What does STI screening treat?

Depending on your symptoms, sexual contacts, and the type of exposure, screening may check for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, HIV infection, or other infections. Testing can involve urine, a swab, or a blood sample. A clinician chooses tests based on the body sites involved, because an infection may be present without obvious symptoms.

A positive result leads to a treatment plan rather than treatment from the test itself. Bacterial infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and syphilis are treated with prescribed antibiotics. HIV infection is managed with ongoing antiviral treatment. Genital herpes is managed with advice and medicines when needed; treatment does not remove the virus.

Follow the testing service's instructions about preparing samples and when to expect results. If a result is positive, take the prescribed treatment as directed, avoid sexual contact until your clinician says it is safe, and tell recent partners when advised so they can be assessed. Do not share someone else's medicine or use leftover antibiotics.

Ask whether you need repeat testing, partner notification, or a check for pelvic inflammatory disease if you have lower abdominal pain, pain during sex, unusual bleeding, or fever. Confidential sexual health services can explain options without judgement.

Seek urgent care for severe lower abdominal pain, fainting, high fever, rapidly worsening genital pain, or a painful rash with difficulty passing urine. These symptoms can need prompt examination.

Get urgent medical advice after a recent possible HIV exposure, because preventive treatment may be time-sensitive. Arrange testing promptly if you have sores, discharge, burning urine, unusual bleeding, or a partner has told you they have an infection.

Which infections should I test for based on my exposure? Which sample is needed, and when will results be reliable? If a result is positive, what treatment and partner advice will I need? Should I also be checked for HIV or syphilis?