Getting tested is the smart move. Here's how.
No shame. No judgment. Just straightforward information about sexual health and testing in Ireland.
Find Your Nearest ClinicWill have an STI at some point in their life. You're not alone.
You could have an infection and feel completely fine. Testing is the only way to know.
Most STIs are easily treated. Getting tested early prevents serious complications.
A simple test can give you peace of mind and protect your health.
Guide Clinic Dublin (Baggot Street)
Free, confidential STI testing and sexual health services
Phone: 01 661 0326
SHCPP Cork
Free STI testing and contraception services
Phone: 021 492 5000
Any general practitioner can arrange STI testing
May be free under medical card, or nominal cost otherwise
Mail-order STI kits available through private providers
Test at home, post sample, get results online (€30–€80)
You'll be asked basic questions about your sexual health and any symptoms.
A nurse or doctor will discuss your concerns in a private, confidential setting.
Testing is simple: usually a urine sample, swab, or blood test. It takes minutes and causes no pain.
You'll get results in days or weeks, depending on the test. Most clinics offer confidential follow-up.
If an STI is detected, treatment is usually simple antibiotics or antivirals. Easy. Done.
Symptoms: Often none; discharge, pain when urinating.
Treatment: Antibiotics (simple course).
Importance: If untreated, can cause infertility.
Symptoms: Often none; discharge, pain when urinating.
Treatment: Antibiotics.
Importance: Can cause serious complications if untreated.
Symptoms: May feel like flu initially; many have no symptoms.
Treatment: Antiretroviral therapy (long-term management).
Importance: Early diagnosis allows effective treatment and normal lifespan.
Symptoms: Can start with a painless sore; rash later.
Treatment: Antibiotics (usually penicillin).
Importance: Easily treated if caught early; serious if ignored.
Symptoms: Usually none; may cause warts.
Treatment: Often clears on its own; vaccines available.
Importance: Some types linked to cancer; screening available.
Symptoms: Painful blisters/sores, itching, flu-like symptoms.
Treatment: Antivirals manage symptoms and reduce outbreaks.
Importance: Manageable; disclose to partners, use protection.
| Service | Cost | Speed | Confidentiality | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Sexual Health Clinics (Free) | Free | Results in 1–2 weeks | Fully confidential | Comprehensive, free testing |
| GP (Medical Card Holders) | Free | Varies | Private | Those with medical cards |
| GP (Non-Card) | €40–€80 | Varies | Private | Preference for GP care |
| Online Private Testing | €30–€150 | Results in 3–5 days | Confidential | Home convenience, faster results |
Yes. Public sexual health clinics like Guide Clinic (Dublin), Cork Sexual Health Services, and similar services throughout Ireland offer free STI testing to all residents. No medical card required.
Public clinics typically provide results within 1–2 weeks. Online testing services often provide results within 3–5 days. Some rapid tests give results on the same day.
Absolutely. All STI testing is confidential. Healthcare professionals are bound by privacy laws (GDPR). Your information is kept private and won't be shared without your consent.
A positive result is not the end of the world. Most STIs are easily treatable. You'll be offered treatment and support. Partner notification services are available if you need help telling partners.
Yes, and you should. Many STIs have no symptoms. Regular testing is recommended if you're sexually active, especially with new partners or without barrier protection.
If you're sexually active with multiple partners or without consistent protection, annual testing is recommended. Chat with your healthcare provider about what's right for you.