What Happens at the STI Clinic?
There has been a recent upsurge in new cases of syphilis. Syphilis is very treatable if diagnosed early and it is extremely important to treat all sexual contacts of diagnosed patients. It is also important to carry out a full STI screen as many of those infected are at risk of HIV and other infections.
You will need to make an appointment for most clinics, unless they provide a drop-in service. You don’t have to be referred by or have a letter from your GP. The service is confidential. This means that you are identified by a number rather than by your name. The service is also free.
An STI screening can take around two hours. First, a doctor will take your sexual history. Don’t worry about shocking them – they’ve heard it all before. Then you will have a series of tests. Blood tests are used to test for HIV, Hepatitis B and syphilis. Swabs are used to examine material from a discharge or an infected area. If you are having a HIV test, an advisor will talk you through it.
You may receive some results while you are at the clinic. If you need treatment, they will give you the medication there and then. This is free of charge. A sexual health advisor will meet you to explain safer sex practices, answer any questions you may have and discuss your results. You will get another appointment to come back for the rest of your results.
What men should expect
- You will be asked not to urinate for at least four hours before your appointment
- You may have a throat swab, penis swab and anal swab
What women should expect
- You may have a throat swab, vaginal swab and a cervical swab
Source: Health Service Executive, 2007
