Sexual Health & HIV Testing in London – Fast, Private 4th Generation Tests
Reviewed by Dr Lauren Holland • Marylebone Diagnostic Centre
Results within 24 – 42 hours. Westminster residents receive 20% off.
Sexual health testing is an essential part of looking after your wellbeing. Many people in London prefer private clinics where they can receive fast results, discreet care and same-day appointments. HIV testing has also advanced, with modern 4th generation tests detecting infection earlier and with greater accuracy. Patients often look for a walk-in option, confidential support and a clinic that offers reliable STI and HIV screening without long waiting times.
This guide explains how HIV testing works, what 4th generation tests detect, when to test after unprotected sex, and why many patients choose a private clinic such as Marylebone Diagnostic Centre for their sexual health screening.
What Is a 4th Generation HIV Test?
A 4th generation HIV test checks for:
- HIV p24 antigen
- HIV-1 and HIV-2 antibodies
Because it detects the antigen, it identifies HIV earlier than older tests.
Detection window
- Most people show accurate results from 28 days after exposure.
- Some people will show infection slightly earlier.
The 4th generation test is the recommended modern test for early detection.
What Sexual Health Tests Does MDC Offer?
Marylebone Diagnostic Centre provides a confidential range of tests including:
- HIV 4th generation test
- Syphilis (RPR / TPHA)
- Hepatitis B & Hepatitis C
- Advanced Sexual Health Panel (Advanced SH1)
Includes chlamydia, gonorrhoea, mycoplasma, ureaplasma, trichomonas and others. - Urine analysis
- Blood tests for general wellness
- Follow-up options where required
All tests are processed with QC-validated accuracy under the Marylebone High Standard.
When Should You Get Tested After Unprotected Sex?
Different infections have different detection windows.
If you are unsure, MDC can guide you on the correct timing.
Symptoms That Need Sexual Health Testing
You should consider an STI or HIV test if you have:
- burning during urination
- unusual discharge
- pelvic or testicular pain
- bleeding after sex
- rashes or ulcers
- swollen lymph nodes
- fever
- night sweats
- fatigue with recent sexual exposure
- no symptoms but recent unprotected sex
Many STIs, including HIV, often show no symptoms at all.
Why Choose a Private Sexual Health Clinic in London?
Patients often choose MDC because they prefer:
- fast and discreet appointments
- no crowded waiting rooms
- results within 24–42 hours
- confidential handling of personal information
- consultations in private suites
- clear communication
- options to add additional panels
- testing without referral
Many people also choose private testing because they do not want records shared outside clinical pathways.
What Does a Sexual Health & HIV Test Cost?
Pricing varies depending on the panel chosen:
| Test Type | What It Includes | Best For | Turnaround |
| HIV 4th Generation Test | p24 antigen + HIV antibodies | Early HIV detection | 24–42 hours |
| Advanced Sexual Health Panel (Advanced SH1) | Full STI panel including blood + urine tests | Full screening after unprotected sex | 24–42 hours |
| Syphilis, Hep B, Hep C | Blood tests | Risk exposure or symptoms | 24–42 hours |
| Urine Analysis | UTI + general screen | Burning, discomfort, pelvic pain | Same day or 24 hours |
Prices are provided at booking and depend on the combination of tests required.
Do You Need to Prepare for an HIV Test?
No fasting is required.
Simply avoid urinating for at least 1 hour before any urine-based STI test.
Is HIV Testing Private and Confidential?
Yes.
MDC provides:
- no sharing of results beyond your consent
- secure result delivery
- private consultation rooms
- discreet handling at reception
Many patients choose private clinics for this reason.
Table: Which Test Should You Choose?
| Situation | Recommended Test | Notes |
| Recent unprotected sex (last 7 days) | Advanced SH1 + early HIV test | Repeat HIV later if needed |
| Concern about HIV only | HIV 4th generation | Best at 28 days |
| Symptoms such as discharge or burning | Advanced SH1 | Covers all major infections |
| Pain after sex or pelvic pain | Advanced SH1 + Urine Analysis | Very common symptom pattern |
| Concern after multiple partners | Full sexual health screening | Most complete option |
FAQs – Sexual Health & HIV Testing in London
Book Your HIV and Sexual Health Test at Marylebone Diagnostic Centre
Marylebone Diagnostic Centre
73 Baker Street, London W1U 6RD
Tel: +44 7495 970109
Open Monday–Saturday, 08:00–16:00
Fast, private and confidential testing with results in 24–42 hours.
Westminster residents receive 20% off.
Quick Links
- HIV 4th Generation Test
- Advanced Sexual Health Panel
- Sexual Health Tests
- Syphilis Test
- Hepatitis B & C Tests
- Urine Analysis
