Sexual health symptoms and testing questions

Overview

Sexually transmitted infections can cause discharge, sores, discomfort or pain when passing urine, but some cause no symptoms. Feeling well cannot confirm that testing is unnecessary. Equally, genital symptoms can have causes other than an infection acquired through sex.

The useful starting point is your concern and the timing of any possible exposure. Different infections need different tests and may become detectable at different times. Advice about when to test should relate to your circumstances rather than a single timetable used for every situation.

By telephone

A telephone discussion can help identify whether you need a sexual health clinic, an examination or testing advice. You may be asked about the type of sexual contact, protection used and current symptoms. These details guide which samples or assessment might be appropriate.

You can also discuss an existing result, an unfinished testing plan or difficulty accessing the next step. Be clear about any recent exposure that worries you so time-sensitive advice is not delayed. If privacy is difficult, say so before sharing information you cannot discuss comfortably.

What cannot be done remotely

A call cannot take blood, urine or swab samples, inspect a sore or rule out infection. Sexual health clinics provide dedicated assessment and testing, sometimes including an examination. Their arrangements for confidentiality can be discussed directly with the clinic you plan to attend.

An early negative result may not answer every question about a recent exposure. Follow the testing service’s advice about repeat tests, sexual contact and partner notification where relevant. Symptoms that worsen while you await results need reassessment rather than simply waiting for the report.

What to prepare

• Describe symptoms and when any possible exposure occurred.
• Have previous results and any advice about repeat testing ready.
• Mention pregnancy possibility or concerns about contraceptive failure.
• Write down questions about testing, confidentiality and the next assessment.

Sources

• NHS: sexually transmitted infections
• NHS: visiting an STI clinic