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.
How often you should get tested for STIs depends on your sexual activity, number of partners and risk factors. For most people, at least annual testing makes sense if they’re sexually active. Some groups benefit from more frequent testing — every 3 months is common for higher-risk populations. Here’s a clear guide.
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Testing Frequency by Risk Level
| Situation | Suggested Frequency |
|---|---|
| Sexually active, under 25 | At least yearly (chlamydia screening) |
| New partner | After each new partner |
| Multiple partners | Every 3-6 months |
| MSM at higher risk | Every 3 months |
| On PrEP | Every 3 months (part of PrEP follow-up) |
| Low-risk monogamous | Yearly or as clinically indicated |
| Not currently sexually active | Not routinely needed |
When to Test More Often
- After any new sexual partner
- If a partner tests positive
- After unprotected sex with someone of unknown status
- If you develop symptoms
- If you’re planning pregnancy
- After any sexual assault
Testing During Pregnancy
Pregnant women are routinely screened for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B and sometimes chlamydia during antenatal care. Additional testing can be requested if needed.
What a Full Screen Covers
- Chlamydia and gonorrhoea (urine or swab)
- HIV (blood)
- Syphilis (blood)
- Hepatitis B (blood)
- Hepatitis C if at risk
- Throat and rectal swabs if relevant
- Trichomoniasis if indicated
Where to Test
- NHS sexual health clinics — free, confidential
- Home test kits — free or paid, by post
- GP surgery — for basic tests
- Private clinics — paid, faster results
Why Regular Testing Matters
- Most STIs are silent — symptoms alone are unreliable
- Early detection means simpler treatment
- Prevents spread to partners
- Catches problems before complications develop
- Peace of mind for you and your partners
Testing Milestones
Good times to test include:
- Start of a new relationship
- End of a long-term relationship
- After a break-up or change in sexual activity
- Annual health check-up
- Before planning pregnancy
- When on PrEP follow-up
Read more: When to test after exposure | Home STI tests | Silent STIs
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I test every month?
Usually not needed unless you’re in a specific high-frequency risk scenario. Every 3 months is the highest routine frequency.
Do I need to test if I always use condoms?
Yes — regular testing catches breakthrough infections and STIs that condoms don’t fully cover.
Is annual testing enough?
For low-risk sexually active adults, yes. Higher-risk groups benefit from more frequent testing.
Related reading
- Blood Test for Syphilis, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C
- Can You Have Chlamydia and Test Negative?
- Can You Test for STIs While on Your Period?
- Hepatitis B Core Antibody Test Explained
- Hepatitis B Test Kits: What to Know
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.
