Free STI test kits
You can order an online STI test kit which we post to you at home. Through this service, we test for chlamydia and gonorrhoea.
If you are aged 16-24 you can also pick up the same test kit from the Zone or any of these enhanced service pharmacies. Your own GP might be an enhanced service GP and also offer these kits.
When to test
STIs may not show up on tests straight away after sex – this delay is known as the ‘window period’:
– for chlamydia and gonorrhoea, the window period is 2 weeks
(please note the chlamydia test can remain ‘positive’ for 6 weeks after treatment, even though the infection has cleared. Do not re-test within this 6 week period)
Getting your results
Negative (all clear) results
If your test results are ‘negative’ (all clear), we will let you know by text message (SMS), within 14 days of us receiving your samples. If you did your tests over different days (i.e. bloods at our off-site venue and you sent in a swab/urine separately) you will receive two text messages.
We send this text once all your tests are back. For example: ‘Your results from tests taken/received by the lab on (date) are OK (satisfactory). No infections were found. SHiP. NO REPLY’
Positive results
If your test results are ‘positive’ for chlamydia or gonorrhoea, we will send you a text message (SMS) with a scheduled phone appointment. For example: You have tested positive for chlamydia/gonorrhoea. You will be called on **/**/** at **:** to arrange treatment. No sex until treatment completed. SHIP
We may also try to call you.
For other positive results, we will call you.
By ordering a kit online you are consenting to receive any of these text messages.
Important
If you are under 16 we cannot send out kits. Please call us on 01752 431124 to book an appointment, come to a ‘walk-in and wait‘ clinic or visit the Zone.
Please do not order a kit if you are planning to visit us in
Please do not order a kit earlier than a week before you need to test – it will be flagged as a ‘non-return’.
We aim to get your results back to you by text (SMS) within 10 working days.
What is chlamydia
Chlamydia is the most commonly diagnosed sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the UK, affecting 1 in 10 young people under the age of 25. The Chlamydia bacteria infects semen, vaginal fluids and saliva and is easily passed from one person to another through unprotected sex, including oral sex.
What are the symptoms of chlamydia?
Chlamydia is the most commonly diagnosed sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the UK, affecting 1 in 10 young people under the age of 25. The Chlamydia bacteria infects semen, vaginal fluids and saliva and is easily passed from one person to another through unprotected sex, including oral sex.
What is chlamydia so serious?
If treated early, chlamydia does not often cause long-term problems. If treated late, or if treatment is not completed, it can lead to serious problems such as infertility, Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), prostate and testicular infections. In pregnancy, it can cause miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy and premature labour.