STD tests are often part of a normal physical for many patients, though they may be left out of the usual tests if a patient is in a low-risk category. STD tests can also be separately administered for people in high-risk groups, or for those who think they may have been

“It’s not just one talk,” says Sarah Saxbe, MS, MSW, LISW-S, project manager for health education at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Ultimately, the goal should be to “be an askable parent,” that is available for questions about sex and healthy relationships.