You can get tests for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) at a special clinic (see 'Resources' section) or your GPs. STI clinics are often able to give people the results of their tests within a few days, while it may take a little longer from the GP .
Some people don't go to their GP for a check up because they are concerned about confidentiality. In particular they worry if their information could be released to insurance companies, financial institutions or potential employers (See Q&A What is the law about confidentiality at the GPs?).
Women who've been tested for STIs such as gonorrhoea, syphilis and Chlamydia describe the tests as 'invasive' and 'embarrassing'. Having a swab taken was described as uncomfortable and undignified but not painful. Those who've been to clinics said that staff were reassuring, 'easy going', friendly and approachable. They explained what would happen during the consultation and none of it was scary .
Experiencing symptoms that might mean you have an STI can cause relationship difficulties. It can lead to stress and arguments, and accusations of infidelity .
When tests are negative, the symptoms can be linked to the contraception being used, or through a non-sexual infection such as thrush. Many people who discover they have an STI consider themselves 'lucky' because they experienced symptoms and had infections that could be diagnosed and treated . Others did not have symptoms and were only diagnosed when being treated for something else .
A woman who was diagnosed with Chlamydia when she was six weeks pregnant was told she would be unlikely to get pregnant again because of damage to her tubes .
Most people who've had a test are more aware of STIs and intend to have routine check ups and use condoms with any new partners. A woman who has had genital herpes explained that it was important to always uses a condom, even in long term relationships .
Sometimes the full impact of a diagnosis was only felt years later .
Usually people are tested for all STIs (except HIV) so that unsymptomatic infections such as Chlamydia can be detected and successfully treated. One teenager described how shocked she was to discover that her boyfriend had infected her with Chlamydia, gonorrhoea and genital herpes .
Last reviewed April 2010.
Last updated April 2010.