a statistic instead of an individual puts people at risk.

It’s like the guidelines forgot that real humans are involved, and they deserve better. Sure, I get that population-level science has a place, but what happens when it leaves entire communities behind?  

For example, denying someone testing based on their age or assuming their monogamy is not just frustrating—it’s actively harmful. “Oh, you’re 45? Surely, you’re monogamous by now.”

Really? Is that how this works?  

A Better Way Forward  
Here’s a novel idea that’s both simple and fair: if someone asks for STI testing, give them thorough STI testing. Period.

No qualifiers based on demographics. No outdated assumptions about behavior. Do you really lose anything by being proactive instead of reactive?  

If someone wants peace of mind, why make it more complicated than it needs to be?  

Final Thoughts  
If you’d like to be tested for 13 different sexually transmitted diseases, in the comfort of your own home, we have you covered at Shameless Care. Yes, 13 different STIs. Why? Because quite frankly, every one of them is important.