Testing and Treatment


Why get tested?

Many people who have an STI (sexually transmissible infection) don’t have symptoms, so may not even know they have one. Testing and using condoms are the best ways to stay in total control of your sexual health. If left untreated some STIs can cause unpleasant symptoms and could lead to long-term problems such as infertility.

When should I get tested?

It’s a good idea to have regular sexual health check-ups once you start having sex, when you change sexual partners or start a new relationship. You and your partner should get tested before you stop using condoms.

See your doctor if you have had unsafe sex or have symptoms such as pain, discharge or itching in your genital area.

Where can I get tested?

Your doctor, family planning clinic or sexual health clinic can offer STI testing. Having a test is simple and painless.

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Is testing confidential?

Yes. Doctors are legally obliged to keep information that a patient gives them confidential, regardless of their age. However, if there are issues that raise concerns about patients under the age of 16 then the doctor may take steps to ensure their safety.

Will anyone be informed of my test results?

The results of STI testing are completely confidential. The results are stored in your medical files. Sexual health clinics normally keep separate records to the files kept by your doctor or local hospital.

All notifiable diseases (including chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, HIV) are recorded by relevant health departments for the purpose of keeping statistical records.

Are STI tests expensive?

The cost depends on the tests required and where you go. Many clinics offer low-cost or even free testing for young people. Just ask when you make your appointment.

How will I know what test to have?

There is no single test to detect all STIs. Your doctor will ask you about any symptoms and discuss your sexual history. They’ll use the information from your conversation to work out the tests you should have. STIs such as gonorrhoea and chlamydia, can be detected soon after you have been infected, even if you show no obvious signs. However, some STIs (like HIV) won’t show a positive result as quickly and your doctor will advise you on when to be re-tested.

How are STIs tested?

As a general rule you will have either a urine test, a swab, a blood test or a simple physical examination. The type of test depends on which STI is being treated.

What is the treatment if I test positive?

If you have an STI your doctor will talk with you about the infection and if there is a need for further tests and the sort of treatments involved.

Bacterial STIs such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea can be easily treated with antibiotics. Other STIs such as herpes and genital warts can be managed to decrease your symptoms.

While treatment for HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is continually improving, at present there is still no cure for this potentially life-threatening infection.

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Do I have to tell anyone that I have an STI?

If you test positive, you should tell your recent sexual partners so they can be tested too. One of them may have passed it on to you unknowingly. Many clinics will provide you with letters or other ways to help minimise the embarrassment of getting in touch with former partners.

In most cases you’re not obliged to notify teachers or your boss if you’ve been diagnosed with an STI, but there are some rare exceptions for certain professionals who have been diagnosed with a blood-borne virus like HIV or hepatitis B. Ask your doctor for advice if you are unsure.

Can I still have sex if I have an STI?

For the more common STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhoea, avoid sex until you’ve finished your full course of treatment and for at least a week following. If you do have sex you should use a condom. For other STIs like genital warts and HIV it’s best to talk to your doctor about the options.

Where to get help

If you need more information or advice you can talk to your doctor or visit your local sexual health clinic.

See the Where to Get Help page.

You’ll hear plenty of excuses when it comes to condoms and STIs. Don’t let lovers gamble with your health – keep these cards up your sleeve!

Spin the wheel to discover the many risks of sex without a condom.


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