What is an STD?
An STD or STI is a sexually transmitted disease or infection. One of the reasons why STDs are so common is because they are often “silent”, meaning you may be infected without showing any signs or having any symptoms. STDs can be transmitted through sexual contact, shared drug use, skin-to-skin, breastfeeding or to an unborn child during pregnancy.
How do I know if I have an STD?
You may not. Often, STDs like chlamydia and gonorrhoea have no signs or symptoms. You won’t see a bump or a rash or have an itch. That’s one of the reasons why STDs are so common and problematic. If you are worried about an STD then the only way to find out is to get tested. Testing is fast, easy and painless and you can do it without leaving your home by ordering a home test. If you test positive, we can set up an appointment for you with a private GP.
Which STDs can I get tested for?
You can get tested for many of the most common STDs including: Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Herpes, Trichomonas, Mycoplasma, and Ureaplasma. You simply buy a test here and we’ll send you a postal pack the next day (If ordered before 4pm Monday to Friday). When it arrives, simply urinate in the cup and send back the sample in the prepaid postal pack. Result times can vary on the tests ordered, we will notify you via email when the results are ready and you can login to our site to view your results.
Are the tests offered accurate?
Yes. All our tests are done by The Doctors Laboratory which is one of the UK’s leading labs. These are the gold standard tests in the industry, using nucleic acid amplification technology, DNA PCR technology and type specific testing.
Is oral sex considered “safe sex”?
In a word, no. You can get an STD from oral sex, both giving and receiving. It is a relatively lower-risk activity compared to vaginal or anal sex. But, to be safe, use a latex or polyurethane condom or a dental dam when giving or receiving oral sex. The main concern is cuts or sores in the mouth. Herpes is spread from skin to skin contact. You should know that condoms decrease the risk but are not 100% effective in preventing herpes transmission during oral sex. Syphilis is very easy to spread through oral sex. Bottom line? Oral sex is not safe sex.
