TimeToTest Back to home

TimeToTest support and clinic finder

Someone who cares about your health sent you this. You're anonymous. No one knows you're here. Let's figure out what to do together.

PEP is only effective for HIV. If you're worried about other STIs, the testing information below applies.

Find your nearest sexual health clinic

What to expect at a sexual health clinic

1

Walk in, no appointment needed

Most NHS sexual health clinics are drop-in. You don't need a referral from your GP, and you don't need an appointment. Turn up during opening hours and take a seat.

2

Bring only yourself

You don't need ID, an NHS number, insurance, or any paperwork. You can give any name you like at reception, including a nickname. The visit is free.

3

A short private conversation

A nurse or doctor will see you in a private room. They'll ask a few questions to decide which tests make sense, including recent symptoms and who you've had sex with. You don't have to give names.

4

Quick tests

Depending on what's relevant, testing usually involves a urine sample in a cup, a small blood sample from your arm, and one or two swabs (often self-taken behind a curtain). The whole thing typically takes 10 to 20 minutes.

5

Results by text or phone

Most clinics send results by secure text within a week. If anything needs treatment, they'll call you to arrange it. If you test positive, treatment is free and confidential.

6

Your privacy is protected

Nothing is shared with your GP unless you specifically ask for it. The clinic does not tell anyone you were there.

Waits vary from 10 minutes to a couple of hours depending on how busy the clinic is. Many clinics have online booking for a specific time slot if you'd rather not wait.

Questions to ask the doctor

You don't need to prepare, but these are useful to have in mind.

  1. Which tests do you recommend for me today?
  2. How will I get my results, and how long will they take?
  3. If I test positive, will treatment start the same day or later?
  4. What's the best way to let recent partners know without saying it's me?
  5. When should I come back for a re-test, and for which infections?
  6. Am I eligible for PrEP (to prevent HIV) or the hepatitis B or HPV vaccine?

This page provides information only. It is not medical advice. For emergencies call 999 (UK), 112 (EU), or 000 (Australia/NZ).

Back to TimeToTest home