I always used to only get tested every 3 months while getting my Depo-Provera shot, now that I am a provider I get tested for everything monthly.
I have always always always been a huge advocate of condoms unless you are with your life partner, I wont have sex (civi or hobby) without condoms.
Before it was suggested that being extra safe meant getting tested every three months, now experts suggest getting tested monthly if you have more than 1 partner a month.
There are a lot of free clinics that offer testing so that people don't have to worry about their SO finding out about them getting tested. A LOT of women in general feel uncomfortable getting tested because the nurses aren't always professional and ask personal questions about why a girl is getting tested. You can say you don't feel comfortable talking about it, say that you are a swinger (not far from the truth *Giggle*), or downright lie and say that you think you have a cheating spouse.
Safe, fun, and happy hobbying everyone
*Hugs*