Sexually transmitted infections and HIV

STI testing and treatment

  • STI testing and treatment is offered through sexual health clinics and family doctors
  • Many areas offer free online STI testing (e.g. Sexual Health London)
  1. Register online
  2. Receive a discrete STI testing pack in the post
  3. Do urine tests, swab tests and/or blood tests at home
  4. Post the samples to the lab
  5. Receive results by text

Possible exposure to HIV

  • If you might have been exposed to HIV in the last 72 hours, you can reduce the chance of acquiring HIV by taking post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) tablets
  • PEP should be taken as early as possible, ideally in the first 24 hours
  • Contact a sexual health clinic by phone or online to discuss what to do
  • PEP is not normally available from family doctors
  • Accident and Emergency departments normally provide PEP, but telephone first to check

More information: British Association of Sexual Health and HIV; Terrence Higgins Trust