The doctor or nurse will first ask about what is worrying you. They will then ask some questions to find out what is likely to have caused the problem.
These questions can sometimes be sensitive as they include questions about your sex life, but they are not meant to embarrass or upset you. The questions will help us decide which tests you need, and which treatment is best for you. It is your choice how much information you share.
You can also ask the doctor or nurse if there is something you want to know.
Testing
If you say it is okay, they will examine you and do the required tests. You will be offered a chaperone (another health professional) to be with you for any genital examination. A female nurse will always be present if a male doctor is examining a female.
Generally, testing for STIs includes:
- taking swabs and wee (urine) samples for chlamydia, gonorrhoea and trichomonas and sometimes for other infections
- blood tests for syphilis, HIV and anything else your doctor or nurse requests.
If you do not want other healthcare providers (like your general practice team) to have access to your STI results, the clinic can code your test results so they do not go to the lab under your name. You can ask for this when you talk to the doctor or nurse who is doing your testing.
The clinic might do some tests while you wait but most tests will take around 5 to 7 working days before the results come through. Some tests may take longer. The clinic will need to contact you if a test is positive or needs repeating. Check that we have your contact details and the best way to contact you at every visit.