References UK clinical guidance from the NHS, the British HIV Association (BHIVA), and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH). Last updated: April 2026.
A&E (accident and emergency) is not usually the right place to go for STI concerns. Most STI symptoms are better managed by sexual health clinics, GPs or home testing kits — and A&E departments often can’t do the specialised testing STIs need. However, there are specific situations where A&E is appropriate and important.
Here’s when to go where.
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When to Go to A&E
A&E is the right place for true emergencies:
- Possible HIV exposure within the last 72 hours — for PEP when sexual health clinics are closed
- Severe pelvic pain — especially with fever, suggesting PID or other serious complications
- Signs of serious infection — high fever, confusion, very unwell
- Severe genital pain or swelling
- Heavy bleeding
- Testicular pain with swelling — could indicate torsion, a surgical emergency
- Sexual assault — A&E or a SARC (sexual assault referral centre)
When to Use Other Services
| Situation | Best Service |
|---|---|
| Routine STI testing | Sexual health clinic, GP, or home test kit |
| Discharge, itching, mild pain | Sexual health clinic or GP |
| Partner tested positive | Sexual health clinic |
| Wanting PrEP | Sexual health clinic |
| Contraception | GP, sexual health clinic, pharmacy |
| Visible warts or lesions | Sexual health clinic or GP |
| Anxiety about possible exposure | Sexual health clinic or home testing |
Why Sexual Health Clinics Are Usually Better
- Specialised testing — including throat and rectal swabs, mycoplasma testing
- Confidential — records are not shared with your GP without consent
- Free and walk-in — no appointment often needed
- Expertise — staff are trained specifically in sexual health
- Treatment on the spot — often the same day
- Partner notification support
PEP at A&E
If you need PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) for HIV and a sexual health clinic isn’t available (nights, weekends, public holidays), A&E is the right place. PEP must start within 72 hours of exposure. Tell the triage nurse you’re there for PEP — they will prioritise appropriately.
Sexual Assault
If you’ve been sexually assaulted, A&E or a SARC (sexual assault referral centre) can provide immediate care including:
- Forensic examination if you want it
- Emergency contraception
- PEP for HIV
- STI prophylaxis and testing
- Support and referrals
The Havens (in London) and SARCs across the UK offer specialist support. Police involvement is not required to access these services.
Out-of-Hours Options
- 111 (NHS non-emergency) — for advice
- GP out-of-hours service
- Walk-in A&E for emergencies
- Online sexual health services (some 24/7)
Read more: PrEP and PEP | When to test for STIs | How to get PrEP
Frequently Asked Questions
Will A&E test me for STIs?
Usually not as a routine. They can do basic tests if clinically needed but won’t run full STI screens. A sexual health clinic is better for testing.
Is A&E confidential for STI matters?
Yes, but records may go to your GP. Sexual health clinics have stricter confidentiality under the NHS (Venereal Diseases) Regulations.
What if I have an STI emergency at night?
For PEP, go to A&E. For serious pain, fever or bleeding, also A&E. For milder concerns, 111 or waiting until clinic hours is usually fine.
Related reading
- Blood Test for Syphilis, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C
- Can You Get an STI From Being Fingered?
- Can You Catch an STI From a Toilet Seat?
- Can You Clear HPV Once You Have It?
- Can You Die From Hepatitis B?
Sources
- NHS — Sexual health conditions
- BASHH — UK clinical guidelines for STI management
- British HIV Association (BHIVA) — HIV treatment guidelines
- Terrence Higgins Trust — sexual health information
- UK Health Security Agency — STI surveillance data
Steve Page is a recognised expert on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and STD treatments, having published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and presented his research at conferences around the world. He has an in-depth understanding of the latest medical research on STDs, and is an advocate for the development of new treatments and protocols to improve the health of those affected. In addition to his research, he has dedicated his career to understanding the causes and symptoms of STDs, as well as how to best treat those impacted.
