STI Tests

Getting an STI test

An STI test checks whether you have a sexually transmissible infection (STI).

It is quick and painless. It's really important to have an STI test even if you don't have any symptoms.

Who should have an STI test?

If you are having sex, then you should have regular STI tests.

If you have any symptoms or are worried about your sexual health, then arrange a test straight away with your doctor or sexual health clinic.

It's a good idea to have an STI test if:

you think you might have an STI
you have had unprotected sex, that is, sex without a condom or dam, including vaginal, oral or anal sex
you have had a condom break, or it has fallen off during sex (also see emergency contraception)
your partner has other sexual partners or has had previous sexual partners
you have shared injecting equipment
you are starting a new sexual relationship.

If you are unsure whether you need an STI test, phone the Sexual Health Helpline on 9227 6178 (Perth metropolitan callers) or 1800 198 205 (country callers).

Do I need a Medicare card?

Some clinics require a Medicare card, others don't. When making an appointment, check whether they require a Medicare card.

A person 15 years and over can get their own Medicare card. See here for more information.

What happens during an STI test?

Before you get tested your health care worker may ask some questions about the kinds of sex you are having. There is no need to feel embarrassed, these questions help to make sure you are getting all the tests that you need to keep you safe and well. They may ask you:

your number of sexual partners
whether you are sleeping with someone who has a vulva or a penis
what kinds of sex you are having (anal, oral, vaginal)
whether you have any symptoms
whether you have injected drugs

This information is kept confidential.
This is also a good opportunity for you to ask any questions about your sexual health.

Some common tests include:

A urine sample.
A swab.
A blood test

Some STIs, such as hepatitis (A, B and C), syphilis and HIV, require a sample of blood taken from the arm. If you have had unprotected oral or anal sex, a throat swab or self-collected anal swab may be required.

Getting the results

Test results normally take about one week. If your result is positive, your sexual partners also need to be tested and treated. This is called contact tracing. You can do this yourself or you can use Let Them Know to notify someone anonymously.