What is the Instant Syphilis testing process?
Better2Know does not need to know your name for your appointment, making the whole process very confidential and anonymous. The Better2Know Instant Syphilis test requires a small drop of blood which can be taken from a finger stick. Your sample will be taken by a qualified clinician during your appointment. Your blood drop will then be put onto a test cassette where the test will run for about 20 minutes. Your clinician will give you your test result whilst you wait. This test is suitable for both men and women, and is perfect for those who do not like needles.
What is Syphilis?
Syphilis is a Sexually Transmitted Infection, which is commonly transmitted through oral, vaginal or anal intercourse or direct contact with an infected person. When symptoms occur, they tend to appear between 10 and 90 days after infection, though many people with Syphilis will go years without showing any symptoms.
There are three stages of Syphilis infection: Primary Syphilis, which is marked by a sore, also known as a Chancre; Secondary Syphilis, including symptoms such as sore throat, rashes, fever and aches; and Latent Syphilis which, if left untreated, can damage internal organs.
Why should I get tested?
Syphilis can cause long term health damage if it is not treated and managed properly. Testing is the only way to be sure of your Syphilis status. People with untreated infections can progress through all three stages of the disease with potentially fatal consequences. Lack of treatment can also result in severe complications for pregnant women, including long term damage and even the death of their baby.
Better2Know can test for Syphilis at clinics across Ireland, with Instant testing services at locations including Dublin, Cork, Galway and many more. The test is also available as part of several screens including the Instant Four, Instant Four (Blood), Instant Peace of Mind, the Instant Six and Instant Eight screens. The individual Instant Syphilis test is suitable just 9 days after potential exposure to the bacteria. A longer period of incubation may be required if you are combining this Instant Syphilis test with other Instant tests.
When will I receive my results?
As the test normally takes around 20 minutes to run, you will receive your results while you wait in the clinic. Upon completion, the clinic can issue you with a signed copy of the Rapid Test Results Report.
What if my test is positive?
Should your test be reactive, we will run a further, confirmatory test at no additional cost to you. This will allow us to ascertain whether this is a current or previous infection. If the test shows that it is a current infection, we will write you a private prescription for the most suitable antibiotics. Better2Know can also help arrange a doctor consultation, either in person or over the phone.
Why should I test with Better2Know?
Better2Know is the leading private provider of sexual health testing services in Ireland. All of our testing is anonymous and confidential. We have clinics throughout Ireland where you can get tested. Our comprehensive range of tests and screens includes Instant Testing for eight of the most common STIs. These tests include:
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhoea
- HIV
- Syphilis
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis C
- Herpes Type 1
- Herpes Type 2
Our CE marked Instant tests and screens use swab and finger prick blood samples to detect any infection. Your results will be available within 30 minutes. When you test with us, you will be supported by Better2Know’s outstanding Medical and Patient Services teams, to bring you total peace of mind.
All of our Instant tests can be tested for individually, or as part of a combination of tests, known as a screen. This popular and efficient service offers you swift and accurate results whilst you wait in the clinic.
How can I make an appointment?
To arrange your Instant Syphilis test, or for more information on our other STI testing services across Ireland, contact us today. You can call our experienced Patient Services team at any time, day or night, on the number above. Alternatively, just click Get Started and begin your journey towards better health.
