Clinics in Northam

What kind of samples will I need to provide?

Most STI tests and screens offered by Better2Know in Northam require either a blood sample, a urine sample, or a swab sample.  Some screens will require a combination of these.

However, we understand that some people are not comfortable providing intimate swabs. That is why most of our tests and screens only require a blood or urine sample (or both). Swabs only need to be used in certain circumstances when testing for specific infections and are usually self collected.

A trained medical professional will collect blood samples during your appointment. If a urine sample or swab is required, you will be given instructions on how to collect it for your chosen tests.

Call our 24/7 Northam helpline for more information about the testing process.

What will happen if I have an STI?

If you have an STI in Northam please do not worry.  We are here to help you.  We will help you to speak to one of our doctors who will be able to help you with the next steps.  This may be medication to treat your infection or a referral to a specialist service.  We are always here if you have any questions.

You should also let your partners know that you had an STI.  In your secure online patient area, you will be able to email or SMS your partners (with or without your name) to let them know and to encourage them to get tested in Northam or elsewhere in South Africa.

HIV testing in Northam

Both men and women are at risk of HIV in Northam.  If you have had sex with a new male or female partner, then we suggest that you include an HIV test in your screen.  This is because it is important to detect HIV early so that you can begin treatment.  These days, most people with HIV will lead a normal length of life providing they start treatment early and take their medication regularly.

Our advanced blood tests can detect HIV in a small blood sample from just 10 days after any potential infection.  This is the earliest HIV test possible in Northam.  HIV is also included in many of our STI screens.  It is always important to know your HIV status so that you can protect your own health and not pass the infection on.

If you are concerned about having HIV, call our helpline today to speak to our Sexual Health Advisors.  They will be happy to help you to book your HIV test.

Syphilis testing in Northam

Once thought to be fairly rare in modern times, Syphilis infections are on the rise around the world and in Northam. Regular testing for Syphilis in sexually active people will help reduce the spread.

Syphilis can cause serious harm to your health if it is not caught early enough. Identifying the infection can be difficult because Syphilis can often be mistaken for other, less serious infections, meaning most people will not seek medical attention when they have symptoms.

Get your Syphilis test today by scheduling an appointment at one of Better2Know’s Northam sexual health clinics. Call the number listed at the top of this page or begin your booking by choosing a clinic near you on the map provided. 

What is the difference between an STI test and an STI screen?

An STI test looks for one particular infection. An STI screen is a group of different STI tests.  If you want to get tested for Chlamydia, you can have an STI test for Chlamydia or an STI Screen for Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea and Syphilis.  At Better2Know, we call this our Peace of Mind screen. This screen is available in Northam today.

Our STI Screens have been put together by our international team of sexual health experts.  They put together different STI tests and provide excellent value and service.

You can choose what to get tested for in Northam by clicking on select next to your nearest clinic and then choosing the STIs you wish to get tested for.  We will then show you the screens which include these STIs.

Gonorrhoea testing in Northam

Gonorrhoea consistently ranks as one of the most common STIs in Northam. The infection can be transmitted by sexual activity, even without male or female ejaculation. If left untreated, a Gonorrhoea infection can lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, issues with fertility, and, in rare cases, a gonococcal infection that can cause sepsis.

Gonorrhoea is becoming increasingly resistant to antibiotics.  If you do test positive, it is important to test again two weeks after you have finished your medication to ensure that the medication has worked.  We can help you get tested and treated for Gonorrhoea in Northam.

If you think you may have a Gonorrhoea infection, it is always better to know by getting tested. Our friendly Patient Services team can help you book a test at an STI testing clinic near you in Northam.

If I have a sexually transmitted disease, can it be cured?

STDs are very common in Northam, and most are easily cured. Depending on the infection, you may only need a single dose of medication to clear the infection. The treatment you get will depend on the STD you have tested positive for.

There are some STDs that cannot be cured. These can be effectively managed with the right health care and treatment to help you live a long and healthy life.

For more information on STDs and how they are cured, call the phone number listed on this page to speak to one of our knowledgeable and friendly Sexual Health Advisors in Northam.