Got questions about STI testing?
We have answers!
Just like a physical health check, a sexual health check should be part of your routine health care. Getting tested regularly is quick and easy and provides valuable peace of mind for you and your partner/s.
If you're new to STI testing or want to know more, see below for answers to our frequently asked questions about testing, symptoms and services available to the UNSW community.
Who needs STI Testing?
STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection) testing is recommended:
- Once a year, if you are sexually active,
- When you change sexual partners, or
- If you have unprotected sex or your condom breaks.
For more information about sexual health, visit our resources page here.
Do I need a test if I don’t have symptoms?
Most STI’s don’t have symptoms, so don’t use the absence of symptoms as a reason not to test. STI's can cause long-term health issues such s infertility if left untreated.
If you do have symptoms such as burning when urinating, unusual discharge or odd smells from your vagina or penis, book an appointment to see a doctor. In the meantime, wear a condom when you have sex.
How much do STI tests cost?
STI testing is free through medicare of your OSHC provider. Sometimes you will need to pay for the test upfront, but you can claim for these through your OSHC provider. At UNSW Health Services, there is no cost to see a doctor.
Where can I test?
STI tests are available through UNSW Health Services, your local GP or sexual health clinic.
You can also contact NSW Sexual Health Infolink to find the closest clinic to you on 1800 451 624.
What type of test do I need?
It depends.
The standard STI test is a urine test, which is as simple as peeing in a jar. If you have symptoms or receive a positive test on a urine sample you may need additional tests.
You may also need different tests depending on what kind of sex you have (oral, vaginal, anal). Being open to your doctor about the type of sex you have and any symptoms helps them to determine what tests are needed.
Learn more about STI tests here
What if I test positive?
Most STI's are easily treated. Getting the right treatment early is the best option. Your doctor will tell you what options there are.
If you test positive for an STI, your sexual partner/s needs to know that they need to get tested. You or your doctor can tell your sexual partner/s. It can also be done anonymously. This is a requirement in Australia as part of contact tracing. This helps stop the spread of STIs.
Other testing options
Anonymous STI testing for men at UNSW
Talking about sex and your sexual partners can be awkward, even when it’s important for your health. Being upfront about who you have sex with and what type of sex you have can be uncomfortable. So, we’ve come up with a solution to avoid those tricky conversations. CASI is a computer kiosk that provides FREE STI (sexually transmitted infections) tests for men.
Prior to testing you will be asked to complete some pre-screening questions to see if you’re eligible. If you meet the criterion, you will be given an anal and oral swab to self-collect and you will need to pee into a jar. You collect these samples, place them in the bag provided and then drop these off into a self-collection box in the bathroom. These tests are then sent to pathology and results are managed by Sydney Sexual Health. The only information CASI will collect from you is your name and your contact details. The information you provide is both private and confidential and is not linked to your academic record in any way.
CASI is located in the men’s toilet outside the health service in the main quadrangle at UNSW Kensington campus. Just follow the yellow steps at the back of the health service to the men’s toilet.
