STI Screening

STI screening uses private tests to check for sexually transmitted infections, including infections without symptoms.

The tests selected depend on sexual contact, symptoms, previous results and when a possible exposure occurred. Screening can identify infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis and HIV infection. A clinician can explain which tests fit your circumstances and how results will be shared.

Testing may involve providing urine, a blood sample, a swab from a relevant body site, or a physical examination when symptoms need assessment. You may be asked confidential questions about recent sexual contact, contraception and symptoms. Accurate answers help the clinician choose the most appropriate sample sites and tests.

Urine and swab collection are generally straightforward; a blood draw can cause brief discomfort, bruising or light-headedness. Test performance depends on the infection, sample type and timing after exposure. Testing too soon can miss an infection, so a clinician may advise repeat testing or a different test when timing is uncertain.

An abnormal or positive result is reviewed with you in confidence. The next step may be confirmation, treatment, follow-up testing or referral to a sexual health service. You may also be advised about avoiding sexual contact temporarily, using barrier protection, and informing partners so they can seek testing and care.

Many sexually transmitted infections can cause no symptoms, while others may cause discharge, genital sores, pelvic pain, burning when urinating or a rash. Symptoms need clinical assessment because they may have more than one cause. Seek urgent care for severe pelvic or testicular pain, high fever, heavy bleeding or feeling very unwell.

Screening may be useful after new or unprotected sexual contact, when a partner has an infection, before starting a new relationship, or when symptoms develop. It can also be part of routine sexual health care. Pregnancy, sexual assault and known exposure need prompt individual advice because the testing and care plan may differ.

Start by booking with a GP or sexual health service. At the visit, describe any symptoms, relevant contact and medicines. The clinician recommends samples, explains collection and confirms how you will receive results. Ask what to avoid before testing, whether repeat testing may be needed, and how privacy is managed.

You can usually return to usual activities straight after sample collection. If there was a possible recent exposure, follow the clinic's advice about sex, condoms and repeat testing while results are pending. Contact the service if symptoms worsen or you develop new symptoms before your planned result discussion.

Physical risks are small and mainly relate to blood sampling or temporary swab discomfort. A negative result does not always settle a concern if a test was taken before it could detect an infection, if the wrong site was sampled, or if new exposure occurred afterwards. Follow-up advice is part of safe interpretation.

A sexual health clinician may offer focused diagnostic testing when you have symptoms, rather than a general screening set. Barrier protection, vaccination when appropriate, partner communication and timely treatment all contribute to prevention. Home collection may be available in some settings, but use a service that provides clear result follow-up.

GP practices and sexual health services can arrange STI screening. Choose a service that explains confidentiality, consent, result communication and follow-up. If you have symptoms, tell the booking team so they can advise on the most suitable appointment and sample collection.