Everything you need to know about sexual health screening but were too afraid to ask

Sexual health screening – the mere mention of these words can leave many people feeling awkward and embarrassed. But it shouldn’t be like that because sexual health screening is so important. Early detection of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can help prevent future complications and transmission to others. For this reason, the sexual health experts at YourGP are here to help break the taboo. If you’ve never had a sexual health screening, read on as YourGP’s Clinical Lead, Dr Cathrow, answers the questions many are too afraid to ask.

How should I prepare for a sexual health screening at YourGP?

If urine tests are anticipated, the best sample is from the start of urine flow (first catch) and not within two hours of last urination. In women, a urine sample should not be taken if she is having current vaginal bleeding. No other special preparations are needed for blood or swab testing.

What happens at a typical sexual health screening at YourGP?

It is helpful if a patient shares as much information as possible about sexual history. We usually ask about last sexual contact, any known STI contacts, previous STIs and treatment, sexual activities and partners and whether the patient has any specific symptoms or concerns. This helps the doctor decide on the most appropriate tests. However, it is not essential that sexual history information is shared, and patients can choose the tests that they have if they wish. However, we would always recommend a discussion with the doctor, to ensure patients get the most out of their appointment.

Can you test for all STIs at YourGP?

Currently, we can test for a wide range of STIs and our testing goes above and beyond that available routinely on the NHS. Our ‘complete test’ is performed via blood and urine/swab samples and checks for:

• Chlamydia trachomatis
• Neisseria gonorrhoeae
• Syphilis (presence in lesion or urine)
• Herpes simplex I Herpes simplex II
• Trichomonas vaginalis
• Mycoplasma hominis
• Mycoplasma genitalium
• Ureaplasma urelyticum
• Chancroid urine
• HIV1&2/p24Ag
• Hepatitis B surface antigen
• Hepatitis C antibodies
• Syphilis antibodies (IgG/IgM)
• We can also test for HPV and other infections such as thrush and bacterial vaginosis

What are the most common STIs you test for?

Chlamydia and gonorrhoea remain the most commonly tested STIs. These are easily checked for with a urine or swab sample. Chlamydia is simple to treat. If a gonorrhoea sample comes back positive, we would refer you on to the local sexual health consultant as this needs very specific onward testing and treatment in view of recent national problems with super gonorrhoea. However, we would take care of this referral process which occurs on an urgent basis.

What swabs and samples are usually taken?

Depending on the history and possible symptoms, we can advise on the most appropriate tests. Many tests can be performed from urine alone. Any discharge or lesions can be swabbed. Some tests for blood borne viruses (BBVs) require blood tests – including HIV, hepatitis B&C and syphilis. With a positive gonorrhoea initial test, the specialist clinic would check further swabs at several sites across the body, depending on history.

How soon after sexual contact can patients get tested?

This is a great question! Not all STI checks will pick up infection straight after sexual contact. Most STIs have an incubation following a sexual encounter meaning they may not be detected within a certain timeframe.

Most STI’s require you to wait at least 14 days after sexual activity before taking a test, however, there is some variation:

• HIV: To ensure the most accurate results, the best time to take the test is 6 weeks after exposure. However, early detection tests can be taken 10 days post exposure.
• Hepatitis B virus infections: This test should be performed after an incubation period of six weeks to several months following suspected exposure.
• Hepatitis C: These antibodies typically become detectable within 6-8 weeks after infection. These antibodies can emerge along with the onset of symptoms or even up to 6 months post-infection.
• Syphilis: The serum antibodies test can be performed at 2–12 weeks post infection.
• BBVs: It is best to re-test at 3 months.

How long do patients have to wait for results from YourGP?

Typically, most tests have a 24 to 48 hour turnaround.

What happens if the patient gets a positive result?

The majority of positive results can be easily treated at the clinic. If a BBV is detected, it is essential that a patient is referred to a specialist for ongoing investigation, management and care. We can organise this.

How often should people get tested?

There is no hard and fast rule to this. We usually recommend that everyone undergoes sexual health screening annually, or with every change of partner. For those having regular sex without a condom and with various partners, routine testing is recommended at least every 3 months. If you have any questions about the regularity of testing, simply book an appointment to speak with one of our GPs.

What is the average age of someone visiting the sexual health clinic at YourGP?

There really is no average age these days. We see patients from all age ranges, all sexualities and all walks of life. Our service is extremely discrete, and you can rest assured that no one will know the reason for your visit to one of our GP clinics.

What makes YourGP different to other clinics?

As a GP service with clinics over two sites, we run a variety of services, so there is no reason why anyone would know the reason for your visit. Our clinics offer professional and relaxed environments, and our staff are all friendly and welcoming. We strive to proactively look after our patients’ health, including their sexual health, so staff are all ready and comfortable to put you at ease and answer any questions you may have. The stress and anxiety that health worries can cause can be eased greatly by just picking up the phone and calling us on 0131 225 5656, or using our simple online booking form to make an appointment with one of our highly experienced GPs.