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SEXUAL HEALTH GUIDE

STI screening

Worried about an STI, had unprotected sex, noticed a new symptom or simply want to know your status? Get private guidance on the test you may need, arrange testing and speak with a clinician when necessary.

SRHN by Vaedoc • 5 min read

THE QUICK ANSWER

There is no single test for every STI. Your symptoms, exposure, body sites and timing help determine which tests are appropriate.

On this page

What do you need today?

Start with the option that best matches your situation.

I want to book an STI test

Tell us what you need and get guidance on the appropriate test and next step.

Book an STI test

I have symptoms

Discharge, itching, sores, burning when passing urine, pain or another unusual genital symptom.

I have my test results

Already tested? Discuss your result privately and understand what to do next.

Discuss my results

I need treatment

Already diagnosed or worried you may need treatment? Speak privately with a clinician.

Discuss treatment

Why might you need an STI test?

Testing is not only for people who have obvious symptoms.

After unprotected sex

If you had sex without a condom or your protection failed, testing may be appropriate.

After a new sexual partner

Testing can help you know your status and make informed decisions about sexual health.

You have symptoms

Discharge, itching, sores, burning when passing urine, pain or unusual changes may need assessment.

Your partner has an STI

You may need testing or treatment even if you feel completely well.

You want reassurance

Sometimes you simply want to know your status and make an informed decision.

For routine sexual health care

How often you need testing depends on your partners, exposures, symptoms and individual situation.

What STI test might I need?

There is no single test that checks for every STI. The right test depends on your symptoms and situation.

Urine tests

Urine samples can be used to test for some sexually transmitted infections.

Swab tests

Swabs may be used depending on the symptoms and body area being assessed.

Blood tests

Blood tests may be used for infections such as HIV and syphilis.

Clinical assessment

Some symptoms may need a clinician to examine the affected area or decide what testing is appropriate.

Not sure which test you need?

That's okay. You do not need to choose a test on your own. Tell us what happened and a clinician can help guide the next step.

Before your STI test

A little information beforehand can make the process easier.

Tell us what happened

Share your symptoms, possible exposure and any concerns privately.

Get guided

Understand which testing may be appropriate for your situation.

Get tested

We can guide you to the appropriate testing arrangement or partner facility.

What happens after the test?

Getting tested is only one part of looking after your sexual health.

Your result is negative

A negative result can be reassuring, but the meaning can depend on when you tested and the infection being tested for.

Your result is positive

You may need appropriate treatment, partner care and follow-up.

Your result is unclear

Some results may need further testing, repeat testing or clinical review.

You still have symptoms

Symptoms that continue despite a negative result may need further assessment.

If your result is positive

Don't panic. Many STIs can be treated effectively. The next steps depend on the infection.

Get the right treatment

Different infections need different medicines. Treatment should be based on the diagnosis and clinical assessment.

Your partner may also need care

Depending on the infection, sexual partners may need testing or treatment too.

Follow-up may be needed

Some infections require repeat testing, symptom review or other follow-up after treatment.

Don't self-medicate

Avoid taking antibiotics or other medicines simply because you think you know which STI you have.

How SRHN can help

From the first question to the next step.

Help arrange testing

Tell us what you need and get guidance on the appropriate test.

Help understand your result

Already tested? Discuss your result privately with a clinician.

Treatment support

Get guidance on appropriate treatment, partner care and what happens next.

Follow-up support

Get support if symptoms continue or follow-up testing is needed.

Common questions about STI testing

Straight answers to common questions.

When should I get an STI test?

Testing may be appropriate after unprotected sex, a new sexual partner, symptoms, possible exposure to an STI or when a partner has tested positive.

Can I have an STI without symptoms?

Yes. Some STIs may cause no noticeable symptoms, so testing can still be important even when you feel well.

What tests are commonly used for STIs?

Depending on the infection and your situation, testing may involve urine samples, swabs, blood tests or clinical assessment.

Do I need to know which STI test I want?

No. You do not always need to choose the test yourself. A clinician can help determine what testing may be appropriate based on your symptoms, exposure and situation.

Can I book an STI test privately?

Yes. Start a private conversation with SRHN to discuss your situation and arrange the next step.

What if my STI result is positive?

A positive result means you should get appropriate treatment and follow-up. Depending on the infection, sexual partners may also need testing or treatment.

What if my result is negative but I still have symptoms?

A negative result does not always explain every symptom. Depending on the infection and timing of the test, further assessment or repeat testing may be needed.

Should I take antibiotics before my test?

Avoid starting antibiotics simply because you suspect an STI. The correct treatment depends on the likely cause and clinical assessment.

Will my partner need testing?

Depending on the infection and exposure, your sexual partner may need testing or treatment even if they have no symptoms.

Is STI testing confidential?

SRHN provides private sexual health support so you can discuss your concerns confidentially.

Sources & further reading

This information supports understanding and does not replace a personal assessment. Testing and treatment depend on your circumstances and local availability.

PRIVATE CARE. CLEAR NEXT STEPS.

Still have questions?

Tell us what you have noticed or what is worrying you. A clinician can advise on testing, treatment and whether in-person care is needed.

A clinician consultation costs ₦5,000, including the initial session and two weeks of follow-up support. Tests and medicines cost extra.