STI Testing Peterborough

Free STI Testing in Peterborough

Worried you’ve contracted an STI? We provide free STI testing at our Peterborough pregnancy centre.

Maintaining good sexual health is as essential as maintaining overall physical and mental health; getting tested for STIs is nothing to be embarrassed or ashamed about. With this said, we understand that getting tested and treated for STIs can be very sensitive, and you can be assured that all STI appointments are private, discrete, and confidential.

What are Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)?

A Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) is a bacteria, virus, or parasite spread through sexual contact. Many STIs may have no symptoms and can cause serious health problems if left untreated.

Bacterial vs. Viral Infections

Bacterial infections such as Gonorrhea, Chlamydia and Syphilis can be cured with prescribed medications. However, viral infections such as Hepatitis and HIV often require more involved ongoing treatment plans.

Why Get Tested for STIs?

Regular STI testing is essential to maintain good sexual health and protect yourself and your partner(s) from potential infections.

STI Testing Process

At our centre, our experienced healthcare professionals use a range of tests to detect and treat STIs. Testing is quick and easy; results are usually available within one to two weeks. During your visit, we will explain the testing process and answer any questions you may have.

STI	Signs & Symptoms
Chlamydia & Gonorrhea	Females (Vaginal): • Discharge • Painful urination • Abdominal or back pain • Spotting • Painful intercourse Males (Penile): • Discharge • Itchiness • Painful urination • Testicle pain • Swelling Sometimes there are no signs or symptoms for Chlamydia or Gonorrhea, but if left untreated both can to serious complications.
Syphilis	• Beginning: Painless sores • 2-24 weeks: Feeling sick, fever, swollen glands, weight loss, headache, rash, hair loss, eye infection, warts, or meningtits. Untreated syphilis can lead to brain, heart, bone or vessel damage and can lead to death.
Hepatitis B & C	• Half of people do not present symptoms, but the other half experience fatigue, nausea/vomiting, low appetite, rash, joint pain, and yellowing of the eyes and skin.
HIV	• 2-4 weeks: Mild flu symptoms • Years later: Fever, fatigue, weight loss, diarrhea, swollen lymph nodes, abnormal pap exams, shortness of breath, cough, vision loss, yeast infections, sores, herpes, and anemia. • If HIV progresses to AIDS, it can lead to severe infections, cancer, dementia, and death.