STI Testing in Cork

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are an increasing cause of ill health.  STIs can cause concerning symptoms and discomfort, and up to 85% of infections are symptomless, which can still result in long-term health problems such as infertility, ectopic pregnancies, and genital cancers. If you are sexually active, getting tested regularly is a good idea.

For example, Chlamydia is the most common STI in Ireland, however, 80% of women and over 50% of men have no symptoms so the only way to know if you have it is to get tested. Early detection is crucial in reducing any long-term consequences that may have a considerably damaging effect on your health.

• Pain when urinating

• Pain during sexual intercourse

• Rash/itching on the genitals and/or anus

• Change in colour of the male or female discharge

• Discharge from the penis or vagina

• Strong vaginal odour

• Unusual lumps around the genital/anal area

• Painful erections

Instant STI tests are a helpful diagnostic tool used to quickly identify an active infection by taking a swab or a finger prick blood sample.

Our instant STI tests are EU approved and CE marked, and your analysis, results and treatment plan can be provided on the same day.

For your peace of mind, all same-day instant tests are backed up with additional laboratory analysis and confirmation (except herpes and trichomonas).

1. On arrival: a healthcare worker will confirm your details and the tests that will be performed.

2. During the test: in most cases the patient will be able to swab themselves and the nurse will take a pin prick blood test or full blood draw. Your test samples will be safely sealed and labelled for analysis.

3. After the test: your samples will be analysed individually and back up analysis will be sent to the laboratory. When your results are available, we will contact you and provide you with any follow up treatment plan required.

Note: Don’t urinate for 2 hours before your appointment.

Our *Express STI screenings provide you with results, and if necessary, a treatment plan on the same day.

Our Routine STI screenings provide you with results typically within 3-5 working days (except herpes and trichomonas).

*For your peace of mind, a second analysis is sent to the laboratory for confirmation of your results and is provided to you within 5-10 working days (except herpes and trichomonas where only instant testing takes place). STI screenings may include the potential for false positives or false negative results. Always consider the circumstances of your test and consider if further retesting may be appropriate to you.

STI Screening Cork does not accept responsibility and cannot guarantee swab turnaround times as there may be unforeseen delays in the lab outside of our control.

Sexually transmitted infections can take some time to become detectable, so it is best practice to get tested after 3 weeks and 3 months to ensure that you are clear (syphilis and hepatitis B/C may take time to be detectable).

If you are sexually active and changing partners, regular testing is advised.

You should also get tested if a previous partner has informed you that they tested positive, even if it’s been several years since your sexual relationship ended, as some STIs can remain dormant for years.

Fees include the initial nurse consultation, testing and analysis, follow up laboratory analysis results report, and if necessary, a prescription and treatment plan from the doctor.

You can change or cancel your booking via the confirmation email you received upon booking your appointment.

1. If you cancel your appointment with more than 12 hours’ notice, your €30 deposit will be credited toward a future booking within six months.

2. Cancellations made within 12 hours will be fully charged at €65 or the total cost of the booked service.

The non-refundable payment covers expenses such as patient file preparation, staff time and other online service costs associated with your booking.

Refunds are processed by our accounts team every Friday. Depending on your bank, it may take up to 10 working days to reflect in your account. If you haven’t received your refund within this timeframe, please contact us.