Seven things to know before getting an STI test

Thinking about getting an STI test? You should if you are experiencing any symptoms or if you have had unprotected sex with a new partner – symptoms or otherwise! Here are some things to know:

What type of test you might need

1. A test and screen are two different things

Your doctor will carry out a test if you are displaying symptoms of an STI. If you aren’t, but you have had unprotected sex, a screen will give you the all-clear on all STIs. This is also the service to go for if you are considering having unprotected sex with your partner.

2. Different STIs need different types of test

If you have a screen you may need to do a urine test and do a blood test. Your doctor will let you know. For basic chlamydia tests, such as those delivered by post, a urine or swab test will be required.

3. You no longer need to have a swab

A few years ago, some STDs required a rather uncomfortable swab – but today’s tests simply require a urine test. This means that there isn’t any discomfort and makes it far easier to have a home test.

Cost and convenience of testing

4. Screening is free

STI testing and screening is free when you use an NHS clinic or pharmacy, including GUM clinics and NHS postal services. There are plenty of places to have STI testing London wide, with home options and extended clinic options.

5. Testing is easy

You can eat and drink as normal before a screen, but if you’re going to give a urine sample, wait for a couple of hours beforehand for the clearest results. This is because the test is designed to collect the STD’s DNA – and a wee beforehand may clear too much of this out.

6. Results are fast

You’ll usually have just a couple of days to wait before getting your results. You can get a phone call or opt to log in to a secure website to see your results. Find out more at checkurself.org.uk/plus/

What happens after your test

7. You may be asked to return

Some STIs are visible immediately with a test, but some blood tests – HIV in particular – may not show up for a period of time after infection. In this case you may be asked to return, and your doctor will give you more advice.

Summary

This article lists things to know before an STI test: that a test differs from a screen, that different infections need different sample types such as urine, blood or swabs, that most modern tests no longer require a swab, that NHS testing and screening is free, and that a blood test such as for HIV may need a follow-up appointment if it does not show up straight away.

Questions this article raises

• How long does it usually take to get results from a home postal test?
• Which STIs still require a swab rather than a urine sample?
• How soon after unprotected sex should someone get tested?