Testing for STIs

The 'window period' is the length of time it can take between catching an infection and when it will show in a test. The window period for the most common STI tests are:

• Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea - Up to 2 weeks
• HIV - 45 days or 90 days, depending on the type of test. Your test provider will be able to give you this information.
• Syphilis - 12 weeks

If you are in any doubt about when to test you should do a test now and another test at a later date. The nurse or doctor will discuss this with you.

Following an assessment you will be asked to provide:

• a urine sample (male only) or a vaginal swab for Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea
• a blood test for HIV and Syphilis
• a blood test for Hepatitis B and C, for people in higher risk groups

For more information about STI testing for Trans people please click here.

If you have symptoms, you will require an examination.

We can diagnose some conditions at the clinic, but most tests need to be sent to the laboratory so you may receive results at a later date. If this is the case we will inform you if either you or your partner(s) need to arrange treatment.

You can be tested for STIs & HIV at any of our Sexual Health Clinics.

To find your nearest clinic, use our Clinic Finder.

Appointments can be booked via our PHR or by phoning 0300 300 2016

*If you have symptoms you will need to be seen at one of our clinics, and will not be offered a home testing kit.

These kits are available free of charge to people living in Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, Southampton City and Portsmouth City.

Click here to order via your Personal Health Record - more about your PHR here.

If you have symptoms you will need to be seen at one of our clinics, and will not be offered a home testing kit.

Your kit will be sent to the address you have provided in a plain envelope.

• Once a kit has been requested unfortunately the order cannot be cancelled.
• The kit will contain all the information you will need to complete the tests.
• The return address label in your kit contains tracking information so you can see that your samples have been delivered to the lab. Please follow the instructions included with your kit carefully and make a note of your tracking number. Your samples should be posted in a post box, you do not need to take them to a Post Office.
• If any of your results are positive you will be contacted to arrange treatment.
• Our online test kits are free and confidential.
• Need help with your blood sample? View our video
• If there is a problem with your kit or you have not Image of a STI test kitreceived your kit or results within the timescales stated above, please call our Single Point of Access number on 0300 300 2016
• Please allow up to 5 working days for test kits to arrive, but please note they can take up to 7 working days due to Royal Mail delivery delays.