Information & FAQs
Stay informed with the latest information on sexual health and related conditions. Access reliable resources on common Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and other sexual health topics.
FAQs
Should I get tested for STIs?
You should get tested if you have symptoms of an STI, such as unusual genital or anal discharge, pain, rash, or sores. It’s also important to get tested if you’ve been in contact with someone who has an STI. Even if you don’t have any symptoms and feel healthy, regular testing is recommended for sexually active individuals, especially those with multiple partners.
Which STIs do you test for?
We usually test for common STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, and HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Viruses). HPV (Human Papillomavirus) and HSV (Herpes Simplex Virus) are not part of routine testing unless you have specific symptoms. If you’re concerned about these or other STIs, let us know, and we can discuss appropriate testing based on your symptoms and risk factors.
How Soon Should I Get Tested After Having Condomless Sex?
- Chlamydia and Gonorrhea: Test 1-2 weeks after the event for the best results.
- Syphilis: Test 3-6 weeks after the event. Some tests may require up to 12 weeks for accurate results.
- HIV: Test 4 weeks after the event. Some tests may require up to 12 weeks for accurate results.
Important: If you have been in contact with someone who has an STI, do not wait—get tested as soon as possible.
If you’re unsure about when to test, please contact us.
What is HIV PrEP?
HIV PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a daily or on-demand medication that helps prevent HIV infection if you’re at high risk. It works by stopping the virus from spreading in your body. If you think you might be at risk for HIV, get in touch with us to talk about whether HIV PrEP is right for you.
What is HIV PEP?
HIV PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a treatment for preventing HIV after possible exposure if you are not already taking HIV PrEP medication, but it is not needed if your partner has an undetectable viral load (U=U), meaning the virus cannot be transmitted. HIV PEP involves taking medication for 28 days and, for it to be effective, it should be started as soon as possible after the exposure, ideally within 72 hours. If you need to access HIV PEP, please contact Wellington Afterhours Medical Centre (LINK) or Wellington Regional Hospital Emergency Department (ED).
What is DoxyPEP?
DoxyPEP is an antibiotic taken within 72 hours after potential exposure to prevent STIs, especially syphilis, for those at high risk. It’s recommended for people with recent syphilis, or at least two bacterial STIs such as chlamydia, in the past year, but is less effective for gonorrhoea and does not replace regular STI testing or prevention methods.
Learn More About:
• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhoea
• Syphilis
• HIV/AIDS
• HPV
• Genital Herpes
• Mpox
Sexual Health 101 Online Testing
