25, Sep, 2025

How Soon After Unprotected Sex Should You Get Tested for STIs?

We’ve all been there, a condom breaks, or passion takes over and protection is forgotten. The first thought that often follows is: “Should I get tested right away?”

The truth is, the timing of an STI test matters. Different infections take different amounts of time to show up on a test. Testing too early may give you false reassurance, while waiting too long may put your health, and your partner’s, at risk.

Here’s a guide to when you should get tested after unprotected sex.

Immediate Action: Within the First Few Days

If you’ve just had unprotected sex, it’s natural to feel anxious. While most STIs can’t be detected immediately, there are still steps you can take:

Emergency contraception: if pregnancy is a concern.
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for HIV: available within 72 hours of potential exposure.
Book a consultation: to discuss risk and arrange follow-up testing.

👉 If you’re concerned about recent exposure, speak to a clinician at STI Clinic today.

When Different STIs Show Up

Chlamydia & Gonorrhoea

Detectable from 2 weeks after exposure.
Testing before this may miss the infection.

HIV

Early detection tests (RNA/NAAT) can detect infection as early as 10 days.
Standard 4th-generation tests (antigen/antibody) are reliable from 28 days.

Syphilis

Usually detected from 3 weeks after exposure, but sometimes requires longer.

Herpes (HSV)

No reliable test without symptoms. If sores develop, they can be swabbed immediately.
Blood tests exist but don’t always show new infections accurately.

Hepatitis B & C

Detectable from 4–6 weeks after exposure with blood tests.

Should You Test More Than Once?

Yes. A single test may not be enough if taken too soon. Many clinicians recommend:

An initial test at 2 weeks (for Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea).
A follow-up at 4–6 weeks (for HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis).
Repeat testing at 3 months if risk was high.

This layered approach gives the most accurate results.

👉 Book a confidential STI screen at STI Clinic for peace of mind.

Why Waiting Too Long Is Risky

Some people avoid testing because they’re scared of the results. But delaying can cause more harm than good:

Untreated infections like Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea can lead to infertility.
Syphilis can cause long-term organ damage if missed.
HIV is far easier to manage when caught early.

Testing doesn’t just protect you, it protects your partner too.

Get Tested Now for Your Peace of Mind

Don’t wait — book your confidential STI test today and ensure your sexual health is protected. Early testing means early care. Book Your Test Now.

The Bottom Line

So, how soon after unprotected sex should you get tested?

Right away: speak to a clinician about risk, emergency options, and planning follow-up tests.
2 weeks onwards: test for Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea.
4 weeks onwards: test for HIV, Syphilis, Hepatitis B & C.
Repeat if needed: especially if symptoms develop.

👉 Don’t wait in worry. Book your confidential STI test today with STI Clinic.