Best to get checked.

Best to get checked.

 

Now it has become easier to find more information about infections and to get tested confidentially.

Today saw the launch of an Anonymous Notification Service on www.thesticlinic.com which will notify clients if they have an infection privately.

In 2009, statistics showed that there were 12,000 more cases of STIs than in 2008. This highlights the importantance of how getting tested can keep you and others healthy.

One in ten 15-24 year olds were diagnosed with an STI last year, and will get re-infected within a year.

Robert Mackay, Managing Director of The STI Clinic and the instigator of the Anonymous Notification Service explained: "It takes a brave individual to phone a sexual partner and suggest an STI test and we know that some patients test positive and never inform partners."

Many medical centres across the UK offer STI and HIV testing which provide confidential care to all.

Genito-Urinary Medicine Clinics (GUM):

GUM clincs are based usually on hospital sites across the UK. They offer full examinations including HIV tests. Upon arrival you fill out a simple form of about your sexual history and get tested. Once the examination is complete it can take up to about two weeks for your tests to come back. You will then receive a text message (or sometimes a "no news is good news" procedure is in place) the results of your tests.

Online Testing-

Online testing has become a popular way of getting tests and treatment without the hassle of seeing someone face to face. The procedure of registering to getting your results can be over within a matter of days. However using this method does require a small charge.

Community Testing-

Similar to the GUM clinic, testing is offered to the community and offers full screenings or just specific tests. Terrence Higgins Trust funds the "Fastest clinics."

Whatever your preference, getting checked at least once every 6 months or when you change sexual partners will benefit your health in the future. In women, leaving Chlamydia untreated can result in infertility.

Remember, it takes up to 14 days for most infections to be detectable.

Naomi Havergal

　

　

　

　

　

 

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