Sexual Health

The doctors at SmartClinics are experienced in all areas of sexual health, from contraception to family planning and sexually transmitted infections.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are the result of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that are usually passed from one person to another during vaginal, anal, and oral sex. The infection begins through contact with infected body fluids such as blood, vaginal fluids, or semen. Some infections, like herpes, can also be transmitted via kissing if legions are present.

Many STIs are easily diagnosed through simple tests at your doctor’s appointment and can be treated without any ongoing issues. If you are concerned that you may have an STI, please visit your doctor sooner rather than later, as some infections can worsen over time and cause serious health issues.

Where can I get an STI check?

All doctors at SmartClinics offer STI checks / STD checks, testing and treatment, in a non-judgmental and caring environment. Your personal information is strictly confidential, and we believe that it is better to have peace of mind when it comes to your health, so there is no need to feel embarrassed about getting tested.

What happens at the appointment?

Your doctor at SmartClinics will ask you to provide a urine sample and arrange a blood test which will be sent off to the lab for testing against a number of common STIs. The results are usually available 1-2 days after your appointment.

If you have visible signs of an STI, we advise that you have your genital area examined by your GP; however, we understand that this can be uncomfortable for some patients. In this case, we would ask you to describe the area to your GP.

It is important to remember that your doctor performs these examinations all the time – it is their job to make sure you are healthy so there is no need to feel embarrassed.

What will it cost?

The cost is dependent on the pathology lab. Often, these tests can be bulk billed. If you would like to know if there will be an out-of-pocket fee, please ask our friendly reception team before your appointment. Our reception team take your privacy seriously, and your personal information will be kept confidential.

Treatment

All STIs are treatable however, HIV, Herpes, Hepatitis Band Genital Warts are not always curable. The caring and non-judgmental doctors at SmartClinics will provide you with the best course of action to manage the STI. With correct management, this will not affect your ability to have sex.

Prevention

The best way to prevent an STI is to practice safe sex. Condoms are the most obvious, but they may break, so if you have a new sexual partner, it’s a good idea for you to both get tested by your GP before you make sexual contact.

Symptoms and treatment for common STIs and STDs

If you are concerned that you might have a sexually transmitted infection, please click here to read more about common STIs and STDs and make sure you see a SmartClinics GP sooner rather than later.

HOW TO BOOK

If you would like to book an appointment for an STI test, please contact your local SmartClinics Family Medical Centre. Appointments can be made by phone and many clinics also offer online bookings. All doctors at SmartClinics can order STI tests. However, some doctors have a special interest in sexual health.