What Tests Should You Take After Unprotected Sex? Your Complete Guide (London)
Reviewed by Dr Lauren Holland • Marylebone Diagnostic Centre, 73 Baker Street
Same-day STI testing • Private & discreet • Results in 24–42 hours
Westminster residents receive 20% off.
Many people search for sexual health testing after a new partner or after unprotected sex. The most common questions in London include:
- “What test should you take after sex?”
- “What tests are done after unprotected sex?”
- “How long after sex should I get tested NHS?”
- “How long do you get tested after sex?”
- “Symptoms of STD in female”
- “Symptoms of STD in male”
- “How to know if you have an STD without testing?”
This guide explains what to test for, when to test, early symptoms, and where to get fast, private testing in London.
Do You Need a Test After Unprotected Sex?
Yes – especially if:
- You had a new partner
- The condom broke
- You had unprotected vaginal, oral, or anal sex
- Someone you were with has symptoms
- You want peace of mind
Many STIs have no symptoms. Testing is the only way to know.
What Tests Should You Have After Unprotected Sex?
A complete sexual health screen usually includes:
Urine test
For chlamydia and gonorrhoea.
Swab test
Vaginal, throat, or rectal swabs if needed.
Used for gonorrhoea, trichomonas, and mycoplasma.
Blood test
For HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B and C.
Results take 24 – 42 hours at MDC.
Additional tests (if symptoms)
Such as BV or thrush swabs for women.
At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre, all tests are:
- Fast
- Discreet
- Doctor-reviewed
- Returned in 24–42 hours
- QC-validated for accuracy
How Long After Sex Should You Get Tested?
Different infections show up at different times.
Chlamydia & Gonorrhoea
Test after 2 weeks, or sooner if symptoms appear.
HIV (4th generation test)
Accurate at 28 days.
A test at 14 days can pick up many cases but should be repeated.
Syphilis
Best tested at 28 days after exposure.
Hepatitis B & C
Reliable from 28 days onward.
If you have symptoms
Test immediately, regardless of timing.
Marylebone Diagnostic Centre can guide you on timing during your visit.
What Are the Early Symptoms of an STI?
Many STIs have no symptoms, but when they do appear, they may include:
Early STI Symptoms in Women
- Pain when urinating
- Pelvic discomfort
- Unusual discharge
- Bleeding after sex
- Vaginal itching
- Lower abdominal pain
- Pain during sex
- Strong odour
- Fever (in severe infections)
Early STI Symptoms in Men
- Burning urination
- Penile discharge
- Testicular discomfort
- Redness or irritation
- Painful ejaculation
- Sores or ulcers
- Persistent sore throat after oral sex
Symptoms vary.
The only reliable way to know is through testing.
How to Know If You Have an STD Without Testing
You cannot confirm an STI without a test.
Symptoms can guide suspicion, but:
- Some STIs have no symptoms
- Some symptoms mimic thrush or BV
- Anxiety can create false alarms
- Waiting too long can cause complications
Testing is the safest option.
Are STI Tests Free on the NHS?
Yes. NHS options include:
- 56 Dean Street
- Burrell Street Clinic
- Local borough clinics
- GP sexual health testing
- Free NHS home test kits (under 25s and some boroughs for over 25s)
However:
- Appointments can be limited
- Walk-in clinics can be crowded
- Full panels are not always offered
- Results may take longer
Many London-based patients choose private testing for speed and privacy.
Free STI Home Test Kits (NHS)
Available for:
- Under 25s
- Some over 25s depending on borough
- Chlamydia, gonorrhoea, HIV, syphilis in some areas
Not suitable if:
- You have symptoms
- You want a full advanced panel
- You need testing urgently
Same-Day Private STI Testing (London)
Marylebone Diagnostic Centre provides:
- Same-day appointments
- Advanced sexual health panels
- Urine, blood & swab testing
- Fast results (24–42 hours)
- Private rooms
- Reviewed by Doctor
- 5 minutes from Baker Street Tube
Westminster residents receive 20% off.
How Long Do STI Results Take?
At MDC:
- Results arrive in 24–42 hours
- Doctor explanation available
- All tests follow QC-validated standards
Fast, reliable, and fully confidential.
When Should You Test Immediately?
You should book urgent testing if you notice:
- Burning urination
- Penile or vaginal discharge
- Pelvic pain
- Lower back pain
- Pain during sex
- A sore or ulcer
- Bleeding between periods
- Fever
- Strong smell or discomfort
Or if:
- A partner tells you they tested positive
- You had a condom break
- You had unprotected sex recently
Which Tests Does MDC Offer?
- Basic Sexual Health Profile
- Advanced Sexual Health Profile (Full Panel)
- HIV, syphilis, hepatitis blood tests
- Chlamydia & gonorrhoea urine tests
- Vaginal swabs (BV, thrush, trichomonas)
- Throat & rectal swabs (if required)
- Mycoplasma & ureaplasma tests (symptom-based)
Book STI Testing in Central London Today
Marylebone Diagnostic Centre
73 Baker Street, London W1U 6RD
📞 +44 7495 970109
📅 Monday–Saturday | 08:00–16:00
🚇 Baker Street Tube — 5 minutes away
Private • Same-day • Fast results • Doctor-reviewed
Westminster residents: 20% off
