Skip to Main Content

On Feb. 21, 2024, Change Healthcare experienced a cyber security incident. Any individuals impacted by this incident will receive a letter in the mail. To learn more about this from Change Healthcare, please click here or reach out to the contact center at 1-866-262-5342.

Make Your Sexual Health a Priority

Date: 07/19/24

Sexual health is an important part of our overall well-being, just like physical and mental health. Practicing safe sex and getting regular screenings are the two best ways to keep yourself safe from STIs, or sexually transmitted infections. STIs are infections you can get from any kind of sexual activity.

As your health plan, Louisiana Healthcare Connections is here to support you on your health and wellness journey. Part of that support is covering the care you need to maintain your sexual health.

STI screenings are part of your health benefits and will not cost you a thing. Plus, our members can earn a $25 healthy reward when they get screened for HIV, gonorrhea and chlamydia in the same calendar year.

What STI screenings should I be getting?

Many STIs have no signs or symptoms. You or your partner could have an STI and not know it. The only way to know is to get tested. The good news is STI tests are usually quick, easy, and painless. And when found early, STIs can be either cured completely or treated to reduce symptoms.

The CDC recommends these screenings for most people once they become sexually active:

Learn more about STI symptoms, screenings and where to get tested.

As always, talk to your health care provider about any screenings you might need. With sexual health, it’s important to find a doctor you trust and feel comfortable with. Check out these tips on what to look for in a provider. You can use our Find A Provider tool to find a doctor in our network.

If you’re nervous about bringing up sexual health with your provider, don’t be! They’ve heard it all before. If you need a little help, check out these tips on how to bring it up with your doctor.

How do I prevent STIs?

Screenings alone can’t prevent getting or sharing STIs. But there are things you can do help prevent STIs like practicing safe sex. Here are some tips:

  • Use condoms every time you have sex.
  • Get tested regularly, and talk to any sexual partners about their sexual health.
  • Learn the signs and symptoms of STIs. If you notice any, visit a health care provider as soon as possible.
  • Get vaccinated! There are vaccines to protect against hepatitis B and HPV. Talk to your health care provider about them.