STI testing can involve a urine sample, (self administered) vaginal swab, and a blood test, depending on the specific STIs being tested for.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are infections that are passed from one person to another through sexual contact. They can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites.
They are common and nothing to be embarrassed about. They can cause long term health complications though, so it's important you are aware of them.
If you have symptoms, or a sexual partner has told you that they have an STI
If you've got some unusual symptoms, it might be that you have an STI. Try not to worry, most are easily treatable. Please take a look at our information pages. These can give you some clues about your symptoms, and also help you in deciding if the sexual health clinic is the right place to go. Some things are best treated at a pharmacy, whilst others are best looked at by your GP. We want you to get the right treatment as quick as possible.
If you have symptoms of an STI, or you have been told that a sexual partner has an STI, you'll need to see one of our nurses.
Click here for details of our various clinic locations and here for our phone line opening times
If you don't have any symptoms
Often STIs can have no symptoms at all, which is why it's really important to get tested.
It is recommended that you test:
- Before and after each new sexual partner
- Every 3 months if you are regularly changing partners
- Every year if you're a female under the age of 25, to protect your fertility
- Every year if you're a man who has sex with other men
If you don't have symptoms, you can:
- Book into one of our Test and Go (TAG clinics). These are 15 minute appointments with a healthcare assistant, where you will be offered testing for Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, HIV, and Syphilis. You will receive a text message with your results within 10 days.
- Attend one of our Queue and Wait clinics
Visit our clinic page for more information.
If you are a young person aged 17 or under, visit our Young People page to find out more about alternative ways of testing.
Frequently Asked Questions:
We understand that all this talk of STIs might make you uneasy or throw up lots of questions. Here are some of our most frequently asked questions to help put you at ease. If you're question hasn't been answered, our team will be more than happy to answer it by phone or in clinic.
What does an STI test actually involve?
Will I need an intimate examination?
Not necessarily. If you do have symptoms, your doctor or nurse may offer to examine you to help them determine the cause and offer the best treatment, but it's always up to you. Your body, your choice.
What are some of the symptoms of STIs?
Symptoms can vary depending on the STI, but may include discharge, bumps, sores, rash, or pain during urination. Do remember though that many STIs can have no symptoms at all.
I'm worried because a partner has told me they have an STI
It's normal to feel uncomfortable when a partner notifies you that they have an STI, but it's great that they've let you know. You might not have an STI too, but it's really important that you get checked out.
Why do I need to test if I don't have symptoms?
Sometimes STIs have no symptoms, but can damage to your health if left untreated. By getting tested, you protect yourself and your sexual partners.
How can I protect myself against STIs?
Using condoms is your best protection against STIs. Order them here for free! You can also protect yourself by testing, and asking any sexual partners to get tested too. Clear and open communication is a great way to keep everyone safe.
Will I have to disclose my sexual history?
When you attend for a consultation, we'll go through a series of questions with you to determine the best course of action to treat your symptoms. This includes asking about your sexual history. Remember that our service is completely confidential - you are given a unique identification number that does not link with any other system, such as the GP or hospital, so you can feel confident that your answers will not be shared without your permission. Our team are highly experienced sexual healthcare professionals, who are here to give you outstanding care - no embarrassment, no judgement.
How long after sex should I wait to get tested?
It can take up to two weeks for chlamydia and gonorrhea to show up in a test, four weeks for HIV, and twelve weeks for syphilis. If you think you have been in contact with an STI, please do not wait twelve weeks for testing, as we recommend that you undertake initial testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea after two weeks.
If I didn't have penetrative sex, could I still get an STI?
Yes, STIs can be spread through oral, anal, and vaginal sex.
Latest News
28th August 2025