HIV, syphilis, chlamydia and gonorrhea test

What is the HIV rapid test?

• We use rapid tests, as the result is available after just 20 minutes.
• These belong to generation 4 and are precise.
• For the rapid test, individual drops of blood are taken from the fingertip with a small puncture (capillary blood sampling).
• This rapid test is an HIV combination test and can detect both antibodies against HIV and the P24 antigen.
• After a risk situation, an HIV rapid test can only show an accurate and meaningful test result after the sixth week.
• If a test is taken earlier, the result will not be accurate and should be repeated after the sixth week. We therefore recommend that you take a test after six weeks.
• If a rapid test is reactive, a confirmation test with a venous blood sample must be performed.

What is the syphilis test?

• This is a blood test (serological test) in which a small amount of blood is taken from the vein.
• The blood sample is examined in the Dr. Risch laboratory to detect antibodies against the Treponema pallidum bacterium.

When is the test useful?

• The test is useful from 6 weeks after a possible risk of infection. Only then can antibodies be reliably detected.

How does the analysis work?

• Screening test (RPR or VDRL) is performed.
• If the result is reactive, a confirmation test follows.
• An infection is only confirmed if both tests are positive.

Special features

• Previous infection: Please tell the counselor if you have already had a syphilis infection.
• Reactive result: You will receive a text message with the recommendation to consult a medical specialist, as well as the laboratory results, which you can submit directly.

Why is this test important?

• If detected early, syphilis is easily treatable with antibiotics.
• An early diagnosis prevents long-term and serious consequences.
• If partners are affected, information and testing of sexual partners is crucial.

When will the result be available?

• You will usually receive the result after 2 to 5 days.
• You will be informed about the next steps by SMS.

What is the chlamydia and gonorrhea test?

• This is a smear test in which small samples of mucous membrane are taken from certain parts of the body.
• The procedure is painless.

What is tested?

• Chlamydia and gonococcus (gonorrhea) - both bacterial infections.
• These can be transmitted relatively easily through sexual acts, e.g:
• Petting
• Oral sex
• Vaginal or anal sex
• Shared use of sex toys
• Kissing (rare, but possible)

Where is the swab taken?

• Depends on the person and the sexual practices:
• Throat
• Urethral opening (for people with a penis)
• Vaginal mucosa (in people with a vulva)
• Anus

How does the sampling process work?

• Mucous membrane samples are taken with small sticks.
• These are placed in tubes with preservative liquid.
• They are then sent to Dr. Risch's laboratory and analyzed.

When will I receive my results?

• Results are available after 2-5 days.
• In the event of a positive result:
• Notification by text message with advice to start medical antibiotic therapy.
• Important: also inform sexual partners so that they can be tested and treated if necessary.