Sexual Health Research Study
Many infections are easier to treat when they’re found early, but today’s tests still need to be faster and more accurate. To help improve future testing, researchers need real samples from sexually active adults to better understand how these infections appear in the body. This study will collect anonymous samples to support that work, and while it won’t provide test results, the team can guide participants to places that offer free and reliable STI testing.
PI: Matthew Hamill, M.D. Protocol #: IRB00541353
Fast Facts
Adults who have been sexually active within the past 3 months
Currently have an STI or at risk of getting one
Compensation
up to $40
Conducted in
Baltimore, MD
Additional Information
Researchers at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine are building a biorepository of anonymous biological samples, such as urine, swabs, and blood. These samples will help develop new diagnostic tests to improve patient care.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 18+
- Currently have an STI or at risk of getting one
- Risk factors include having more than one sexual partner, inconsistent condom use, or having a recent sexual partner with an STI
- Sexually active in the past 3 months
- Interested in sexual health
- Willing and able to provide biological samples (e.g., urine, swabs, blood) as part of this study
- Willing and able to attend a brief study visit at Johns Hopkins Hospital as part of this study
Before Your Visit
- Complete a brief phone interview with the study team to confirm eligibility
Your Study Visit
- Visit Johns Hopkins clinical research unit to give consent
- Collect your own samples (e.g., urine, swabs, blood)
- Answer a brief questionnaire
After Your Visit
- Most participants only need one visit; some may be invited for optional additional visits
- Your samples are anonymous and cannot be traced back to you
- This study does not provide test results, but the study team can guide you to free STI testing
Participants will receive $40 for their time and samples. Transportation assistance, such as bus tokens or a parking voucher, is available. Perks include snacks and free sexual health advice from an expert clinician, and the study team can help you get free STI testing with results provided directly to you.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.