Testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
What happens at the GUM clinic?
Both men and women can get tested for all STIs at the GUM. The nurse or doctor at the clinic will take swabs (females) or urine samples (males) to test for most STIs, and blood samples to test for HIV and hepatitis.
We recommend that everyone has regular sexual health screening and if you are not in a monogamous relationship that you use a condom every time you have sex.
If you are in one of the following groups of people, then we recommend that you have regular tests including blood tests and hepatitis B immunisation:
- a man who has sex with men
- an IV drug user
- a commercial sex worker
- a partner of any of the above
When are the GUM clinic times and where is it located?
The GUM clinic is a walk-in service. Its opening times are:
- Tuesday 5pm (men)
- Wednesday 5pm (women)
- Thursday 5pm (men and women)
The GUM clinic is based in the General Hospital, in the outpatient’s department.
Sometimes when the demand is high we are unable to see everyone. If the clinic is full you may be asked to return later.
What can I expect from an appointment at the GUM clinic?
You will be seen by a doctor or specialist nurse who will ask you about your medical and sexual history.
Examination and tests are also performed for infections which are spread through sexual contact or affect the genital area such as:
- bacterial vaginosis (BV)
- candida (thrush)
- chlamydia
- cervicitis (inflammation of the neck of the womb)
- gonorrhoea
- herpes (cold sore virus)
- hepatitis
- HIV
- non-specific urethritis (NSU)
- syphilis
- trichomonas vaginalis (TV)
- warts
The specimens are sent to the laboratory with your unique GUM number. You will receive some feedback immediately following your consultation and the rest of the results will be available 1 week later.
Is it a confidential service?
This service is confidential. We will not share any information about you with anyone else without your permission.
Download GUM Clinic leaflet