Getting tested is simple

Most STI tests are quick and private. Many don't need a physical exam at all — often it's just peeing in a cup, a swab you collect yourself, or a small blood sample. You can ask to be tested for one thing or for several at once.

You can get tested even if you feel completely fine. In fact, most STIs have no symptoms, so testing is the only way to know for sure.

What you might be tested for

• Chlamydia and gonorrhea — usually a urine sample or a self-collected swab. If you've had anal or oral sex, a throat or rectal swab can be added.
• Syphilis and HIV — a small blood sample.
• Hepatitis C — a blood test; see the clinic's hepatitis C information.

If you've had anal or oral sex, mention it — a complete test may include the throat and rectum, not just the genitals.

Is it too early to test? (the "window period")

After a possible exposure, your body needs a little time before a test can pick up an infection. This gap is called the window period. Testing too early can miss something, so here's a plain guide:

• Chlamydia & gonorrhea: reliable at about 2 weeks.
• HIV: the modern blood test usually shows up by 2–3 weeks, and a negative result is confirmed again at 3 months.
• Syphilis: can take 2 to 6 weeks (sometimes up to 12) — a very early test may need to be repeated.

Worried you were exposed very recently? You don't have to wait to get help. If it may have been in the last 72 hours, there is emergency medicine (PEP) that can prevent HIV — see "I was exposed." Otherwise, it's fine to test now and, if it's early, test again after the window. When in doubt, come in — you won't be turned away for testing "too early."

What it costs and how to come in

How to arrange this at AHC: you can book an appointment with your Ajax Harwood Clinic provider, or come to our after-hours clinic. AHC is a family practice with after-hours care — we are not a walk-in clinic for people who are not AHC patients, and we do not take outside referrals for STI care.

If you have OHIP, STI testing and treatment at Ajax Harwood Clinic are covered by OHIP. If you are not OHIP-insured, services are private pay (out-of-pocket) — ask us about the cost so it isn't a barrier. — many STI tests are covered by OHIP; if you don't have OHIP, ask us about options so cost isn't a barrier.

Your results and your visit are private. This page collects no information about you.