What is STD testing for women?
STD testing checks for sexually transmitted infections using a vaginal swab, urine sample, blood sample or a combination of these. The tests you need depend on your symptoms, sexual contact and when a possible exposure happened.
STI is the term commonly used by healthcare professionals. You can have an STI without symptoms, and testing does not always require an internal examination.
Explore private STI testing at MDCPrivate testing and express appointments in London
Marylebone Diagnostic Centre offers private, confidential sexual health testing at 73 Baker Street. If you need prompt testing, ask our team about same-day appointments and express options for your selected tests.
Confirm your expected result time before booking. Appointment availability and laboratory turnaround are different: a same-day appointment does not necessarily mean same-day results.
Which samples might I need?
| Sample | What it may check | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Vaginal swab | Infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea. | A small swab collects a sample. Self-collection may be possible; ask when booking. |
| Urine | Certain genital infections, depending on the test. | Follow the collection instructions. A urine sample does not replace every swab or blood test. |
| Blood | HIV and syphilis; hepatitis testing where appropriate. | A blood sample is taken from your arm. |
| Other swabs | Infections at the throat, rectum or a visible sore. | Selected according to exposure and symptoms. Mention oral or anal contact during assessment. |
Our Most Popular Sexual Health Profiles
Explore these options on MDC’s Sexual Health page . The most suitable profile depends on what needs checking, not simply the number of tests.
Sexual Health Basic
£149Covers HIV, syphilis, chlamydia and gonorrhoea. Check sample requirements and suitable timing.
Explore the Basic profile →Sexual Health Plus
£199A PCR panel for multiple genital organisms using urine or a swab. It does not replace HIV blood screening.
Explore the Plus profile →Advanced Sexual Health Profile
£249Listed by MDC with HIV, syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhoea and additional investigations. Review the full inclusions with the team.
View MDC’s popular profiles →Unsure which profile to choose?
Tell the team about symptoms, exposure dates and any recent treatment. Ask which samples and tests are suitable before booking.
Ask MDC about your options →Prices checked on 20 September 2026. Bars compare price, not suitability or diagnostic quality. Confirm current inclusions, any express charges and the total before booking.
What happens at an appointment?
- 1. Discuss Explain your concerns and agree which tests are appropriate.
- 2. Collect Provide the required samples with instructions from the team.
- 3. Follow up Receive results through the agreed method and discuss next steps if further care is needed.
Questions women often ask about STI testing
Do I need an internal examination?
Not always. Screening can often use a self-taken swab and blood sample. Symptoms may require an examination; the clinician should explain why and obtain your consent.
Can I test without symptoms?
Yes. Testing may be appropriate after a new partner or possible exposure, even when you feel well.
Is cervical screening an STI test?
Cervical screening helps prevent cervical cancer and checks for high-risk HPV. It does not replace testing for infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, HIV or syphilis.
How soon after sex should I test?
The window period varies by infection and test. An early negative result may need repeating. If you have symptoms, seek advice promptly rather than waiting for a testing window to pass.
Will one profile test for every STI?
No. Check the exact infections and sample sites covered. A genital test does not automatically check the throat or rectum.
What happens if my result is positive?
You may need clinical review, treatment and advice about partners. Confirm what follow-up MDC provides and whether consultation or treatment has a separate fee.
Take the next step with MDC
Explore private sexual health testing at our Baker Street clinic. Compare profiles or ask about the earliest appointment and express options available for your tests.
Marylebone Diagnostic Centre
73 Baker Street, London W1U 6RD
Need help choosing? Contact our team .
