Clinics in Portarlington

What is the difference between and STD and an STI?

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are ultimately the same thing. The term STI has become more commonly used, as the word infection is not as daunting as the word disease. By using the word infection in place of the word disease, people are encouraged to get tested more regularly and to not be afraid of the result.

If you develop symptoms such as itching, soreness when urinating or blisters on the genital area, these are good indicators that you have an STI. Ignoring these symptoms can increase your chances of further serious health complications.

That is why regular testing in Portarlington is imperative especially after a new sexual encounter. Better2Know’s wide range of sexual health testing in Portarlington will provide you with the information you need, whether you have an STI, STD or even nothing!

FAST STI Test results in Portarlington

Better2Know brings you the fastest STI test result turnaround times in Portarlington. Our accredited partner laboratory in Portarlington will begin analysing your samples on the same day that they arrive.

Results times in Portarlington are between 1-4 days depending on the test you choose.  As soon as your results are ready they will be reviewed by a doctor and then sent straight through to your private patient area on our secure website.

What happens at my Sexual Health test in Portarlington?

When you arrive at your local Better2Know sexual health clinic in Portarlington, you will be greeted by one of our friendly and highly trained doctors or nurses. They will take you through to a private and discreet consultation room, where they will guide you through the testing process.

There they will take your sample and answer any questions you might have. You can carry on with your day as soon as your sample is collected.  You can expect your results in a matter of days. With no lengthy waiting periods your nearest Portarlington STI clinic ensures ease, speed, and accuracy when it comes to sexual health testing.

Chlamydia Testing in Portarlington

Chlamydia is one of the most common STIs in Portarlington.  It is easily passed on from one partner to another during sex.  If left untreated it can cause long term health problems and may lead to infertility and other health issues.

You can catch Chlamydia in your genital area, throat (if you gave oral sex) or your rectum (if you received anal sex).  You will need to test each area that might have Chlamydia.

A simple urine sample will test for Chlamydia in your genital area. Your Chlamydia test result will be available in Portarlington in just a few days. If you do test positive, we will help you to access the treatment you need to get better.

Chlamydia often does not have any symptoms. The only way to know if you are infected is to get tested in your nearest clinic in Portarlington.

What are the symptoms of STIs?

Many STIs do not present symptoms in the early and sometimes even later stages of infection. Symptoms will also often vary between infection and person. Regular testing in Portarlington with your local Better2Know clinic is the only way to keep yourself and your partners safe from STIs.

Some signs of an STI infection are:

• pain when urinating or during sex

• lumps or lesions on the genital area

• unusual discharge

• pain in the lower back and kidney area

• flu-like symptoms

• swelling of the penis and/or testicles

• sore throat

• body rashes

If you have one or any of these symptoms, you should test right away. You can book your appointment quickly and easily with Better2Know at one of our many clinics in Portarlington. With our flexible and available booking options you can get your test and results within just a few days.

Call your Better2Know STI test centre in Portarlington today using the number above. Book your STI test now and start your journey to a better understanding of your body and better management of your sexual health.

How often should I get tested for an STI?

You should get tested for an STI every time you have an encounter with a new sexual partner. It can be easy to let life in Portarlington take over and not prioritise your sexual health but protecting and maintaining your overall health as well as your sexual health will lead to a better understanding of yourself going forward.

Testing often in Portarlington is easy with your local Better2Know testing centre. With flexible appointment times we can fit into your schedule with ease.

What should I do if I have an STI?

Do not worry if you have tested positive for an STI in Portarlington. Better2Know’s team of sexual health advisors and doctors are on hand to support and guide you through the next steps.

First, you should stop all sexual activity and inform any recent sexual partners of your result. You can do this anonymously with Better2Know’s partner notification system available in your secure patient area.

Your local team of advisors in Portarlington will then be able to help you organise your onward treatment and further testing if necessary. If you would prefer, your advisors can help you speak to other medical professionals in Portarlington to give you the peace of mind you require.

Better2Know will support you throughout your entire sexual health journey in Portarlington.