I decided to get an STI test for the first time last year after having unprotected sex twice with two different people within a short space of time.
I phoned St James's and they offered me an appointment in six weeks' time. Even though I was given a time for my appointment I still had to take a ticket at reception and wait in a large waiting area.
The place was a bit run down in my view and a lot of people there looked really sick. I just freaked out and left. I was so scared I had something that going somewhere where lots of people seemed like they had something was a real reality check. So rather than stay and face it, I left. I think the first time you go and get an STI test it's a big deal.
I expected a clinic, and it didn't seem like that. I wanted the space to support my need to feel comfortable and it just didn't. It wasn't a comforting place.
The very next day, I made an appointment with a private clinic. Even though it cost €140, I felt so much at ease there compared to St James's and thankfully I got the all clear. I've been back to the private clinic once since, but next time I'm getting tested,
I've decided to go back to St James's, because I'll know what to expect and because it's free. The six weeks waiting for my appointment in St James's was very stressful. I think there is definitely a need to provide more available free STI testing.
People like me in their 20s are much more aware of their sexual health nowadays. Girls are as concerned that they've caught an STI after unprotected sex than the possibility of being pregnant. I think anyone who's sexually active should get tested regularly, because even if you use condoms, you can still catch an STI.
* Some names have been changed to protect identities