Regular sexual health testing is one of the best ways to protect your health and the health of your partners. Many sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have no symptoms, so the only way to know for sure is to get tested.
At Sexual Health Services Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, we offer free, confidential STI testing and advice to everyone, no matter your age, gender or sexual orientation.
You should get tested if:
- You’ve had unprotected sex (without a condom)
- You’ve started a new relationship or have a new sexual partner
- You or your partner have multiple sexual partners
- You have symptoms such as:
- Pain when passing urine
- Genital itching, discharge or unusual bleeding
- Sores, lumps or rashes on the genitals or mouth
- Pain during sex or in the lower abdomen
- A partner tells you they’ve tested positive for an STI
- You’ve shared sex toys without cleaning them or using a condom
- You’re planning a pregnancy or are already pregnant
- You’re a man who has sex with men
- You’ve had sex with someone from a country with high rates of HIV or hepatitis
- You’re accessing PrEP or need PEP after possible HIV exposure
- You’re a sex worker or engage in transactional sex
- You’ve had sexual contact with someone who is HIV positive and not on treatment
If you don’t have symptoms
Even if you feel fine, STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhoea and HIV can be present without causing any symptoms. Left untreated, they can lead to serious long-term health problems, including infertility.
We recommend that sexually active people test at least once a year – or every 3 months if you change partners more frequently.
You can:
- Book a clinic appointment for a full screen
- Use our free online postal test kits (if you have no symptoms)
If you have symptoms
If you’re experiencing any symptoms, it’s important to be seen in clinic. Call us to book an appointment as soon as possible – we’ll make sure you’re seen quickly and sensitively. Contact us on 0300 131 7010
Our clinics are friendly, welcoming and confidential. You can talk openly with our team, and we’ll help you decide which tests are right for you.
How soon should I test after sex?
Different infections take different amounts of time to show up. This is called the window period. Here’s a general guide:
- Chlamydia & Gonorrhoea – test from 2 weeks after sex
- HIV – test from 45 days after exposure (with follow-up if needed)
- Syphilis – test from 4 to 12 weeks after exposure
- Hepatitis B & C – test from 4 weeks
If you’re unsure, speak to us – we’ll help you test at the right time.