Question 1

What should I do if I test positive and have an STI?

Accepted Answer

Please do not worry, we are here to help you. If you test positive for an STI we will help you to arrange any next steps if you wish.

We can arrange doctor consultations in person, by telephone, and by video where your Better2Know doctor can help to get the right medicine for you. This will depend on what you have tested positive for and your medical history including any allergies.

Make sure you follow your healthcare provider's directions on taking medications. Please ensure you finish all of the medicine prescribed, even if you feel better. You should not have sex until the end of your medication, and after your current partner has been tested.

Some infections like HIV, HPV, or Hepatitis will probably be referred to a specialist healthcare provider. They will help you with further testing and look after you.

If you test positive for Gonorrhoea, it is recommended to have what is called a "test of cure" two weeks after you have finished your antibiotics. This is because some Gonorrhoea is resistant to antibiotics and so the only way to know is to get tested again (it is the same test process as your first Gonorrhoea test) to make sure the infection has gone away.

You should also tell all sexual partner(s) who may have been exposed. This includes your current partner. Try to get them to get tested. In your patient area, you will find a way to contact your partners (you can use your name or send it anonymously) to let them know what you have tested positive for. You can see the message before it is sent. This helps to protect their health.

Question 2

Can I get an STI more than once?

Accepted Answer

It is possible to get many STIs more than once and to have more than one STI at a time.

Some people have had Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea multiple times in their lives. As long as each episode is treated, the infection does not come back. It means that you have caught it again.

If you test positive, it is important to get treated and not have sex until the end of your treatment (usually this is 7 days, but your doctor will advise).

If you have a current partner it is important that they also get tested and treated. Otherwise, an untreated partner may reinfect you.

Need help? Contact one of our expert advisors.

Call 031 630 5184

How can we help you?

Need help? Contact one of our expert advisors.

Call 031 630 5184