Men's Health

STI Testing for Men: UK Online Doctor & Sexual Health

6 min readLast reviewed 24 April 2026

Educational information — not medical advice.

This article was prepared by the OnlineDoctor24 editorial team and reviewed for factual accuracy against UK clinical guidance (NHS and NICE). It is not written by a doctor and does not replace personal medical advice. For symptoms specific to you, book an online doctor consultation.

Key points

  • Most STIs are symptomless — testing is the only way to know.
  • Chlamydia, gonorrhoea, HIV and syphilis are the standard panel.
  • Free NHS sexual-health services exist; private testing is faster and more discreet.
  • Most STIs are easily treated — early treatment prevents complications.

What to test for

  • Chlamydia and gonorrhoea (urine or swab).
  • HIV and syphilis (blood).
  • Hepatitis B and C if at risk.
  • Herpes and HPV — symptom-led.

When to test

Window periods vary: chlamydia/gonorrhoea ~2 weeks; HIV 4th-gen test ~4 weeks; syphilis ~12 weeks. After unprotected sex with a new partner, retest at the appropriate window.

Treatment

  • Chlamydia: doxycycline 100mg twice daily for 7 days.
  • Gonorrhoea: ceftriaxone injection (clinic-based).
  • HIV/syphilis: specialist clinic.

Online doctor support

An online GP can arrange home test kits, prescribe treatment for chlamydia, and refer for in-person treatment where injections are needed.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions UK patients ask about sti testing for men.

How an online doctor can help

This article is for general information only and does not replace personal medical advice from a qualified doctor. Content is reviewed against UK NHS and NICE guidance by the OnlineDoctor24 editorial team and is not authored by a medical doctor. If your symptoms worsen or you are unsure, please book a consultation with a GMC-registered GP.

See a UK GP about this today

Same-day video or phone consultations with GMC-registered GPs. Prescriptions, sick notes and referrals when clinically appropriate.