Results
If you have had a test for a sexually transmitted infection (STI), you may be informed of the result immediately. However, you may have to wait several weeks for the results of some tests.
If you have been tested for thrush or bacterial vaginosis, you will usually be told straight away whether or not you have either infection. After a sample of cells has been taken, the healthcare professional who is conducting the test will be able to examine the sample under a microscope for signs of infection.
Getting your test results
Staff at the sexual health clinic will ask for your permission before phoning you with your test results.
Some clinics also run a text messaging service, where a text message is sent to your mobile phone to inform you about your results. The message will not make it obvious that you attended a sexual health clinic and will not go into detail about any tests that you have had. It will either inform you that you need to ring the clinic to speak to an advisor or that your results were negative and you do not need to visit the clinic again.
Alternatively, you may be asked to come into the clinic to get your test results and to talk to an adviser. This will be the case if you are diagnosed with HIV. If your test results are positive (it is confirmed that you have HIV), you will receive the full support of a healthcare professional who will be able to provide you with help and advice.
Treatment and advice
If your test results show that you have an STI, a healthcare professional at the clinic will be able to discuss your results with you and advise you about possible treatment options.
Many STIs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea, can be treated with antibiotics (infection-fighting medication). Others, such as HIV, are not curable.
If you have HIV, staff at the clinic will arrange for you to have an appointment with a counsellor, as well as advising you about treatments that can be used to control the condition and slow its progression.
Preventing STIs
The best way to protect yourself against getting a STI, including HIV, is to practice safe sex. You should always use a condom when you have sex, including oral and anal sex.
If you are diagnosed with a STI, it is very important that you follow the advice that is given to you at the sexual health clinic with regards to having sex while you are being treated. This will help you and your partner avoid becoming re-infected and prevent you having to go through the treatment process again.
It is a crime to knowingly infect someone with HIV.
