Our comprehensive sexual health screen packages cover all of the main sexually transmitted diseases. The packages include testing for the most common sexually-transmitted diseases. We also provide add-on swab options to suit your particular circumstances. Following testing, we offer a telephone consultation with a nurse if your results are abnormal and any prescriptions you might require.
When should I get tested?
In general, good times to get an STI test include the following:
- Having a new sexual partner
- You had sex with someone who has an STI
- You had sex without a condom or the condom broke
- You’ve noticed changes in your body
- You’re experiencing STI-related symptoms
- It’s been more than 3-6 months since your last test, and either you or your partner/s have other sexual partners
The Comprehensive Sexual Health Screen includes:
- Blood Test for HIV, Syphilis, Hepatitis B & Hepatitis C
- Urine test for Chlamydia & Gonorrhoea
- If you are symptomatic, the clinician might recommend additional testing such as swabs specific to your circumstances and symptoms. These are not included in the package and cost £65 each.
Procedure
Keeping yourself sufficiently hydrated makes blood taking easier. For accuracy of the urine test results you should hold urine for 2 hours prior to the appointment.
During the testIf you are experiencing symptoms, you will have a consultation with an experienced doctor, who will discuss your options for testing. Your consultation may involve personal questions about your medical and sexual history, your typical methods of contraception, and other questions about your sex life, sexual practices, and sexual partners. If you want to have testing but do not have any symptoms, your consultation will be with a sexual health specialist nurse.
All information given during your visit will be treated confidentially. Personal details and test results will not be shared with anyone outside of the sexual health service without your permission.
HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B and C are testing for with a blood sample. Chlamydia, gonorrhoea are tested for by a urine sample. Additional swabs and urine tests might be recommended depending on your symptoms.
Blood and urine. Swab when appropriate
Results
Your privacy has absolute importance. You can choose how you would like to receive the results. You can be called by a doctor, emailed, or you can contact us yourself at your convenience.
FAQ
If you do have a sexually transmitted infection, it is important that your partner is tested and treated. We recommend that you abstain from sex or in some cases, only practice safe sex until you know your results and window periods have passed.
There is no one profile of tests that is recommended for everyone but we offer various packages that we feel cover the majority of cases. It can be helpful to talk to a doctor about the kinds of sexual health tests that are appropriate for you with regard to your lifestyle and potential risk factors.
If you have had unprotected sex or are worried by any symptoms, we recommend coming in for a test as soon as possible. Depending on the appropriate window periods, certain tests can be repeated later if necessary. Give us a call to speak to a member of our team who can talk you through the process and advise you on when to make your appointment.