Sexual Health Testing

Sexual Health is something we tend to not like to think about or discuss.
Yet it is important.

Whether you have had a risky encounter with someone, have been told by a partner that they have an STI or are starting a new relationship and just want to make sure that everything is ok, sexual health is something we want to keep private and confidential.

At Total Health West Berkshire we have teamed up with Your Sexual Health to give you access to fast, discrete, accurate and confidential sexual health testing.

To find out details about the tests they offer and how to book you can head over to their website.

Find Out More

We offer sexual health testing as part of both our Men’s Health and Women’s Health Services.

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF AN STD?

The symptoms of sexually transmitted infections vary from person to person and many people will notice no symptoms at all. If you don’t have symptoms, the STD can still cause you health problems and you can pass it on to others.

Common symptoms include: –

Unusual discharge from the penis, vagina or anus
Pain during sex or urination
Sores, blisters, ulcers, warts or rashes in the genital area
Itchiness or irritation usually localised to the urethra
Abnormal or unusual vaginal bleeding, especially after having sex
Pain in the scrotum or testicles
Lumps and bumps on the genitals
Swelling of the glands in your groin

Due to the fact that many people will notice no symptoms at all, the only way to truly know you have an STD is through sexual health testing.

HOW COMMON ARE STDS IN THE UK?

STDs are very common and rates in the UK continue to rise for a number of reasons, most notably due to government budget cuts and closures to many public health services in the UK, including sexual health testing.

If you have unprotected sex with someone without using a condom, then you’re at risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection.

Due to the fact that many STDs show no symptoms, it’s quite common for people to pass on a sexually transmitted infection without knowing they have one themselves.

For this reason, it’s important to get tested regularly and always use a condom if you’re having sex with someone in a new relationship.

HOW SOON AFTER POTENTIAL EXPOSURE CAN I HAVE A SEXUAL HEALTH TEST?

No STD test is accurate immediately after exposure to a sexually transmitted infection. Our tests require the virus or bacteria to multiply within your body to a detectable level or they require your body to create antibodies in response to the STD.

The time that this takes is known as the window period for sexual health testing. This period varies depending on the test that you’re taking with details displayed as ‘Accurate From’ on the test pages and cards.

The only exception to these times is if you have clear and obvious symptoms to an STD in your genital area. If you are unsure whether you can get tested yet, contact our customer services team on 0161 504 7902.

WHY SHOULD I HAVE A SEXUAL HEALTH TEST?

There are many reasons to get tested for an STD and each person has there own reasons, including: –

Having symptoms that could be associated with an STD
Starting a new relationship and want to make sure you’re all clear before having unprotected sex
Routine testing to maintain good sexual health
Having unprotected sex with someone for the first time or who you do not know
If a previous sexual partner has let you know they have an STD
STD testing for work or visa requirements
STD testing before beginning IVF or trying for a baby
If you’ve slept with a sex worker or you are a sex worker yourself

By testing with Your Sexual Health you’ll be guaranteed a more convenient service, with faster results than the NHS. Many of our tests are more comprehensive than those offered on the NHS, giving you a complete picture of your health.

For more frequently asked questions head over to the Your Sexual Health Website FAQS here