There are a lot of myths surrounding sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and STI testing. We’ve gathered some of the most common and answered them for you, so you can feel less anxious about the subject.
MYTH: They’ll tell my parents if I am under 16.
Our sexual health services are confidential. This means that we won’t tell anyone you came to see us, including partners or parents/carers. This applies to all ages, including people who are under 16.
Clinical records are also kept within our service, separate from GPs and other healthcare providers.
The only time we would need to break this confidentiality is if we believe you or someone else is at a serious risk of harm, and we would always try to talk to you about this first.
MYTH: To be tested for an STI, you have a big swab stuck up your penis!
Testing for STIs usually just involves a urine sample and blood sample. If you have symptoms, we may need a swab sample from the tip of your penis, but this is painless. We don’t stick the swab up your penis!
MYTH: I’ll need to have my genitals looked at when I go for a test.
Routine tests involve a urine test, genital swab or blood sample depending on the type of STI being tested. A genital examination is only performed if you have certain symptoms, such as blisters, lumps or bumps in your genital area. You will not need to be examined if you don’t have any symptoms.
MYTH: If my partner comes in, they’ll tell them my sexual health results/what we talked about.
Our sexual health services are confidential. This means we won’t disclose what is discussed in your appointment and test results won’t be shared with anyone, including partners, parents or carers.
Our health advisers can discuss with you how to tell your partner to get checked. If you prefer, they will contact partners for you to maintain your confidentiality.
MYTH: GPs will have access to the information too.
Our patient record system is separate to GPs and only staff members within our service can access your sexual health records. Your GP, hospitals, or any other professionals/services cannot access your sexual health record.
MYTH: The clinic staff will judge my decisions around sex
Our clinic staff are medical professionals who see all kinds of people who have all kinds of sex, every day. Our staff pride themselves on being non-judgemental, and it helps if you are as honest as possible so we can give you the best healthcare for your needs.
MYTH: People will know I’m there for an STI test
People come to our clinics for a variety of reasons, sometimes just for information and advice on sexual health. Our staff are discreet and confidential because we offer many different sexual health services. When you come for your appointment, no one will know what other people are at the clinic for.