STI Management Standards in the UK
Our Commitment to Your Care
UNAIDS 2030
At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre, your privacy, comfort, and health are always our top priorities. We follow the Standards for the Management of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) set by the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH). These national standards ensure that every patient receives confidential, evidence-based, and compassionate care - from accurate testing to effective treatment.
Why STI Standards Matter
Sexually transmitted infections are common and treatable, but they require early detection and the right medical guidance. The UK’s national standards, established by BASHH and supported by NICE and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), ensure that all sexual health services deliver consistent, safe, and high-quality care.
At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre, we combine these national guidelines with our own Marylebone High Standard - a commitment to exceptional testing accuracy, patient experience, and follow-up support.
Who Sets STI Management Standards in the UK?
The British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH) develops clinical and operational standards for managing STIs.
These standards cover:
• Diagnosis and testing protocols
• Evidence-based treatments
• Confidentiality and consent
• Partner notification and prevention
• Record-keeping and follow-up care
They apply to NHS and private healthcare providers alike, ensuring that every patient in the UK receives safe, consistent, and respectful sexual health services.
Key Principles of STI Management
Every consultation is private. Our team provides a supportive, non-judgmental environment where you can discuss symptoms, relationships, or sexual health concerns with complete confidentiality.
We use gold-standard laboratory testing methods for all common STIs, including RT-PCR (Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing), serology, and culture-based methods. Accurate testing ensures you receive the right treatment at the right time - reducing complications and transmission risk.
All treatments follow BASHH’s most recent clinical guidelines. We avoid overuse of antibiotics and ensure every prescription is based on laboratory evidence, helping combat antimicrobial resistance.
If your test is positive, we can support you in notifying partners discreetly and respectfully. This step is essential to protect others, prevent reinfection, and contribute to public health safety.
Education is key to prevention. Our clinicians offer clear advice on safe sex, vaccinations (HPV and Hepatitis B), and regular testing to help you stay in control of your health.
BASHH Standards at a Glance
| Area | Standard | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Diagnosis | Use validated RT-PCR tests for chlamydia and gonorrhoea | BASHH 2019 |
| HIV Testing | Offer opt-out HIV screening in all STI assessments | BASHH & NICE |
| Partner Notification | Contact at least 80% of recent partners for follow-up | BASHH PN Standards |
| Treatment | Use evidence-based antibiotics per current guidelines | BASHH 2021 |
| Record-Keeping | Ensure confidentiality and secure patient data | GMC / BASHH |
| Training | Ongoing staff training in sexual health and infection control | BASHH 2023 |
Common STIs and How They Are Managed
• Detected using RT-PCR testing (urine or swab)
• Treated with recommended first-line antibiotics
• Partners are advised to test and receive treatment simultaneously
• Tested by RT-PCR or culture for antibiotic sensitivity
• Managed with a single dose of intramuscular antibiotic
• Partner testing is strongly recommended
• Detected via blood tests (RPR/TPHA)
• Treated with penicillin injections or oral antibiotics
• Early detection prevents long-term complications
• Screening includes the HIV 1/2 & P24 antigen test
• Early diagnosis enables prompt access to antiretroviral therapy
• Counselling and discreet follow-up are provided
• Diagnosed via swab or blood test
• Managed with antiviral medication and lifestyle guidance
• HPV testing for certain high-risk types
• Vaccination available for prevention
• Advice on safe sex and routine screening for women
• Detected via RT-PCR or microscopy
• Treated with targeted antibiotics
• Re-testing may be advised to confirm clearance
Our Marylebone High Standard
We go beyond the basic national standards.
At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre, we apply our Marylebone High Standard, which includes:
• Same-day sample collection and testing where possible
• Advanced laboratory accuracy for all blood, urine, and swab tests
• Experienced biomedical scientists and clinicians trained in BASHH standards
• Strict infection-control procedures for every patient encounter
• Complete discretion - from booking to results delivery
Your Visit: What to Expect
1. Book online or call our Baker Street clinic.
2. Arrive discreetly - no long waits or GP referrals.
3. Provide your sample (blood, urine, or swab).
4. Receive results securely via email or WhatsApp.
5. Discuss next steps with our clinical team if treatment is required.
Our goal is to make testing quick, confidential, and stress-free - whether it’s a routine screen or you’re experiencing symptoms.
Book NowWhy Regular STI Testing Matters
Many STIs show no symptoms at first, meaning infection can go unnoticed. Untreated infections can lead to serious complications, including infertility, chronic pain, or increased HIV risk.
We recommend:
• Annual screening for all sexually active adults
• Testing after a new or multiple partners
• Immediate testing if you experience unusual discharge, pain, or rashes
Private STI Testing in London
Our clinic offers a wide range of discreet sexual health services:
• Comprehensive Sexual Health Panel (Advanced SH1)
• HIV 1/2 & P24 Antigen Test
• Syphilis (RPR/TPHA) Test
• Chlamydia & Gonorrhoea RT-PCR Test
• Urine & Swab Analysis
All tests meet UK laboratory standards and are analysed according to BASHH guidance.
Partner Care and Prevention
We provide guidance on how to inform partners and support them through testing and treatment.
Our clinicians also advise on condom use, vaccination, and safe-sex education - vital steps in preventing reinfection and protecting community health.
Visit Marylebone Diagnostic Centre
We are based at 73 Baker Street, London, just minutes from Marylebone and Paddington stations. Walk-ins are welcome, and online booking is available.
- Call us: 020 77 240 540
- WhatsApp: 07495 970 109
- Email: [email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions
They are defined by the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH), ensuring safe, effective, and consistent care across all sexual health services.
Yes, we offer confidential, walk-in and pre-booked STI testing with same-day appointments available.
Most results are available within 24–48 hours, depending on the test.
Absolutely. All records and results are handled in line with GDPR and medical confidentiality standards.
Our clinicians will contact you directly and guide you through treatment, partner testing, and aftercare.
References
• British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH) Guidelines
• National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) – Sexual Health
• UK Health Security Agency – STI Data and Prevention
