When to test - the 'Window Period'?

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STI testing too quickly after you have run a risk of infection may result in a false negative (no infection found) result being given to you as infections may not show up on the test for some weeks.

When testing for Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea it is recommended that tests are taken from you two weeks after your risk (sex with the person you are worried about). When carrying out STI testing for HIV and Syphilis (blood tests) tests should be done 12 weeks after your risk.

If there is a specific incident which puts you at risk, it is recommended that you repeat your tests to ensure that any possible infection is not missed.

Home urine sampling kits

Many bacterial infections in both men and women can be screened using a laboratory technique called Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) on a single urine sample.  

You can screen for Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Mycoplasma, Ureaplasma , Trichomonas Vaginalis, Gardnerella Vaginalis and  Herpes Simplex Virus I and II by ordering a postal pack from the internet which will allow you to send a urine sample for testing. 

Results of sexual health screening tests come back by email or confidential text message. If the results are negative no further action is required and if they are positive then either private referral can be arranged or the patient can make their own arrangements via their GP or local NHS GUM Clinic.

Order a home urine sampling kit

Home blood sampling kits for HIV, Hepatitis and Syphyllis

You can also order a Home Blood Sampling Kit to screen for HIV, Hepatitis and Syphyllis.

Results come back by email or confidential text message. If the results are negative no further action is required and if they are positive then either private referral can be arranged or the patient can make their own arrangements via their GP or local NHS GUM Clinic.

At the moment you will need to arrange for someone to take your blood sample but new kits will be available soon that allow you to take a finger prick sample at home:-

• Your local GP practice by your GP

• Your GP’s Practice Nurse

• A Local Private Clinic

• A Local Private Hospital (eg SPIRE, Nuffield, BMI, Ramsay Healthcare)

Some clinics or hospitals offer a walk-in service.

A sample taking fee may be charged.

 Order a home blood sampling kit

How will I get my results?

You can choose to have  your results by email, telephone, post or via our confidential text service.

What can you do if the screening test identifies an infection?

You have the option of consulting your own GP who will probably advise referral to an NHS Genitourinary Medicine Clinic or you may self refer to one. They will discuss issues such as contact tracing and any further testing or examination that may be advised.

Alternatively you can attend a private specialist in Genitourinary Medicine based in one of our clinics.

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