Should I Get Tested?

If you’re wondering whether it’s time to get tested for STIs, you’re not alone. Everyone’s circumstances are different, so the best choice depends on your recent sexual activity, partners, and symptoms. This guide will help you decide which sexual health tests might be right for you.

If you’re uncertain, ManaPlus recommends starting with a Full Sexual Health Screen or our Comprehensive Platinum Screen, as it only takes one encounter to transmit an STI or HIV

I’ve Had Oral Sex

STIs can be transmitted through oral sex, especially if there are cuts, sores, or active infections present. Common infections spread this way include Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, and increasingly, Syphilis. HIV is also a small risk.

We recommend a Throat Swab for Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea, plus blood tests for Syphilis and HIV. If there was contact with cold sores, consider a Herpes test as well.

I’ve Had Sex with a Sex Worker

Sex with a sex worker can be high-risk due to frequent exposure to multiple partners. If the worker is also a drug user, the risk of bloodborne infections increases.

We recommend a Full Sexual Health Screen or Platinum Screen. If your encounter was within the last 28 days, go for the Early Platinum Screen, which detects HIV and other STIs just 14 days after exposure.

I Had a One-Night Stand and Need Results Fast

Avoid further sexual contact until you’ve been tested. STIs can still be transmitted during the “window period” before detection is possible.

Recommended options:

  • Early Platinum Screen (14 days)

  • Early Detection Screen (10 days) for HIV, Hep B & C

  • Comfort Screen (14 days) – urine-only panel

  • Peace of Mind Screen (14 days) – for common STIs

For fast reassurance, our Instant Tests deliver results in 20 minutes at select clinics.


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We Only Touched, No Sex

Even without penetration, some infections like HPV, Herpes, Syphilis, or Hepatitis B/C can spread via skin-to-skin contact.

We suggest:

  • Early Detection Screen (10 days) for bloodborne viruses

  • HPV Testing (swab for women, wart sample for men)

  • Herpes Test (blood if no symptoms, swab/urine if symptoms)

  • Blemish Screen for any suspicious lumps or sores

I’ve Had a Needlestick Injury at Work

If you’ve been pricked by a used needle, especially in a healthcare setting, act quickly.

  • Seek PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) within 72 hours

  • Get a Hepatitis B vaccination if not already immune

We recommend:

  • Early Detection Screen (10 days post-injury)

  • Syphilis test

  • Follow-up testing at 4 and 12 weeks

I’m Not Sure What Happened

If you can’t recall details or are feeling anxious, it’s still worth getting tested.

We recommend:

  • Full Screen for general peace of mind

  • Blemish Screen for visible signs (e.g. lumps, sores)

  • Comfort Screen or vaginal swab for women with unusual discharge or odour

We’re Trying for a Baby

STIs can impact fertility and pregnancy, so both partners should be tested before conception. Infections can also be passed on to the baby.

Recommended:

  • Full Screen for both partners

  • Add Herpes and HPV tests

  • HIV testing is critical before pregnancy

I’ve Just Found Out I’m Pregnant

Get tested immediately to protect your baby’s health. Many STIs have no symptoms but can still affect pregnancy outcomes.

We recommend:

  • Full Screen or Platinum Screen

  • Add HPV testing

  • Consider Herpes testing if you’ve had cold sores or blisters

It Only Happened Once

Even a single encounter can lead to an infection. If you’ve had unprotected sex, get tested.

  • Full Screen is ideal

  • If you notice any blemish, get a Blemish Screen

  • Women with symptoms should consider a Comfort Screen or vaginal swab

My Ex Told Me They Have an STI

If your former partner tested positive, it’s vital to get tested yourself — even if you have no symptoms.

We suggest:

  • Matching their test if known

  • Full Screen for broader coverage

Most public clinics only test for HIV, Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, and Syphilis. We test for additional STIs like Mycoplasma, Ureaplasma, and more.

The Condom Broke

It’s frustrating when protection fails. Both partners should get tested for a full range of STIs.

  • Full Screen for comprehensive coverage

  • Peace of Mind Screen (14 days post-incident) for common infections if risk of HIV is low

I’ve Had or Given Anal Sex

Anal sex carries a high risk of transmitting STIs, including HIV, due to the delicate nature of the rectal lining.

  • Full Screen is recommended

  • Add Rectal Swabs for Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea (results in 2 days)

I’ve Given Oral Sex

STIs can be spread through giving oral sex, especially if you had mouth sores or cuts.

  • Throat Swab for Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea

  • Consider adding HIV test if transmission risk was present

Have more questions or need help booking? Our team is here for you 7 days a week. Click below to book your confidential STI test today.


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Why Choose ManaPlus.co.uk?

Discreet and confidential testing

Fast, accurate results

Comprehensive medical support

Accessible home testing options

Partnerships with UK health experts

Your health and peace of mind are our mission. If you need support following a positive STI result, contact ManaPlus.co.uk today for expert advice, treatment, and ongoing care.

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