Testing for sexually transmitted infection (STIs) is simple, quick and discreet. The sooner you get tested, the sooner you can begin treatment if you need it.
Many people with STIs have no symptoms. This means that it’s important to regularly get tested for STIs. You might feel a bit awkward or embarrassed about getting tested, but you are doing a great thing by taking care of your health.
In Derby and Derbyshire you can either attend one of our confidential sexual health clinics for free screening and treatment, or you can order a free test online.
STIs are really common and anyone can get one. Your age, gender and sexuality does not matter. That’s why it’s a good idea for everyone who has sex to get tested at least once a year. This is even more important if you:
- have started having sex with someone new or you’ve had multiple sexual partners, even if you’ve been using condoms
- have had unprotected sex (sex without a condom or if the condom slipped off or split)
Men who have sex with men and have multiple partners are advised to get tested every 3 months because they are statistically more at risk. This advice also applies to sex workers.
If you think you might have been exposed to an STI, or you have symptoms you’re worried about, it’s better to get tested as soon as possible.
Remember that some infections will not show up right away and you may need to wait for at least a few weeks before testing. If you are not sure whether to test or wait you can call our information and booking line on 0800 328 3383 for totally confidential advice.
If you believe you may have been exposed to HIV in the last 72 hours (3 days), head straight to A&E or a sexual health clinic as soon as you can to get PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis). This medicine can stop an HIV infection taking hold after the virus has entered your body.
If you don’t have any symptoms and you are 16 or over, you can order a free test online to do in the comfort and privacy of your own home.
Read more about ordering a test online. If you have any symptoms, or would just prefer to speak to someone in person, call 0800 328 3383 to book an appointment.
Our line is open Monday to Saturday, except bank holidays:
• Monday to Thursday: 8am-7pm
• Friday: 8am-5pm
• Saturday: 10am-1pm
You can also find a clinic near you online.
If you are under 16, we will need to see you in person to make sure we are giving you the best possible support. Your visit is still completely private and we will not tell anyone about it unless we think you are in serious danger – and even then we would discuss it with you first.
It’s natural to feel nervous or embarrassed about visiting an STI clinic, but there’s no need to worry. The staff are used to testing and treating all kinds of infections and they will never judge you.
It might help to read our guide to what happens when you visit a sexual health clinic before you go.
If you have tested using an at-home test you’ll receive your STI results by text within a week.
If you’ve visited one of our clinics in Derby and Derbyshire you can get the results of some tests on the same day. For others, you may have to wait for a week or two. If you do need to wait staff at the clinic will check how you’d prefer to receive your results.
It can come as a shock to find out you have an STI. We are there for you, with information, treatment and support.
Try to keep in mind that most STIs can be cured and the others can be managed with the right treatment. All your treatments will be free and we will help you feel as safe and supported as we can.
Your diagnosis is your business. We will never tell anyone about it. However, once you know you have an STI you may need to let your current and past sexual partners know about it so that they can get tested too.
If you think you would find this too difficult or embarrassing, we can do it for you. We can contact them by text without giving your name. You can also call us, on 0800 328 3383, for details of this service if you're being treated elsewhere.