What Is STI Testing?
There are lots of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and many of them have their own symptoms.
However, some don’t have any symptoms but can still cause long-term problems, like not being able to have children.
It’s important to find out what the different STIs are, and how they can be detected, treated and, most importantly, how to avoid catching them.
There are some infections which are not transmitted by having sex but it’s still important to know about these.
Why Get Tested
STIs are on the increase, with many showing no symptoms it is possible to have an STI and not even know about it.
A regular STI test can help to detect infections early and help to reduce the risk of further complications. The complete STI check is perfect if you are concerned about your sexual health due to a recent event, presence of symptoms, a change in sexual partner or if you simply want peace of mind. It is important to consider that most STIs have an incubation period following a sexual encounter. During this period, an STI may not be detected, you may need to wait several weeks following the sexual activity.
- HIV – For accuracy the best time to take the test is 6 weeks after exposure, however early detection tests can be taken 10 days post exposure. The HIVDUO test measures blood levels of HIV p24 antigen which are high in the first few weeks after infection, meaning the test can detect infection in the earliest stages. This test specifically measures HIV-1 p24 antigen and antibodies to HIV-1 including group O and HIV-2.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B Surface Antigen tests are used to detect Hepatitis B virus infections, particularly during acute and chronic stages. This test should be performed after an incubation period of six weeks to several months following suspected exposure: a positive result indicates you are currently infected with the Hepatitis B virus. To further clarify the status of the infection, a follow up test after six months is recommended. The Hepatitis B Immunity test detects Hepatitis B Surface Antibody and is utilised to validate the necessity and success of vaccination, as well as monitor the course of the disease following acute Hepatitis B infection. Results are interpreted as non-reactive if values are less than 10 IU/L, while values equal to or greater than 10 IU/L are reactive, and the patient is considered immune to HBV.
- Hepatitis C – Anti-HCV antibodies, typically become detectable within 6-8 weeks after infection. These antibodies can emerge along with the onset of symptoms or even up to 6 months post-infection. If you test positive for anti-HCV or receive an indeterminate result, it is crucial to confirm active HCV infection by
conducting a sensitive HCV RNA test. This second step is essential for an accurate diagnosis. Keep in mind the window
period during which a patient may be anti-HCV negative but HCV RNA positive can range from 40 to 60 days, although
it can vary among individuals.
- Syphilis – We offer two syphilis tests. A T. pallidum PCR test is a valuable diagnostic
tool available exclusively as part of the STI_10PLEX panel, intended primarily for genital chancres, overt lesions, or
specimens with purulent discharges. It is important to note this test is not offered as a standalone option. Given the practicality of noninvasive urine samples, we also offer this for non-suspected screenings. PCR for T. pallidum is not suitable for diagnosing syphilis, particularly latent syphilis without clinical symptoms. For latent infections, characterised by the absence of clinical manifestations, serologic testing is recommended. We provide the Syphilis Serum Antibodies test, designed to detect total IgG and IgM antibodies against bacterial TpN15, TpN17, and TpN47 in serum. In most settings, the screening and diagnosis of syphilis is based on serologic tests. By the time signs and symptoms of primary syphilis
are present most patients have detectable IgG and IgM but before this there is a short window around 2–4 weeks post infection
when only IgM is detectable.
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhoea
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhoea
- Syphilis
- Herpes Simplex I
- Herpes Simplex II
- Trichomonas vaginalis
- Mycoplasma hominis
- Mycoplasma genitalium
- Ureaplasma urelyticum
* Please note from time to time there may be temporary changes to the test menu. If you are booking for a specific test please contact us to confirm availability.
* Keep in mind many STI’s have an incubation period following sexual activity in which STI’s may not be detected. It’s recommended to wait at least 2 weeks following sexual activity before taking the test to ensure accuracy
Feel free to come in and discuss your concerns and we can recommend a test or range of tests to suit your needs.
