Question 1

How soon after unprotected sex can I get tested?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the infection. Chlamydia and gonorrhoea can usually be detected after 14 days. HIV requires at least 18–45 days for a reliable result using a 4th-generation test, with 90 days for complete certainty. Syphilis takes 21–90 days. Testing too early can produce a false negative — use our STI Testing Timeline for your specific exposure date.

Question 2

What is included in a standard STI screen?

Accepted Answer

A standard screen typically covers chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, and HIV. Depending on the clinic and your risk factors, it may also include hepatitis B and C, herpes, and trichomonas. Different sites require different swabs — if you have had anal or oral sex, make sure to request swabs from those sites too, as infections at these locations are often missed without targeted testing.

Question 3

I have a sore or blister — could it be herpes?

Accepted Answer

It could be. Herpes (HSV) presents as clusters of small blisters or ulcers, often with tingling or burning beforehand. However, other conditions such as syphilis (a single painless ulcer), ingrown hairs, or skin irritation can look similar. The most accurate test is a PCR swab taken directly from an active sore — do not wait for it to heal before seeking assessment.

Question 4

What is a syphilis rash and where does it appear?

Accepted Answer

Secondary syphilis typically causes a non-itchy rash that appears 2–12 weeks after the primary infection. It classically appears on the trunk, but a hallmark sign is involvement of the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. It can be subtle and is sometimes mistaken for other skin conditions. If you have a rash and have had potential syphilis exposure, a blood test is essential.

Question 5

Can I get an STI through oral sex?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Gonorrhoea, herpes, syphilis, and HPV can all be transmitted through oral sex. The risk is generally lower than for penetrative sex, but it is not zero. Gonorrhoea of the throat (pharyngeal gonorrhoea) is often asymptomatic and requires a dedicated throat swab — it is frequently missed when only genital swabs are taken.

Question 6

Are all STIs curable?

Accepted Answer

Bacterial STIs — chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, and trichomonas — are curable with antibiotics. Viral STIs — HIV, herpes, HPV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C — are not curable but are highly manageable. HIV is controlled with antiretroviral therapy; herpes is managed with antiviral medication to suppress outbreaks; hepatitis C can now be cured with direct-acting antiviral treatment in most cases.

Syphilis

Common questions about Syphilis