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Screen yourself for the most common Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) including Syphilis, Hepatitis B & C, Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea and HIV to have complete peace of mind.

Up to 80% of STIs have are asymptomatic, meaning that they do not display any symptoms, however, if symptoms do occur, they are likely to present themselves within two weeks of infection. If left untreated, STIs can cause everything from abdominal pain and infertility to more life-threatening conditions like cancer and incurable conditions.

Regular STI testing can help you detect any unknown infections and treat them before they cause any long-term problems. Many STIs can be cured with antibiotics, and/or managed with other medication to minimise risk to you and others.

What are the most common symptoms of STIs?

• Painful urination
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Rash on the genitals and/or anus
• Itching or irritation on the genitals and/or anus
• Unusual lumps or bumps around the genitals and/or anus
• Change in colour of the male or female discharge
• Abnormal discharge in terms of smell, consistency, or volume
• Strong vaginal odour
• Painful erections

Who is a STI test recommended for?

A STI test is recommended if you have:

• had unprotected sexual intercourse.
• have a partner who has been diagnosed with an STI.
• have entered a new sexual relationship with someone.
• are experiencing symptoms that are common with the presence of an STI.

How do I get tested for STIs?

Most STI Health Tests will check for all, or some, of the following biomarkers

Chlamydia
Chlamydia is a common STI that affects both males and females and generally shows no symptoms. If left untreated, it can result in serious health complications and can easily, and unknowingly, be spread to partner

Gonorrhoea
Gonorrhoea can cause infections in the genitals, rectum and throat. It is especially common among young adults. Some men, and most women, experience no symptoms so early detection is essential.

Syphilis
When your body is infected with Syphilis, your immune system will produce antibodies to fight the infection. A STI or Syphilis test will look for these antibodies, to determine whether you are infected with Syphilis or not.

HIV 1 & 2 antibodies
When your body is infected with HIV, your immune system will produce antibodies to fight the infection. A complete STI or HIV test will look for these antibodies, to determine whether you are infected with HIV or not.

Hepatitis B & C
Hepatitis can cause inflammation and scarring of the liver, possible leading to irreparable liver damage and is usually transmitted by blood-to-blood contact, such as through shared needles, but it can also be transmitted from a mother to her unborn baby, and through unprotected sex.

Herpes
Herpes is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). HSV-I has been associated with oral herpes (cold sores), whereas HSV-II has been associated with genital herpes. This urine test identifies if you have an active herpes infection. After the initial infection, HSV can become dormant (inactive) in certain nerve cells of the body. A further blood test (which can be purchased separately) is required to identify those who carry the dormant virus.

Key points:

• The most common Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) include Syphilis, Hepatitis B & C, Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea and HIV
• Up to 80% of STIs have are asymptomatic, meaning that they do not display any symptoms, however, if symptoms do occur, they are likely to present themselves within two weeks of infection.
• Regular STI testing can help you detect any unknown infections and treat them before they cause any long-term problems

How a Sample is Taken

With most health tests, there are two options for taking a sample of blood, which is used to test for certain biomarkers. The two most common options are a finger-prick or venous draw:

Finger prick Draw:
Health Tests that take blood via the ‘finger-prick’ method are usually done within the comfort of your own home, enabling you to take a small amount of blood discreetly and conveniently when you want to.

Venous Draw:
Once you have booked your health test, you’ll be sent the blood kit which includes all the equipment needed for a professional blood draw by an experienced healthcare professional, with clinics available across the UK to take your sample.

Details about which option is available for this health test, are available when you compare the results.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is it best to be tested for just one or all the STIs?

  Most tests will check for more than one STIs, giving you peace of mind. It is often more cost effective to be tested for more than one STI at once, rather than do them singularly.