STI test at a sexual health clinic: what to expect
An STI test at a sexual health clinic (or GGD in the Netherlands) is accessible, often free for high-risk groups, and completely anonymous. Here is exactly what to expect — and what to do if results need action.
Anonymous, accessible, and professional — a sexual health clinic offers a safe route for STI testing.
Who can get tested at a sexual health clinic?
High-risk groups (free)
MSM (men who have sex with men), sex workers, people with symptoms that may indicate an STI, and people with a positive partner or notification. When in doubt, call your local clinic.
Other visitors (paid or referral)
Not everyone qualifies for free testing. If you have no specific risk factors, you may still be able to attend with a co-payment or a GP referral, depending on your region.
Anonymous testing
You do not need to give your name. The clinic uses a unique code for your results. Your insurance information is not used.
What happens during a clinic visit?
Book an appointment
Via your local sexual health clinic's website or by phone. In larger cities there are dedicated sexual health clinics; smaller areas may use GP clinics or evening drop-in sessions.
Check in
On arrival, give your reason for the visit (potential exposure or symptoms). No names or partner details are needed for the test itself.
Consultation and samples
A doctor or nurse asks a few questions about timing, symptoms, and risk exposure. Samples are then taken: blood, urine, and/or swabs, depending on which STIs are relevant.
Results
The clinic sends results via a secure link, unique code, or phone call. Typical turnaround: 3–7 working days, sometimes faster for symptomatic cases.
Is the test truly anonymous?
Yes. The clinic registers your test under a unique code, not your name. Your health insurer cannot see it. For partner notification, the clinic offers its own service — a staff member contacts your partner on your behalf, also anonymously.
Positive result: the next step
- Discuss treatment with the clinic doctor directly. Most STIs are highly treatable.
- Notify any partners who may have been exposed — this breaks the chain of transmission.
- Choose the route that works for you: direct contact, clinic-assisted partner notification, or an anonymous message via PrivaNotify.
- Do not wait: the earlier a partner knows, the sooner they can test and get treated.
For accurate, up-to-date information on clinic locations and procedures, refer to the official source.
Find your nearest sexual health clinicExternal source. No partnership or endorsement implied; use as a starting point and follow your clinic's or doctor's guidance.