TEST & TREAT

What is in this TEST & TREAT pack?

In your TEST & TREAT pack, you should have:

1. An instruction leaflet
2. A urine OR vulvo-vaginal swab sampling kit for chlamydia & gonorrhoea testing
3. An HIV & syphilis blood sampling kit
4. A test request form
5. Your antibiotics called Azithromycin or Doxycycline
6. Condoms

Where should I start?

Before you begin using your pack, get yourself a glass of water (you'll need this to take your antibiotics) and find a comfortable place where you can take your time to look at the pack and read the instructions carefully.
Lay all the items out on a flat surface, so you know where they are. Please check that all the items listed above are in your pack. If you are missing any items or if you would like any extra support, please contact the clinic.

How long does it take to use the pack?

Using this TEST & TREAT pack and taking your own sample is a simple and easy process. It takes most people 5-10 minutes.

When should I collect my samples?

You'll need to collect your samples and return them as soon as possible after receiving your TEST & TREAT pack.

Which samples should I return?

We recommend that you collect all the samples in the pack, to have a full check for STIs, especially if you've never had an HIV test before. However, if you really don't want to take the blood sample then you don't have to. But it is still very important that you complete the other samples to test for chlamydia and gonorrhoea, and return these in the prepaid envelope.

When will I get my results?

You should receive your results within 3-5 days of returning your pack.

What are the signs & symptoms of chlamydia?

Women may experience:

• Bleeding between periods and/or heavier periods (including women who are using hormonal contraception)
• Bleeding after sex
• Pain and/or bleeding when you have sex
• Lower abdominal pain (pelvic pain)
• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Pain when passing urine

• A white/cloudy or watery discharge from the tip of the penis
• Pain when passing urine
• Pain in the testicles

I don't have symptoms, why should I do a test for chlamydia?

Even if you are not experiencing any symptoms it's still very important that you use the pack & post your samples back. This is because some people have chlamydia yet don't experience any symptoms. This means that they can pass it on, without even knowing it.

Why am I being offered gonorrhoea, HIV & syphilis tests too?

We have included an HIV/syphilis test kit in your TEST & TREAT pack because we don't want you to miss out on the wider range of services that you would be offered if you did visit a sexual health clinic. We will also test your urine or vulvo-vaginal swab sample for gonorrhoea. Even if you're not experiencing symptoms it's still very important to use the pack and post your samples back. This is because some people have STIs, and can pass them on, without even knowing it.

What causes chlamydia?

It's caused by bacteria (tiny, living cells) called Chlamydia trachomatis found in the uterus (womb), vagina and cervix (entrance to the womb), the urethra (tube where urine comes out), the rectum (back passage), and sometimes the throat and eyes.
Anyone who's sexually active can get it and pass it on. You don't need to have lots of sexual partners.

How is chlamydia passed on?

Chlamydia is usually passed from one person to another through sexual contact. You can get the infection if you come into contact with the semen (cum or pre-cum) or vaginal fluids of someone who has chlamydia. Chlamydia is most commonly spread through:

• Unprotected (without a condom) vaginal or anal sex
• Sharing sex toys that aren't washed or covered with a new condom each time they're used
• Giving or receiving oral sex (going down, giving head) with someone who has chlamydia

How can I protect myself from chlamydia & other STIs?

• Use condoms (male or female) every time you have vaginal, oral or anal sex
• Use a latex or polyurethane (soft plastic) square to cover the female genitals or male or female anus during oral or vulva-vulva sex
• Avoid sharing sex toys. If you do share them, wash them or cover them with a new condom before anyone else uses them

Where can I get more information about chlamydia & other STIs?

Please visit sexwise.fpa.org.uk for more information.