STI Testing FAQs
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Getting Started with STI Testing
When can I use the Online STI Screen (no appointment)?
You can use the Online STI Screen (no appointment) if you feel completely well, have NO symptoms (e.g. no pain, no burning, no discharge, and no rashes), or simply want a routine check-up, test before or after a new partner, or a follow-up test after treatment.
It’s NOT suitable if you have symptoms, are pregnant or have been informed a partner has tested positive for an STI. Instead, you should book a Telehealth STI Test to speak to a Specialist GP for expert advice.
When should I speak to a Specialist GP instead of using the Online STI Screen?
You should book a Telehealth STI Test to speak to a Specialist GP if you have any symptoms such as pain, burning, discharge or rashes, if a partner has tested positive for an STI, if you are pregnant, immunocompromised, need treatment, or are unsure what test you need.
What does the Online STI Screen include?
The Online STI Screen provides a pathology referral for a standard STI screen, based on current Australian testing guidelines. This includes a urine test for chlamydia and gonorrhoea, and a blood test for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis. If you have vaginal, oral, or anal sex, you can also request self-collected vaginal, oral, or anal swabs. If you are taking PrEP, the screen also includes the option to add kidney and liver function tests.
What if I’m not sure which STI test I need?
If you’re unsure, you can book a Telehealth STI Advice consultation. A Specialist GP will guide you through your options and recommend the most appropriate test or treatment. PLEASE NOTE, we do not provide STI test referrals or STI treatment eScripts with this service.
*This service is bulk-billed for eligible Medicare cardholders with no out-of-pocket cost to you. A flat fee of $49 applies if you do not have Medicare.
Can I speak to someone before placing an order?
Yes. Our Telehealth STI Advice consultation allows you to speak with a Specialist GP before ordering a test or treatment. They can help you understand symptoms, risk factors and which testing option suits you best. PLEASE NOTE, we do not provide STI test referrals or STI treatment eScripts with this service. *This service is bulk-billed for eligible Medicare cardholders with no out-of-pocket cost to you. A flat fee of $49 applies if you do not have Medicare.
Can I get tested for STIs if I’m taking PrEP?
Yes. People taking PrEP should be tested for STIs regularly, usually every 3 months. You will usually need additional tests including kidney and liver function as well as throat and anal swabs.
STI Testing – What to Expect
What does an STI test involve?
An STI test typically involves providing a urine sample and a blood test. Optional self-collected vaginal, oral, or anal swabs are available if you have vaginal, oral, or anal sex. Fasting is not required, and the process is generally quick and painless. A pathology nurse will provide clear instructions on how to collect your urine sample and any self-collected swabs, if needed.
How long does an STI test take?
The testing itself usually takes just a few minutes. Once your sample is collected at the pathology lab, you’re free to go.
Can I get tested for multiple STIs at once?
Yes. Our Full STI Screen tests for several common infections at the same time, including chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis. If there are other STIs you would like to be tested for that are not included in this list, please book a Telehealth STI Test to speak with a Specialist GP about additional testing options.
How accurate are STI tests?
STI tests are highly accurate when processed by accredited labs. While no test is 100% perfect, false positives or negatives are rare when the correct methods are followed.
Can I get an STI test if I don’t have symptoms?
Yes. Many STIs don’t cause symptoms, so regular screening is recommended, particularly before or after new sexual partners. If it has been a while since your last test or since you changed partners, STI testing is still recommended every 12 months.
How long does it take to get STI results?
Results usually arrive within 2–3 days, although in some areas it may take up to 7 days. We will send your results via SMS as soon as they are available. If you haven’t received your results after 7 days, please get in touch via our contact page and let us know which pathology lab you attended. We will follow up with them to have your results sent through as soon as possible.
What happens if I test positive?
If your test result is positive, you should book a Telehealth STI Treatment consultation. A Specialist GP will provide treatment options, send eScripts, advise on partner notification, and guide you through follow-up testing.
Should I get another STI test after treatment?
Yes. A follow-up test is usually recommended around four weeks after treatment to confirm the infection has cleared. Your Specialist GP will advise on the best timing.
What do I need to know about STI testing in pregnancy?
STI testing is important during pregnancy, as some infections can affect both mother and baby. Your Specialist GP will advise on which tests are recommended and when.
Telehealth and Treatment
What is the cost of an Online STI Test or Telehealth consultation?
The Online STI Screen (no appointment needed) starts from $39 and includes a full STI test referral sent to you by SMS. You can walk into any of over 5,000 pathology labs across Australia for same-day testing. It’s only suitable if you have NO symptoms.
If you need to speak with a Specialist GP, a Telehealth STI Test or STI Treatment consultation costs $49.
Do the STI tests themselves cost extra?
No, not if you have Medicare. Pathology testing is bulk-billed for eligible Medicare cardholders with no out-of-pocket cost to you. If you do not have Medicare, additional pathology fees may apply. However, some private health insurers or overseas student health insurance providers may cover the full cost of the pathology tests. Please check with your insurer for details.
What is the cost of follow-up if I test positive?
If you test positive, a $49 STI Treatment telehealth consultation covers review by a Specialist GP, eScripts, and advice for partner notification and follow-up. Medications are not included but are usually affordable and readily available from most local pharmacies.
Can I get treatment from a Specialist GP through this service?
Yes. Our Specialist GPs can provide prescriptions, treatment plans, and follow-up testing referrals via telehealth. Treatment is fast, confidential, and sent directly via SMS.
Testing Locations and Access
Where can I get tested in Australia?
You can get tested at any of over 5,000 pathology labs across Australia. Once you receive your SMS referral, you can attend your chosen location – no appointment required.
Can I walk in for STI testing?
Yes. Once you have your pathology referral by SMS, you can walk into any pathology lab Australia-wide without booking. This applies to most labs except on Sundays and public holidays.
Are there testing centres in rural and regional areas?
Yes. Australia’s pathology lab network covers metro, rural, and remote parts of Australia. No matter where you’re located, there’s likely a participating lab nearby.
Is STI testing confidential?
Yes, all of our STI testing services are completely confidential. Your results and personal information are handled securely by Australian-registered Specialist GPs and are never shared without your consent. We do not upload any results to My Health Record, so your testing remains entirely private and discreet. If you would prefer NOT to have any record of your test linked to your name, you can choose to be tested without using Medicare or private health insurance. (To arrange this, please book a Telehealth STI Test consultation with one of our Specialist GPs.)
Are STIs notifiable in Australia, and will my results be reported?
Yes, in Australia, certain STIs are legally notifiable, including chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis. For chlamydia, the pathology lab reports your result directly to the health department. For gonorrhoea, syphilis, hepatitis, and HIV, reporting may also be completed by the Specialist GP involved in your care.
All notifications are handled under strict privacy laws. Your name is not included – reports are sent in a de-identified format and are used solely for public health purposes. Your information is NEVER shared with employers, family members, or insurers.
Offers and Health Awareness
Is there free STI testing available?
Yes. Every September, as part of Sexual Health Awareness Month, we offer FREE Online STI Screens (no appointment required) and bulk billed Telehealth Consultations for eligible Medicare card holders. PLEASE NOTE: The pathology tests themselves are bulk billed for eligible Medicare card holders with no out-of-pocket cost to you. If you do not have Medicare, additional pathology fees may apply. However, some private health insurers or OSHC (overseas student health cover) may cover part or all pathology fees. Please check with your insurer for details.