STI Blood Screen

What does this test include?

The STI Blood Screen covers the following infections:

• HIV
• Syphilis
• Hepatitis B
• Hepatitis C

All of the above infections can be acquired through sexual contact.

How does the test work?

We send you a kit for collecting a small amount of blood from a finger prick. The kit is very easy to use and is specially designed for patients to use at home. Only a tiny amount of blood is required. The kit comes with easy to follow instructions.

Once you have collected the blood sample, you send it back to our lab in the business reply envelope provided. The sample normally arrives at our lab the following day if it is being sent from within the UK.

How long do results take?

Results are available through your secure online account within 4 hours of the sample arriving in the lab.

Is the testing accurate?

Our lab uses the latest testing technologies for all of the infections covered. For HIV, for example, we use 4th generation testing procedures that seek to detect the p24 antigen as well as antibodies for HIV1 and HIV2.

When should I get tested?

The earliest that any of these infections on the STI Blood Screen will show up is 10 days after exposure. It can take up to 6 weeks for some of the infections to be detectable so if your results are negative then we will recommend a retest after the 6 weeks point. Do not delay getting tested until 6 weeks have passed, as early detection is important.

What happens if the result is positive?

If Syphilis antibodies are detected then we will run further tests to let you know if the infection is current or if a past and treated infection is indicated.

If we get a reactive result for any of the other results then we have to refer you to a clinic near where you live in order for further confirmatory testing to be carried out. This is exactly the same procedure as happens if you were to attend a GUM clinic in person for the initial test.

If we are able to provide a negative result after 6 weeks post exposure then you should consider this to be a conclusive result and no follow-up is required unless there is a subsequent potentially risky event.

Other Test Options