HIV, Syphilis, Chlamydia, and Gonorrhea Test

What's the HIV rapid test all about?

• We use rapid tests because you get your results in just 20 minutes.
• These are 4th generation tests, and they're super accurate.
• For the rapid test, we take a few drops of blood from your fingertip with a tiny prick (it's called a capillary blood sample).
• This rapid test is an HIV combination test, which means it can find both HIV antibodies and the P24 antigen.
• After a risky situation, an HIV rapid test will only show accurate and reliable results after six weeks.
• If you get tested earlier, the result won't be accurate, and you'll need to repeat the test after six weeks. So, we recommend getting tested after six weeks.
• If a rapid test is reactive, you'll need a confirmation test with a blood sample taken from a vein.

What's the syphilis test?

• It's a blood test (also called a serological test) where we take a small amount of blood from your vein.
• Your blood sample is checked at the Dr. Risch lab to look for antibodies against the bacterium Treponema pallidum.

When's the best time to get tested?

• This test is most useful starting 6 weeks after you might have been exposed to the infection. That's because antibodies can only be reliably detected then.

How does the test work?

• We do a screening test (RPR or VDRL).
• If the result is reactive, we'll do a confirmation test.
• An infection is only confirmed if both tests come back positive.

Things to know

• Previous infection: If you've had syphilis before, please let the counselor know.
• Reactive result: You'll get a text message suggesting you see a doctor. It will also include your lab results, which you can show them straight away.

Why is this test important?

• If syphilis is found early, it can be easily treated with antibiotics.
• Finding it early stops serious, long-term health issues.
• If your partners might be affected, it's super important to let them know and get them tested too.

When will I get the results?

• You usually get your results in 2 to 5 days.
• We'll text you about what to do next.

What's the Chlamydia and Gonorrhea test?

• It's a swab test where we gently collect small samples from specific areas of your body.
• The process is painless.

What do we test for?

• Chlamydia and gonorrhea – both are infections caused by bacteria.
• These can spread quite easily through sexual contact, for example:
• Petting
• Oral sex
• Vaginal or anal sex
• Sharing sex toys
• Kissing (rare, but possible)

Where do we take the swab from?

• Depending on the person and their sexual practices:
• Throat
• Urethra opening (for people with a penis)
• Vaginal lining (for people with a vulva)
• Anus

How do we take the sample?

• We use little swabs to gently collect samples from your mucous membranes.
• These samples then go into tubes with a special liquid to keep them safe.
• After that, they're sent to Dr. Risch's lab to be analyzed.

When will I get my results?

• Results are usually ready in 2–5 days.
• If your test is positive:
• We'll send you an SMS advising you to start antibiotic treatment with a doctor.
• Important: Make sure to tell your sexual partners too, so they can get tested and treated if needed.