STIs

How will I be treated?

Don’t be worried or embarrassed. Workers in sexual health clinics are there to help, not to judge you.

What will I have to do?

If you go to a clinic (eg GUM or Family Planning) the reception staff will give you a form to fill out asking for details such as your name, address and date of birth (you don’t have to fill all of it in). Any information you give is confidential and will not get passed onto your usual doctor. A doctor, nurse or health adviser will see you, and you can ask to see a male or female staff member if you prefer. They will ask you about any symptoms, about your general health and any medicines that you’re taking.

Workers in sexual health clinics are there to help, not to judge you.

They will ask you about your recent sexual activity (you don’t need to name partners), so that you can agree the tests that you need to get. You’ll also find out how you will get the results of your tests. Nothing will be sent to your house unless you agree to this. You may need to phone, or come back in, depending on the type of test.

Do the tests hurt?

The tests themselves will involve giving a blood or urine sample, having a swab taken from inside the vagina or the tip of the penis, and maybe the mouth or anus, depending on what you’re being tested for. STI tests are not painful. They may be a little uncomfortable, but only for a short time.

What happens next?

If you do have an STI you will need to go back to the clinic to discuss your treatment options. The doctor or nurse may also want to know how to reach your sexual partner(s) so that they can also come in for a test.

I want more info

For more information on STIs, symptoms and treatments, visit our STI quick guide section, or visit a Healthy Respect drop-in.

STI quick guide How can I protect myself and my partner? What are the symptoms? Where can you get tested?