Getting tested for STIs
How does it work?
How you get tested depends on the type of infection. Gonorrhea and chlamydia are localized in the body. Therefore, you need to get tested at the place where you had sex - in the throat, genitals or ass. It is important to tell the healthcare professional how you had sex so that they know which tests need to be taken, otherwise the infection may be missed.
HIV, syphilis and hepatitis C are found throughout the body and are tested through blood tests. For HIV and syphilis, there are also rapid tests that give results in a few minutes, while hepatitis C is only tested through a regular blood test.
Herpes and HPV are not routinely tested when you have an STI check, but are only investigated if you have distressing symptoms. Herpes can cause blisters or sores around the mouth or genitals, and hpv can cause warts (condyloma). Cell changes caused by certain hpv types are screened regularly in people with a uterus, usually every three to five years. Mpox is also only tested in case of symptoms, such as blisters or rashes.
Hepatitis A and B are also not tested as part of a regular STD check, but are only investigated if you are bothered by symptoms.
If it turns out that you have an infection covered by the Infection Control Act - such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, HIV, MpoX or hepatitis - you must participate in contact tracing. This means telling the healthcare provider who you have had sex with so that they can be informed about getting tested. Tracing is anonymous, your name is never mentioned, but many people also choose to inform their recent sexual partners themselves to be fair. Even though it can be difficult, many people appreciate that you have come forward and told them.
If you are found to have HIV, you will usually be offered support. An HIV diagnosis often brings up many emotions. You can read more about how to get tested for HIV and what happens if you are found to have HIV here.
Testing and treatment for infections covered by the Infection Control Act is always free of charge. Gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis are treated with antibiotics. HIV, which is a chronic infection, is treated with effective medication that allows you to live a long and healthy life without passing on the virus. Hepatitis C can be cured with modern medicines. Herpes, also not curable with medicine, but symptoms can be treated and relieved. Hpv and mpox usually heal on their own. In the case of HPV-related cell changes, surgery may be needed, and in the case of severe mpox, symptoms can be alleviated.
If you are sexually active, it is recommended that you get tested once or twice a year, depending on how many different partners you have.
