Sexually transmitted infections and HIV

STI testing and treatment

  • Local areas have different arrangements for STI testing, and this is changing rapidly
  • 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
  • Walk-in clinic sessions may be unavailable to reduce the risk of spreading Coronavirus, but advice and support is still available
  • Contact your family doctor or sexual health clinic by phone or online
  • A clinic appointment will be arranged for anyone who needs to be seen
  • It is important not to travel to a GP surgery, clinic or hospital unless you are asked to

Possible exposure to HIV

  • If you have been exposed to HIV in the last 72 hours, you may be able to reduce the risk of infection by taking medicine called post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)
  • 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
  • A clinic appointment will be arranged for anyone who needs to be seen
  • It is important not to travel to a GP surgery, clinic or hospital unless you are asked to

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