You're not alone. We're here to help.

Testing is usually quick and involves simple samples, with privacy protections — and there is nothing to be ashamed of. Find clear answers about STIs and free testing across Arkansas.

Find testing near you Explore STI resources Talk to someone: (501) 661-4700

What would you like to know?

Choose a topic below to get clear, honest information in plain language. No medical jargon, no judgment.

What Are STIs?

Learn the basics about sexually transmitted infections, how they spread, and why testing is important for everyone.

Learn more

What Happens at a Test?

Step-by-step guide to what to expect during your visit, from check-in to getting your results.

See what to expect

Treatment & Support

If you test positive, find out about treatment options, follow-up care, and where to get support.

Get support info

How to Talk About It

Word-for-word scripts for talking with providers and partners — plus how to bring up substance use with someone you care about.

Get the scripts

Youth

Information designed for teens and young adults. Learn about your rights, privacy, and how to stay healthy.

Youth resources

Quick Actions

Your Privacy Rights

Learn about your privacy rights, how your information is protected, and what "confidential" and "anonymous" mean.

 Learn about privacy

Order Naloxone

Get free naloxone (Narcan) through End Overdose, shipped to you at no cost.

 Order free naloxone

Find Substance Use Treatment

Find treatment and recovery services near you through FindTreatment.gov, or call the free, confidential SAMHSA Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357), any time. Ask individual services about cost and eligibility.

 Find treatment

Where Do I Get Tested?

Use our directory to find free, confidential testing locations near you. Get directions and contact info.

Free testing is available. Ask which tests are offered and how results, billing, and privacy are handled.

Find locations

Statewide Testing Directory

Find free and confidential testing at your local Arkansas health unit.

Find a location

Common Questions

Honest answers to questions people ask most about STIs and testing.

Can I have an STI with no symptoms?
Yes. Many STIs cause no symptoms. Testing can find infections that need treatment, even when you feel well. Ask a healthcare provider which tests and testing schedule are right for you.
Can I get an STI from oral sex?
Yes. Giving or receiving oral sex can spread infections such as gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, and chlamydia. Tell your provider about oral sex so you can discuss whether a throat swab or other tests are needed.
Can I get an STI from a public toilet seat?
No. You do not get genital STIs from using a public toilet seat. These infections spread through specific sexual contact, contact with an infected area, or blood exposure, depending on the infection.
Can I get an STI more than once?
Yes. You can get infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and hepatitis C again after treatment. Other infections, such as herpes and HIV, remain in the body. Completing treatment, caring for partners, and following your testing plan help protect your health.
Are condoms 100% effective?
No. Correct, consistent condom use greatly reduces the risk of HIV and many STIs, but does not eliminate it. Infections such as herpes, HPV, and syphilis can spread from skin a condom does not cover. Use a new, correctly fitting condom each time, check its expiry date, and keep it away from extreme temperatures. Vaccines, PrEP, and, for some people, doxy PEP can add protection against specific infections; ask a provider what is right for you. Other birth control methods prevent pregnancy, not STIs.
Can STIs be cured?
Some STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis, can be cured with the right medicine. Hepatitis C is usually curable with antiviral treatment. HIV and herpes have no cure, but medicines can help people stay well and reduce transmission. HPV often clears on its own; treatment addresses warts or other problems it causes. Take all medicine exactly as prescribed and return if symptoms persist.
Does using drugs or alcohol change my STI risk?
It can. Being high or drunk can make it harder to use protection or can lead to situations you didn’t plan. Sharing needles or drug equipment can pass HIV and hepatitis C. This isn’t about blame; it just means testing matters, and you can care for your substance use and sexual health together.
I’m in recovery or using substances. Where can I get support?
For substance use treatment and recovery, use SAMHSA’s free, confidential locator at FindTreatment.gov or call 1-800-662-HELP (4357), any time. For sexual health, you can find free, confidential testing near you.