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Sexual health is an integral part of everyone's general wellbeing
Undetected sexually transmitted infections can bring life-changing consequences for overall health, and in particular for fertility - happily, once detected they are very treatable. Therefore, being screened is a wise and responsible step for your own health, and that of those you care about. Whether you have a specific sexual health concern, or would simply like a routine check (perhaps at the beginning of a new relationship, or in anticipation of trying to conceive) you can be assured of Winchester GP's non-judgmental, fully confidential screening service.
STIs are a widespread concern
According to Public Health England, in 2014 there were approximately 440,000 diagnoses of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the UK. The most common STI was chlamydia with 206,774 new cases diagnosed. It only takes one intimate contact to contract an infection, so if you have ever had unprotected sex, you could be at risk. Further more, many STIs do not show symptoms for long periods of time, so testing is the only way to know for sure whether you (or anyone else) might be affected.
Winchester GP offers affordable testing and counselling for the commonly contracted STIs
Chlamydia and gonorrhoea are two of the most commonly contracted STIs. If you believe that you have been exposed to either of these infections we can offer you screening through a simple urine test, with results next day if conducted in the morning.
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Winchester GP advocates a 'gold standard', fully comprehensive screen.
Whilst we are happy to test for individual infections, according to your specific concerns, it is widely recognised that where one STI is detected, there is a high chance there will be a separate co-existing infection. With this in mind, your doctor may recommend broader testing. Details of two commonly ordered packages are given below. Our favoured screen is the early detection package, which can detect the key viral STIs (HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C) within just 10 days of initial exposure, thereby removing the need for re-testing after a further incubation period.
What about treatment for STIs?
Some infections can be treated effectively within our own generalist setting. However, in other cases the most appropriate course of action will be an onwards to a specialist GUM clinic or sexual health consultant. You doctor will be able to advise, based on the latest clinical guidance in each case.
How do I book?
The first step is to book a 20 minute consultation - either online (if you are happy for a video or telephone consultation in the first instance) or by calling 01962 776010 for a face to face appointment. Our doctor can discuss your concern and recommend an appropriate testing protocol. Results should be available approximately 48 hours after samples are taken, at which point our doctor will call you to deliver your results and discuss any treatment as necessary.
Are you aiming to conceive?
Winchester GP can offer a full range of fertility and pre-conception care and advice, including onward referrals to fertility specialists, as required.
Winchester GP STI Screening Prices
Note on incubation periods:
Standard blood tests detect HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C after the following incubation periods: HIV usually 10-90 days but up to 180 days, Hep B average of 60 - 90 days, Hep C average of 45 - 65 days. Therefore, if using the standard tests, re-testing after a further incubation period may be necessary. Winchester GP recommends using the Early Detection tests for prompt peace of mind.