We routinely test for chlamydia and gonorrhoea and all new patients and those who may have been at risk are also advised have blood tests for HIV and syphilis. We also test for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) where this is appropriate.
These tests may be undertaken by our online testing service, where you will be sent a testing kit to test at home, or in clinic if attending for an appointment.
People with a penis
You should not pass urine for up to two hours before attending as we routinely test for STIs using a urine sample. In addition to the routine tests for chlamydia and gonorrhoea, we will also test for non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU) via a swab from the penis and Mycoplasma Genitalium (Mgen), if you report symptoms.
People with a vagina
You will be tested for STIs by taking swabs from the vagina and, in some cases, the cervix (this could be done by yourself or the clinician). In addition to the routine tests for chlamydia and gonorrhoea, we also look for trichomonas, bacterial vaginosis and Mycoplasma Genitalium (Mgen), where this is appropriate. After taking the swabs the clinician may carry out an internal examination to check for pelvic inflammation.
All women aged 25 and over should have a regular cervical smear test done by their GP or practice nurse. We do not routinely offer cervical smear tests. If you are 25 and over and have not had a smear test you should make an appointment with your GP.
Rectal and throat swabs
Sometimes it may be appropriate to take swabs from the rectum and/or throat to test for chlamydia and gonorrhoea (this could be done by yourself or the clinician).
Vaccination
We offer Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B vaccinations, and HPV vaccination for men who have sex with men where this is appropriate.
How do I get my test results?
This depends on how you have been tested and what you have been tested for. Wherever possible you will receive your results by text message to your mobile phone. Alternatively you can phone the clinic.
If your test was positive for any infection, the text message you receive will advise you on what to do next so that we can provide you with specialist care and treatment.
It is important your infection is treated as soon as possible to prevent any complications, and reduce the likelihood of passing it on to any sexual partner(s).
We may ask you to call in to discuss your results, this does not mean that you have anything seriously wrong with you.
When will I get my results?
If you test via our online service, you will receive results by text message to your mobile phone within 7 – 10 days after returning your testing kit.
If you test in clinic, some results may be available on the day. However some specimens may need to be sent away to the laboratory to be processed, so the results take a little longer. Any required treatment will be given to you at that same time.
Why and how to inform your partner(s)?
STIs can cause serious health problems if left untreated. Many people infected with an STI are unaware of their infection as they don’t have symptoms.
If you are diagnosed with an infection, treating your partner(s) will protect you from catching the infection again. Treating any sexual partners may not only prevent them from having serious health problems, but also stop the infection being passed on to others.
Informing partners of their risk of an STI is a sensitive issue, so our staff can help you with this. Should you require treatment for a positive result, iCaSH offer a partner notification service, however patients are able to inform partners for the need of screening. Partner notification options will be discussed with you during your consultation.
Should you choose to let a member of the iCaSH team assist with the notification, you will be asked to give the name of your partner(s), age and contact details (preferably mobile number). This information is confidential - we will never share your details when contacting them.