STI Testing: Frequently Asked Questions

We are continuing our series, here are some more questions we have been asked once or twice!  If your question isn’t answered then please phone us on the number above

Q. I am out of the country and need a test – what can I do?

A. If you want one of our urine tests, you can order from our home sample collection website and we can deliver your test to you at no additional charge.  However, we are not able to include the return postage to the UK, so you will have to pay for this yourself.  We suggest you send the sample back as fast as possible to get the best results (less than five days, preferably less than three).

If you want a blood test, then you can book now to be tested when you are in the UK, we have clinics near all the major airports.

Q. Can I get an STI or HIV from giving on receiving oral sex?

A. Yes – although the probability is much less if neither of you has any cuts in your mouth, penis or vagina as infection is more likely to transfer in blood to blood contact.  You should still get tested if you have had unprotected oral sex (protection is with a dental dam in case you were wondering).

Q. Will I need to be tested more than once?

A. Repeat testing is up to you, and of course it depends on whether you continue to have unprotected sex.  All our tests have a window or incubation period which is the minimum recommended time from sex to test.  If you have had sex in this period, then your results may not be accurate (in so far as it may come back negative when you have an infection).  We would recommend repeat HIV testing at 28 days (if you have had the 10 day HIV test) and at 90 days if you have had the 28 day test.

Q. How long do results take?

A. It depends on the test, all our results are quoted in days from when the sample is received in the laboratory.  HIV (28 day), syphilis, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C are all the same day the sample is received in the lab.   Chlamydia, gonorrhoea and Herpes (blood) are 2 days.  All other tests are 4 to 5 days.

If you have any other questions then please visit the main Better2Know website or call us on the number above.