Key points at a glance
🧪 STI tests provide clarity
Tests can detect infections at an early stage, even if there are no symptoms.
📅 Test regularly
If you have a frequent change of sexual partners, it may be advisable to get tested regularly for chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis.
📍 Lots of testing centres
STI tests are available at, amongst other places, doctors’ surgeries, specialist HIV clinics, AIDS support organisations, public health authorities and checkpoints.
🤝 Consultation included
Many screening programmes combine the test with a personal consultation, and some allow you to take part anonymously.
What is an STI test?
An STI test can be used to determine whether you have a sexually transmitted infection. Many sexually transmitted infections can be treated effectively if they are detected.
The test used depends on the possible pathogen and the symptoms present. Possible tests include, for example:
- Visual diagnosis
- Swab
- Urine test
- Blood test
- Stool test
Not every sexually transmitted infection causes noticeable symptoms. Some symptoms are also not recognised as STIs. That is why it can be a good idea to get tested even if you have no specific symptoms.
STI testing if you have symptoms or suspect you may have an STI
Testing for sexually transmitted infections is particularly important if you experience any symptoms or have a specific suspicion. Many STIs can be treated effectively and cured if detected early.
One test that is useful, for example, is:
- If you have any concerns: These include foul-smelling discharge from the urethra, vagina or rectum, a burning sensation when passing water, itching, and blisters or sores in the genital or anal area.
- Following a tip-off from sexual partners: If you are told that a sexual partner has a sexually transmitted infection, you should get yourself checked.
- During pregnancy: As well as an HIV test, tests for other sexually transmitted infections are also recommended. Some infections can be passed on to the baby during pregnancy or at birth. The risk of premature birth may also increase.
Regular STI tests
If you have a high turnover of sexual partners, it may be advisable to get tested regularly for chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis. This allows infections to be detected and treated at an early stage. It also reduces the risk of passing them on.
You can discuss with your doctor or at a counselling centre how often it is advisable to have a test.
Also a HIV test may be advisable as part of an STI screening. Following a diagnosis of syphilis, an HIV test should be considered. Testing counselling can help with this assessment.
Regular testing for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections is also part of HIV-PrEP.
For People with HIV Specific testing recommendations apply. The appropriate intervals should be discussed with HIV specialists.
STI testing: Where can I get tested?
You can get tested for sexually transmitted infections at various places:
- General practitioners’ surgeries and specialist practices: These include, for example, general practitioners’ surgeries, clinics specialising in skin and sexually transmitted diseases, gynaecology, urology and clinics specialising in HIV. If you have symptoms or a specific suspicion, the costs can be covered by your health insurance.
- AIDS support organisations and public health authorities: Many organisations offer STI tests alongside counselling. These services can be used anonymously.
- Checkpoints and pilot projects: You can also get tested for sexually transmitted infections there. Testing advice is usually included in the service.
Frequently asked questions
When is it advisable to have an STI test?
An STI test is advisable if you have symptoms or if a sexual partner has mentioned a sexually transmitted infection. If you have multiple sexual partners, regular testing for chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis may be advisable. STI tests are also recommended during pregnancy.
Where can I get tested for STIs?
STI tests are available at general practices, specialist clinics and clinics specialising in HIV. AIDS support organisations, public health authorities, Checkpoints and other testing initiatives also offer testing. In some cases, anonymous testing with counselling is available at these locations.
Are self-tests for sexually transmitted infections recommended?
Many of the self-tests available online are not recommended, as the results are often inaccurate. s.a.m health offers a service where samples are taken at home and then analysed in a laboratory.
What happens after an STI diagnosis?
Many sexually transmitted infections can be treated and cured. Where possible, recent sexual partners should be informed. This enables them to undergo tests and receive treatment. It also helps to prevent re-infection.
Is there a duty to report sexually transmitted diseases?
That depends on the infection. HIV and syphilis are not reported by name to the Robert Koch Institute. Where acute viral hepatitis A to E is suspected, a named report is made to the public health authority.
