Testing for Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea is straightforward and hassle-free. If you're over 16 and live in St. Helens, you have two options:
1. Visit the Sexual Health Clinic at St Helens Hospital located on the lower ground floor, Monday to Friday, between 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
2. Order an online testing kit – you can complete the test at home and return it to us by post.
(Please note that online testing is only available for St. Helens residents. Unfortunately, we cannot offer online testing kits to people under 16 years old, as we need to ask a few additional questions to ensure you’re safe. However, it is still important to get tested for Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea if you have been sexually active. Please click below for more information on how to do a test if you're under 16 years old.)
If you live in St. Helens and you’d like to test for Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea, please use the options below to select your age group so we can provide you with the correct testing kit:
Essential Testing Information
- What is Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea?
Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea are two of the most common Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs).
- How are Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea transmitted?
These two STIs are commonly passed on through sexual contact, such as vaginal, anal or oral sex with an infected person.
- Why should I get tested for Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea?
If left untreated these infections can result in pain, Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), and infertility. Treatment can remove the infections, but it cannot always reverse any damage caused by untreated STIs.
- How can I test for Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea?
Getting tested is straightforward. You have three options:
1. Visit the GUM/Sexual Health clinic on the Lower Ground Floor of St. Helens Hospital.
2. Book an appointment by calling 01744 646473.
3. Order an online home testing kit (for residents of St Helens aged 16 and over).
- If I have symptoms, can I still order an online testing kit?
If you think you are experiencing symptoms of an STI, we strongly advise visiting the clinic instead of ordering online. This allows for quicker testing and possible treatment during your visit.
- Is it possible to test too early?
Testing less than 2 weeks after sex may lead to a false negative result. This is because it can take up to 2 weeks for Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea to show up on a test. It's therefore advisable to wait at least two weeks after any potential contact with an infected person before getting tested, to ensure accurate results. If you have any symptoms or are concerned, don’t hesitate to contact us for guidance. Early detection and treatment are crucial for maintaining your health and preventing the spread of these infections.
- How do I order an online testing kit?
Ordering a home testing kit online is simple. Just answer the questions below to guide you to the appropriate order form. Once you place an order, you’ll receive the kit in the post within 7 working days. Follow the included instructions to complete your test and return it to us.
- How will I receive my results?
Once you return your kit, we will send you your results within 10 working days via text message.
- What if I test positive?
Both infections can be easily treated with antibiotics. We advise that any current sexual partners seek treatment to prevent re-infection. Additionally, we always recommend that you inform any previous partners who may be at risk. If you prefer not to contact them directly, you can provide their details, and we can contact them anonymously.
- What if I’m under 16 and want to test for Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea?
If you are under 16, you can visit:
• The GUM/Sexual Health clinic at St. Helens Hospital (Open 9 a.m. to 4.30 p.m., Monday to Friday)
• The TAZ drop - in at Lowe House (Every Tuesday 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.)
• The Chester Lane Library drop-in (Every Thursday 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.)
• The TAZ Outreach team during school drop-ins. Click here to find out when they are in your school.
Unfortunately, we cannot offer online home testing for those under 16. This is because we need to ask you additional questions to ensure you are safe.