Being a healthysexual means getting regular sexual health check-ups and tests.

Sexual health is part of our general wellbeing. Just like all other areas of health, having check-ups and tests is part of helping to keep us healthy. It is recommended that you get tested once a year or when you change sexual partners.

STI testing

Having a STI test is the only way to know for sure if you have an STI. These tests are quick and easy and are usually free or low cost.

There are a range of STI tests you may need depending on your sexual behaviours. These tests may include a urine sample, blood test, and swabs.

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.

Some common tests include:

Syphilis

• blood test
• swabs of any sores on body parts that are used for sex

HIV

• blood test

Mpox (previously called monkeypox)

• swabs of any sores on the body
• mpox is not considered a sexually transmissible infection, but if often spread through close, skin-to-skin contact, including on body parts that are used for sex.

Chlamydia

• swabs of any body parts that are used for sex
• urine sample

Gonorrhoea

• swabs of any body parts that are used for sex
• urine sample

Hepatitis B

• blood test

Human Papillomavirus (HPV strains associated with cervical cancer or anal cancer)

• cervical screening
• anal screening

Some STIs are only tested if you have symptoms:

Herpes (HSV)

• swabs of any genital sores

Genital warts (HPV strains not associated with cervical or anal cancer)

• diagnosed through visual assessment by a healthcare worker, not by testing

The sooner you know you have an STI, the better it is for your health and that of your partners.

Getting treated quickly reduces the risk of passing STIs to your partners. Early treatment greatly reduces the risk of having long-term and complex health problems.

Where to get tested

You can get an STI test at a doctor’s clinic. Many hospitals, sexual health clinics, and non-government services offer confidential, free tests for STIs.

Find a service.

Getting treated

Treatment for many STIs is quick and easy.

The most common STIs are usually cured by antibiotics. All STIs can be treated and managed.

Remember, you will need to tell your sexual partners so that they can be tested and treated if needed too.