Question 1

Syphilis

Accepted Answer

Syphilis is a bacterial infection that is spread through unprotected sex with an infected individual. It's important to test for the condition if you believe you have come in contact with it as it can have a long term impact on your health. Symptoms can include a painless sore or ulcer on the penis or vagina, along with other rashes affecting different areas of the body. Many people will notice no symptoms or the symptoms may be so mild that they pass unnoticed.

Question 2

Gonorrhoea

Accepted Answer

This infection regularly shows no symptoms.
 
Formerly known as "the clap", gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria. It can affect the vagina, penis, anus or throat and as a result can be passed on through unprotected vaginal, oral or anal sex. It regularly shows no symptoms, but some signs include yellowy or green discharge, burning when passing urine, abdominal pain in women or genital pain in men.

Question 3

Herpes Simplex (HSV)

Accepted Answer

Herpes Simplex (HSV) is a virus that can be transmitted through skin on skin contact with someone who is having an active outbreak, including through vaginal, oral or anal sex. It can cause genital herpes where the condition presents as small blisters that burst to leave red, open sores. It can also present on the face in the form of cold sores. People infected with herpes carry the virus for life and may have outbreaks or flare ups.

Question 4

How long should I wait before testing?

Accepted Answer

The incubation period is the time from a possible time of infection to when it can be detected on a test.
This can vary depending on the infection and the individual.

For most accurate results, using the details below, carefully check when would be the best time for you to take the test.

• HIV usually 10 to 90 days, but up to 180 days

• Hep B usually 45 to 180 days, average of 60-90 days

• Hep C usually 9 to 180 days, average of 45-65 days

• Syphilis 9 to 21 days, but up to 90 days

• Chlamydia - 1 to 3 weeks, up to 6 weeks

• Gonorrhoea 2 to 7 days, up to 1 month

• Herpes - 2 to 14 days, testing most appropriate for patients with symptoms.

• Mycoplasma Genitalium, Symptoms 1 to 3 weeks (Macrolide Resistance test if positive)

• Trichomonas- 4 - 28 days, many patients are asymptomatic carriers

• Ureaplasma - symptoms develop 1- 3 weeks

Question 5

What will you test for?

Accepted Answer

We offer a range of different test packages which you can view on our website. Or you can
discuss with the doctor/adviser who can advise on which tests are appropriate for you.

Question 6

How will the tests be done?

Accepted Answer

Once you have chosen any testing you need, this will be done at our Private GP practice in Marlow - which sees patients for many different aspects of health - so no potentially embarrassing waits in an STI clinic waiting room!
When you arrive, you can either give your name or just give your appointment time to the receptionist.
 
All of our tests are via urine or blood sample. Swabs are not normally necessary, except for exceptional circumstances

Question 7

Can I see a female/male doctor?

Accepted Answer

Yes, providing they are working that day you can request who you’d like to see. If they are not, we can arrange an appointment for you.

Question 8

Will I have to have embarrassing swabs?

Accepted Answer

No, all of our tests can be done via urine and blood tests. Swabs are not normally necessary, except for exceptional circumstances

Question 9

Can I bring someone else with me?

Accepted Answer

Yes you can. Please bear in mind the sensitive questions you may be asked and the possible need for an examination, as to whether you want them in the room with you.

Question 10

Will you tell my own NHS GP?

Accepted Answer

Our service is confidential. In exceptional circumstances (for example an untreated infection) we may need to share your information with another health care provider in your best interests but we would always discuss this with you first.

Question 11

How long will it take to get my results?

Accepted Answer

This will depend on the test you have chosen. Most results are availble next day.

Question 12

Can I also have a smear test done?

Accepted Answer

Yes we do also offer this service. Please request it when booking.

Question 13

I’m a man. What sexually transmitted infections should I test for?

Accepted Answer

If you are male and don’t have any symptoms you will need to provide a urine sample, which we will test for chlamydia and gonorrhoea. Men will also do a blood test for HIV and syphilis, and occasionally hepatitis B or C.

Question 14

I’m a woman. What sexually transmitted infections should I test for?

Accepted Answer

If you are female and don’t have any symptoms you will have a urine for chlamydia and gonorrhoea and and optional blood test for HIV and syphilis at the same time at no extra cost.

Question 15

What are some symptoms of sexually transmitted infections in women?

Accepted Answer

Common STI symptoms in women include:
 
• change in vaginal discharge (fluid)
• redness or itching
• pain
• pain during sex
• heavier periods
• spotting
• needing to urinate frequently
• discomfort when urinating
• ulcers or sores
• lumps on the skin
If you’ve been having anal sex, you may notice a change in bowel habit such as pain, constipation or diarrhoea, blood or mucus in your stools.
If you have any of these symptoms, come see us as soon as possible.

Question 16

What are some symptoms of sexually transmitted infections in men?

Accepted Answer

Common STI symptoms in men include:
 
• discharge (fluid) coming from the tip of the penis
• redness or itching
• pain in the testicles
• discomfort when urinating
• needing to urinate frequently
• ulcers or sores
• lumps on the skin
If you’ve been having anal sex, you may notice a change in bowel habit such as pain, constipation or diarrhoea, blood or mucus in your stools.
 
If you have any of these symptoms, come see us as soon as possible.
 
Plan ahead regarding how you will protect yourself and your sexual partners from infections when under the influence of alcohol or other recreational drugs.

Question 17

How do I protect myself against sexually-transmitted infections or HIV?

Accepted Answer

Have safe sex. Safer sex means having sex with less risk of transmission (catching or passing on) an STI. The risk of catching each infection is different and varies according to the type of sex you are having (eg oral, vaginal or anal sex). 
 
For example. herpes is often passed on through oral sex, but HIV is rarely passed on this way. Anal sex carries the highest risk of passing on infections such as HIV and hepatitis, followed by vaginal and then oral sex.
 
Non-penetrative sex (such as body rubbing and mutual masturbation) carries the lowest risk, but some infections (such as warts and herpes) can be passed on in this way.
 
Come in and speak to a GP for more information.

Question 18

How do I make sex safer?

Accepted Answer

You can reduce the risk of all infections by using condoms for all types of penetrative sex (vaginal and anal). You may also want to consider condoms for oral sex.
 
Having non penetrative sex, such as body rubbing and mutual masturbation, and reducing the number of partners you have sex with, reduces the risk of transmitting infections.
 
You should always get tested for STIs before having sex with someone new and advise that they get tested too.
 
If you are at risk of hepatitis B, get vaccinated. We can provide these vaccinations at the same time as any testing. Cost £165 for a course of 3.

Question 19

Who is this test for?

Accepted Answer

This test is designed for anyone who wants complete peace of mind. Whether you’ve just started a new relationship or you’ve had multiple sexual partners and want a general sexual health test, you’ll get the results you need with the Premium Profile.

Question 20

Turnaround time

Accepted Answer

This test can take up to 4 days to gain accurate results once received by the lab. On many occasions our results are returned quicker. Some of the conditions within the Profile 1 may be diagnosed quicker than others and on these occasions we’ll notify you of each as and when we receive them.

Question 21

Incubation period

Accepted Answer

Please be advised that this test will only offer the advised level of accuracy against all conditions 28 days after potential exposure. If you believe you came into contact sooner than 28 days then you may wish to take one of our Early Detection tests which offer accurate results just 10 days after exposure.

Question 22

Is this test right for me?

Accepted Answer

This is our most comprehensive screen and if it’s longer than 28 days since your last exposure you won’t get a more accurate picture of your sexual health. If you’re concerned about exposure through anal or oral sex though, you may need to take a swab sample too. Contact our team to find out more about any of our tests.

Question 23

1. Book your test

Accepted Answer

To book this test, simply press the ‘Select This Test’ button above. You’ll then be taken to our booking page where you can choose the best clinic for your needs.

Question 24

2. Arrive at the clinic

Accepted Answer

Our clinics are all based in a discreet setting and because many of them are general health clinics, there’s no reason why anyone will know that you’re there for a sexual health screening. Just let the receptionist know who you are upon arrival.

Question 25

3. Your blood sample

Accepted Answer

The Profile 1 test requires a blood and urine sample. The blood sample is collected by a trained nurse or doctor. They’ll take care of you and ensure you’re comfortable, but it will require the use of a needle.

Question 26

4. Your urine sample

Accepted Answer

The urine sample will be collected by you in a clinic toilet, with the nurse or doctor providing you with full instructions before you deposit the sample. For the test to be fully accurate you must catch the first stream of urine.

Question 27

5. Now we’ll take care of your results

Accepted Answer

Once you’ve deposited your sample, we’ll take care of the rest. We’ll notify you of your results using our online portal as soon as they’re reported by the laboratory.

Question 28

Who is this test for?

Accepted Answer

This test is suitable for a male who is at low risk. Whether you are thinking of starting a new relationship or you have had a recent low-risk romantic encounter and don't have any symptoms, this test is suitable for you.

Question 29

Turnaround time

Accepted Answer

From the time of your tests, it will take 2 days for the results to be available.

Question 30

Incubation Period

Accepted Answer

The incubation period is the time from a possible time of infection to when it can be detected on a test. This can vary depending on the infection and the individual. For most accurate results, using the details below, carefully check when would be the best time for you to take the test.
Chlamydia - 1 to 3 weeks, up to 6 weeks
Gonorrhoea - 2 to 7 days, up to 1 month
HIV - usually 10 to 90 days, but up to 180 days
Syphilis - 9 to 21 days, but up to 90 days

Question 31

Is this the right test for me?

Accepted Answer

This test is for:
• Low risk male
• No symptoms
• No recent 'risky' romantic encounters

Question 32

Book your test

Accepted Answer

To book this test, simply press the ‘Book Now’ button above. You’ll then be taken to our booking page where you can choose the best date and time for your test. Please check carefully the Incubation period information for each test before booking. On occasion, a positive result may require a confirmatory blood test at a later date depending on the date of sexual contact. The Doctor will advise. This would be an additional fee
If you are unsure please call us or email for a confidential discussion.

Question 33

Arrive at the clinic

Accepted Answer

Once you have chosen any testing you need, this will be done at our Private GP practice in Marlow - which sees patients for many different aspects of health - so no potentially embarrassing waits in an STI clinic waiting room!
When you arrive, you can either give your name or just give your appointment time to the receptionist.

Question 34

Your Blood Sample

Accepted Answer

If you have chosen to add a test for HIV and Syphilis (optional at no extra charge), we will need a single blood sample, which is taken from the arm by our trained phlebotomy team.

Question 35

Your Urine Sample

Accepted Answer

You would collect a small urine sample at at the clinic, the team will advise if necessary.
For the test to be fully accurate you must catch the first stream of urine.

Question 36

Results

Accepted Answer

Once you’ve deposited your sample, we’ll take care of the rest. We’ll notify you of your results via your selected method of communication. In the event of a positive result, a 15-minute follow-up appointment with a GP can be scheduled if required as well as a written prescription.

Question 37

Chlamydia

Accepted Answer

This infection regularly shows no symptoms.
 
Chlamydia is one of the most common STIs in the UK. Many people with chlamydia will show no symptoms which makes it easy to pass on during unprotected sex. The only way of knowing for certain you have the condition is through effective testing, but common symptoms include pain whilst urinating, unusual discharge in both men and women and pain during sex.

Question 38

Gonorrhoea

Accepted Answer

This infection regularly shows no symptoms.
 
Formerly known as "the clap", gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria. It can affect the vagina, penis, anus or throat and as a result can be passed on through unprotected vaginal, oral or anal sex. It regularly shows no symptoms, but some signs include yellowy or green discharge, burning when passing urine, abdominal pain in women or genital pain in men.

Question 39

HIV

Accepted Answer

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that damages the immune system and affects the body's ability to fight everyday infections. It is transmitted within the blood and can be passed on through unprotected anal and vaginal sex. HIV cannot be cured through medication and infected individuals will carry the virus for life. Thankfully those living with the virus can lead a completely normal life by taking daily medication that keeps it under control.

Question 40

Syphilis

Accepted Answer

This infection regularly shows no symptoms.
 
Syphilis is a bacterial infection that is spread through unprotected sex with an infected individual. It's important to test for the condition if you believe you have come in contact with it as it can have a long term impact on your health. Symptoms can include a painless sore or ulcer on the penis or vagina, along with other rashes affecting different areas of the body. Many people will notice no symptoms or the symptoms may be so mild that they pass unnoticed.

Question 41

Who is this test for?

Accepted Answer

This test is suitable for men and women that are at relatively low risk. Whether you are thinking of starting a new relationship or you have had a recent romantic encounter and don't have any symptoms, this test is suitable for you.
 
It will give you complete peace of mind.

Question 42

Turnaround time

Accepted Answer

From the time of your tests, it will take 4 days for the results to be available.

Question 43

Incubation Period

Accepted Answer

The incubation period is the time from a possible time of infection to when it can be detected on a test. This can vary depending on the infection and the individual. For most accurate results, using the details below, carefully check when would be the best time for you to take the test.
• HIV usually 10 to 90 days, but up to 180 days
• Hep B usually 45 to 180 days, average of 60-90 days
• Hep C usually 9 to 180 days, average of 45-65 days
• Syphilis 9 to 21 days, but up to 90 days
• Chlamydia - 1 to 3 weeks, up to 6 weeks
• Gonorrhoea 2 to 7 days, up to 1 month
• Herpes - 2 to 14 days, testing most appropriate for patients with symptoms.
• Mycoplasma Genitalium, Symptoms 1 to 3 weeks (Macrolide Resistance test if positive)
• Trichomonas- 4 - 28 days, many patients are asymptomatic carriers
• Ureaplasma - symptoms develop 1- 3 weeks

Question 44

Is this the right test for me?

Accepted Answer

This test is for:
 
• Men and women
• No symptoms
• Recent romantic encounter
This Maxi Test is a comprehensive screen, if you’re concerned about exposure through anal or oral sex though, you may need to take a swab sample too. Contact our team to find out more about any of our tests.

Question 45

Book your test

Accepted Answer

To book this test, simply press the ‘Book Now’ button above. You’ll then be taken to our booking page where you can choose the best date and time for your test.
 
If you are unsure please call us or email for a confidential discussion.

Question 46

Arrive at the clinic

Accepted Answer

Once you have chosen any testing you need, this will be done at our Private GP practice in Marlow - which sees patients for many different aspects of health - so no potentially embarrassing waits in an STI clinic waiting room!
 
When you arrive, you can either give your name or just give your appointment time to the receptionist.

Question 47

Your Blood Sample

Accepted Answer

The blood sample is collected by a trained nurse or doctor. Some tests will require blood to be drawn and others will be through a finger prick blood test.

Question 48

Your Urine Sample

Accepted Answer

You would collect a small urine sample at at the clinic, the team will advise if necessary.
For the test to be fully accurate you must catch the first stream of urine.

Question 49

Results

Accepted Answer

We’ll notify you of your results via your selected method of communication (chosen on booking). In the event of a positive result, a 15-minute follow-up appointment with a GP can be scheduled if required as well as a written prescription.

Question 50

Chlamydia

Accepted Answer

This infection regularly shows no symptoms.
 
Chlamydia is one of the most common STIs in the UK. Many people with chlamydia will show no symptoms which makes it easy to pass on during unprotected sex. The only way of knowing for certain you have the condition is through effective testing, but common symptoms include pain whilst urinating, unusual discharge in both men and women and pain during sex.

Question 51

Gardnerella Vaginalis

Accepted Answer

Gardnerella Vaginalis is a naturally occurring bacteria that is most commonly found in the vagina. It can however be transmitted through sexual intercourse and men can catch the infection. Due to the fact that it's naturally occurring medication is often not prescribed for women unless there are symptoms.

Question 52

Gonorrhoea

Accepted Answer

This infection regularly shows no symptoms.
 
Formerly known as "the clap", gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria. It can affect the vagina, penis, anus or throat and as a result can be passed on through unprotected vaginal, oral or anal sex. It regularly shows no symptoms, but some signs include yellowy or green discharge, burning when passing urine, abdominal pain in women or genital pain in men.

Question 53

Hepatitis B

Accepted Answer

Hepatitis B is a virus that affects the liver. It is spread through the transfer of blood and bodily fluids, including through unprotected sex. It is less common in the UK when compared to other countries, but you are at risk if you have unprotected sex with someone carrying the virus. For many people, Hepatitis B has a lifelong impact and you may never fully be cured.

Question 54

Hepatitis C

Accepted Answer

Hepatitis C is a virus that affects the liver. It is passed on through the transfer of blood, including during sex. It's usually possible to cure the infection and most people will have a normal life expectancy. Unfortunately it rarely shows symptoms until the liver is significantly damaged, which is why testing following unprotected sex is so important.

Question 55

Herpes Simplex (HSV)

Accepted Answer

Herpes Simplex (HSV) is a virus that can be transmitted through skin on skin contact with someone who is having an active outbreak, including through vaginal, oral or anal sex. It can cause genital herpes where the condition presents as small blisters that burst to leave red, open sores. It can also present on the face in the form of cold sores. People infected with herpes carry the virus for life and may have outbreaks or flare ups.

Question 56

HIV

Accepted Answer

HIV is the human immunodeficiency virus. HIV infection progresses in stages as the virus gradually depletes disease-fighting immune cells. Over time, this leaves the body vulnerable to opportunistic infections
The initial stage, called acute seroconversion, can cause flu-like symptoms or no symptoms at all. The 
incubation period for acute HIV is between two to three weeks (although symptoms can sometimes take up to three months to develop).

After the acute symptoms resolve, the virus will go into a period of latency that can last 10 to 15 years or even more. Eventually, when enough immune cells have been destroyed, the infection can progress to the most advanced stage of infection, known as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Question 57

Mycoplasma Genitalium

Accepted Answer

Mycoplasma genitalium is also known as MG or Mgen. It's a sexually transmitted bacterium that infects the urinary and genital tracts of men and women.

MG can cause non-specific urethritis (NSU) in men and pelvic inflammatory disease
(PID) in women.

Symptoms: 
The majority of people with MG have no symptoms and the infection will clear itself naturally in some cases. Others may have one or more symptoms.
Signs and symptoms in people with a penis:
• pain when urinating
• a discharge
• pain in their testicles
• proctitis, an inflammation in the rectum causing anal pain and discharge.
Signs and symptoms in people with a vagina:
• vaginal discharge
• pain in the lower abdomen
• abnormal vaginal bleeding (intermenstrual bleeding)
• bleeding after sex
• PID has been linked to MG – PID can cause infertility and is also associated
with pre-term births and spontaneous abortions.

Incubation period is 1-3 weeks

Question 58

Syphilis

Accepted Answer

This infection regularly shows no symptoms.
 
Syphilis is a bacterial infection that is spread through unprotected sex with an infected individual. It's important to test for the condition if you believe you have come in contact with it as it can have a long term impact on your health. Symptoms can include a painless sore or ulcer on the penis or vagina, along with other rashes affecting different areas of the body. Many people will notice no symptoms or the symptoms may be so mild that they pass unnoticed.

Question 59

Trichomonas Vaginalis

Accepted Answer

Trichomoniasis is an STI caused by a one-celled parasite known as Trichomonas vaginalis. Both males and females can get trichomoniasis, but the infection is often asymptomatic (in males especially). In females,
trichomoniasis may cause vaginal itchiness and discharge with a fishy smell. 8 The incubation period of trichomoniasis is between five and 28 days.

Question 60

Ureaplasma

Accepted Answer

Ureaplasma is a bacteria that is commonly found in the urinary or genital tract. It will usually live in balance with other bacteria naturally found in your body and many people will never know they have it. Due to its usual harmless nature, treatment is not usually prescribed unless the infected individual is noticing clear symptoms.

Question 61

Who is this test for?

Accepted Answer

This test is suitable for a male who has sex with other men, and who is at low risk.
Whether you are thinking of starting a new relationship or you have had a recent low-risk romantic encounter and don't have any symptoms, this test is suitable for you.
 
If you believe you may have been exposed to a greater risk, we recommend the Maxi Test (Click here), as it gives complete peace of mind.

Question 62

Turnaround time

Accepted Answer

Results will be available the next day

Question 63

Incubation Period

Accepted Answer

The incubation period is the time from a possible time of infection to when it can be detected on a test. This can vary depending on the infection and the individual. For most accurate results, using the details below, carefully check when would be the best time for you to take the test.
 
• HIV usually 10 to 90 days, but up to 180 days
• Hep B usually 45 to 180 days, average of 60-90 days
• Hep C usually 9 to 180 days, average of 45-65 days
• Syphilis 9 to 21 days, but up to 90 days

Question 64

Is this the right test for me?

Accepted Answer

This test is for:
• Low risk men who have sex with men
• No symptoms
• No recent 'risky' romantic encounters
 
If you believe you may have been exposed to a greater risk, we recommend the Maxi Test (Click here), as it gives complete peace of mind.

New Relationship

Female

Mini Test

Samples Requirements

Blood

Urine

Swab

Female - Mini Test

Description

Who is this test for?

Turnaround time

Incubation period

Is this test right for me?

Procedure

1. Book your test

2. Arrive at the clinic

3. Your blood sample

4. Your urine sample

5. Now we’ll take care of your results

Test Includes

Syphilis

Gonorrhoea

Herpes Simplex (HSV)

How long should I wait before testing?

What will you test for?

How will the tests be done?

Can I see a female/male doctor?

Will I have to have embarrassing swabs?

Can I bring someone else with me?

Will you tell my own NHS GP?

How long will it take to get my results?

Can I also have a smear test done?

I’m a man. What sexually transmitted infections should I test for?

I’m a woman. What sexually transmitted infections should I test for?

What are some symptoms of sexually transmitted infections in women?

What are some symptoms of sexually transmitted infections in men?

How do I protect myself against sexually-transmitted infections or HIV?

How do I make sex safer?

Who is this test for?

Turnaround time

Incubation period

Is this test right for me?

1. Book your test

2. Arrive at the clinic

3. Your blood sample

4. Your urine sample

5. Now we’ll take care of your results

Who is this test for?

Turnaround time

Incubation Period

Is this the right test for me?

Book your test

Arrive at the clinic

Your Blood Sample

Your Urine Sample

Results

Chlamydia

Gonorrhoea

HIV

Syphilis

Who is this test for?

Turnaround time

Incubation Period

Is this the right test for me?

Book your test

Arrive at the clinic

Your Blood Sample

Your Urine Sample

Results

Chlamydia

Gardnerella Vaginalis

Gonorrhoea

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis C

Herpes Simplex (HSV)

HIV

Mycoplasma Genitalium

Syphilis

Trichomonas Vaginalis

Ureaplasma

HIV 1 & 2