Sexually transmitted infection testing is an important aspect of proactive sexual health management. Many STIs are asymptomatic, meaning individuals can carry an infection without experiencing any noticeable signs. For this reason, laboratory testing — rather than symptom monitoring — remains the reliable method for confirming infection status.
Same-day STD testing refers to the ability to attend a private sexual health clinic, provide samples, and begin the laboratory testing process within a single visit. While samples are collected on the same day, result turnaround times depend on the specific infection being tested and the laboratory processing method used.
This article explains what same-day testing involves, which infections can be screened for, how results are processed, and how to prepare for your visit.
Quick Answer: Can You Get Same-Day STD Testing in London?
Yes. Same-day STD testing in London allows individuals to attend a private sexual health clinic, provide samples during the same visit, and begin the laboratory testing process immediately. While samples are collected on the same day, result times depend on the specific infection tested and the laboratory processing method.
What Same-Day Testing Typically Includes:
- •Same-day appointment availability
- •Immediate sample collection
- •Blood, urine, or swab testing
- •Confidential laboratory processing
- •Results delivered once analysed
Result turnaround times vary depending on the test type.
What Does Same-Day STD Testing Mean?
Same-day STD testing means that the appointment, consultation and sample collection all take place during a single clinic visit. There is no requirement to return on a separate day for sample provision — the process begins immediately.
Once samples have been collected, they are sent to an accredited laboratory for analysis. The laboratory uses validated testing methods to detect the presence of specific infections. Depending on the type of test and the infection being screened for, processing may take varying amounts of time.
It is important to understand that same-day testing refers to the sample collection process, not necessarily same-day results. While some rapid screening methods may provide preliminary information quickly, many laboratory-based tests require additional processing time to deliver accurate results.
What Infections Can Be Tested on the Same Day?
Same-day sample collection is available for a range of common sexually transmitted infections. The specific tests included may vary depending on individual circumstances and clinical guidance, but commonly screened infections include:
- •HIV – detected through blood testing, with different test types offering varying detection windows
- •Syphilis – screened via blood sample analysis
- •Hepatitis B and C – identified through blood-based laboratory testing
- •Chlamydia – commonly tested using urine samples or swabs
- •Gonorrhoea – tested via urine or swab samples
A comprehensive STI screening panel may include multiple infections tested from a single visit. The sample type — blood, urine or swab — depends on the infection being screened for.
We provide laboratory-based STI screening. Treatment arrangements are managed separately if required.
How Fast Are STD Test Results?
Result turnaround times depend on the type of test performed and the infection being analysed. There is no single timeline that applies to all STI tests, as different laboratory methods require different processing times.
Some rapid screening methods may provide preliminary results relatively quickly. However, PCR-based tests — which detect the genetic material of specific pathogens — typically require 1 to 3 working days for laboratory processing. Blood-based tests for infections such as HIV, syphilis and hepatitis may also vary in timing depending on the laboratory and the specific assay used.
It is also important to consider the window period when interpreting results. Testing too soon after a potential exposure may produce a negative result even if infection is present. In such cases, repeat testing at an appropriate interval may be recommended to confirm the result.
Results are communicated securely and confidentially once laboratory analysis is complete.
How to Prepare for an STD Test
Preparation for STI testing is generally straightforward, though some considerations may help ensure the accuracy and reliability of your results.
- •Urine tests: It is generally advisable to avoid urinating for 1 to 2 hours before providing a urine sample, as this may affect the concentration of detectable material
- •Medical history: Bringing relevant medical history, including any current medications, can be helpful during the consultation
- •Exposure timing: Knowing the approximate date of any potential exposure helps the clinical team advise on appropriate testing and whether the window period has passed
- •Pre-test guidance: Some clinics may advise avoiding sexual contact prior to testing — follow any specific guidance provided before your appointment
These are general considerations. Specific preparation guidance may vary depending on the tests being performed, and the clinic team can provide tailored advice when you book.
Can You Walk In for Same-Day Testing?
Some private clinics offer walk-in sexual health clinic services, allowing individuals to attend without a prior appointment. However, availability of walk-in services varies between providers and may depend on clinic capacity and demand on any given day.
Appointment systems differ between clinics. Some operate on a walk-in basis, while others use pre-booked appointment slots to manage patient flow and ensure that specific tests are prepared in advance.
Booking ahead may reduce waiting time and help ensure that the required tests and sample collection materials are available during your visit. If walk-in availability is important to you, it is worth checking with the clinic directly before attending.
When Should You Consider Same-Day STD Testing?
There are a number of circumstances in which same-day STI testing may be appropriate. These include:
- •New sexual partner: Testing after a new partner provides a baseline understanding of infection status
- •Unprotected sexual contact: If barrier protection was not used, testing can help identify any infections that may have been acquired
- •Symptoms present: Unusual symptoms such as discharge, discomfort or skin changes may prompt testing to identify or rule out infection
- •Routine screening: Regular testing as part of ongoing sexual health management, regardless of symptoms
- •Peace of mind: Testing following any potential exposure event provides clarity and reduces uncertainty
The decision to test is a personal one. Same-day testing offers the convenience of completing sample collection promptly, supporting timely access to laboratory results.
What Happens During the Appointment?
A same-day STI testing appointment typically follows a structured process designed to ensure accuracy, confidentiality and patient comfort.
- •Confidential registration: Personal information is collected securely and handled in accordance with data protection requirements
- •Sample collection: Depending on the tests selected, samples may include blood, urine or swabs. Collection is carried out by trained clinical staff
- •Brief consultation: The clinical team may discuss relevant history and advise on appropriate testing based on individual circumstances
- •Result process explanation: You will be informed about how and when to expect your results
- •Secure result communication: Results are delivered through a confidential channel once laboratory analysis is complete
Testing for specific infections, such as an HIV test, follows the same confidential process with samples processed in accredited laboratories.
Can You Get Fast STI Results Without Symptoms?
Yes. STI testing does not require symptoms to be present. Many sexually transmitted infections are asymptomatic — meaning they produce no noticeable signs — and can only be identified through laboratory testing.
Asymptomatic infections are common across a range of STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhoea and HIV. An individual may carry an infection for an extended period without any outward indication. This is one of the primary reasons why routine screening and testing after potential exposure are considered important aspects of sexual health management.
The timing of testing relative to a potential exposure event is important. Each infection has a window period during which the test may not yet be able to detect it reliably. Testing outside the window period provides greater confidence in the accuracy of results. If testing is performed early, repeat testing at an appropriate interval may be recommended.
Laboratory confirmation is required regardless of whether symptoms are present or absent.
Is Same-Day STD Testing Accurate?
The accuracy of STI testing depends on several factors, including the type of test used, the infection being screened for, and the timing of the test relative to a potential exposure.
Laboratory-based testing methods are considered highly reliable when performed after the appropriate window period has elapsed. Fourth-generation antigen/antibody tests for HIV, for example, are considered highly reliable from approximately 28 days after potential exposure. PCR-based tests for infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea are similarly accurate when timed appropriately.
If testing is performed during the window period, a negative result may not be conclusive. In such cases, confirmatory testing at a later date may be recommended. The clinical team can advise on appropriate testing intervals based on individual circumstances.
Same-day sample collection does not affect the accuracy of the test itself. The same validated laboratory methods are used regardless of whether the appointment was booked in advance or attended on the same day.
People Also Ask
Can I get same-day STD testing in London?
Yes. Many private sexual health clinics in London offer same-day appointments for STI sample collection. Samples are collected during the visit and sent to an accredited laboratory for analysis. Result turnaround times vary depending on the specific test and infection being screened for.
How quickly do STD results come back?
Turnaround times vary depending on the infection and test type. Some rapid screening methods may provide preliminary results on the same day, while PCR-based tests and blood tests typically require 1 to 3 working days for laboratory processing. Confirmatory testing, if required, may extend the timeline.
Do I need symptoms to get tested?
No. Many sexually transmitted infections are asymptomatic, meaning they produce no noticeable signs. Testing does not require symptoms to be present. Individuals may choose to test as part of routine screening, after a new sexual partner, or following a potential exposure event.
Is walk-in STD testing available?
Some private clinics provide walk-in sexual health clinic services depending on availability and demand. However, appointment systems vary between providers. Booking ahead may reduce waiting time and help ensure that the required tests are available during your visit.
How should I prepare for an STD test?
Preparation may vary by test type. For urine-based tests, it is generally advisable to avoid urinating for 1 to 2 hours beforehand. Bringing relevant medical history and knowing the timing of any potential exposure can help the clinical team advise on appropriate testing. Follow any specific guidance provided by the clinic before attending.
This article is for general information. Laboratory testing is required to confirm any infection.
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For general information only — not a substitute for professional advice. In an emergency call 999, visit A&E, or call NHS 111.