When do I need to test ?
To get the most accurate results for an STI test, it is important to know when to test. It takes time before an STI infection will show up on a test. This is called the “window period”.
If you test too soon after exposure to an STI (during the “window period”), you may not get an accurate result.
If you want to be tested because of a specific sexual contact you had, we recommend testing at 3 weeks and 3 months following contact. At 3 weeks, most tests should detect an infection, and at 3 months most are considered accurate. There are some additional considerations for HIV and Hepatitis C, so if you have specific concerns it’s best to speak to a health care provider.
| Chlamydia | 2 to 6 weeks after contact for a urine or swab test. |
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| Gonorrhea | 1 week after contact for a urine or swab test. |
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Syphilis |
3 months after contact for a blood test. |
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HIV |
3 weeks after contact for a blood test. It may take up to 3 months to get an accurate result.
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Hepatitis C | 5 to 10 weeks after contact for a blood test. |
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How often should I test?
It’s a good idea to get tested for STIs regularly, usually every 3 – 12 months. For example, if you or your partner(s) are having sex with new or casual partners, you might want to test every 3 or 6 months. It is not usually recommended to test more often than every 3 months (ie. monthly).
GetCheckedOnline is a good option for testing when:
We recommend that you see a health care provider when:
You have symptoms, such as discharge, pain, itching, or sores on the genitals.
You had sex with someone who has an STI.
You want support after sexual assault.
You need a printed copy of your results with your name on it.
