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 comprehensive STI test that includes chlamydia, gonorrhoea and herpes covers three common sexual health concerns. Chlamydia and gonorrhoea are tested by urine or swab, while herpes is best tested by swabbing an active lesion. Combined panels at sexual health clinics or via home kits make it easier to check multiple infections at once.
Here’s what to expect.
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What Each Test Looks For
| STI | Sample | Method |
|---|---|---|
| Chlamydia | Urine or vaginal/throat/rectal swab | NAAT |
| Gonorrhoea | Urine or vaginal/throat/rectal swab | NAAT |
| Herpes (active lesion) | Swab from blister or ulcer | PCR |
| Herpes (no lesion) | Blood antibody test | Antibody assay |
Why Test for All Three?
- Chlamydia and gonorrhoea are the two most commonly diagnosed bacterial STIs
- Herpes is widespread and often silent
- All three need different treatments
- Comprehensive testing catches more infections
Important Note About Herpes Testing
Herpes testing is most accurate when done on an active lesion. If you have no symptoms, antibody testing is less useful and can give confusing results. Most UK clinicians don’t recommend routine herpes blood antibody testing.
What a Comprehensive Panel Usually Includes
A typical comprehensive STI panel covers:
- Chlamydia and gonorrhoea (urine or swab)
- HIV (blood)
- Syphilis (blood)
- Hepatitis B (and C if relevant)
- Trichomoniasis if symptoms or risk factors
- Herpes if active lesions present
Where to Get Tested
- NHS sexual health clinic — free
- Home test kits with multiple infections covered
- Private clinics for tailored panels
- GP surgery for basic tests
What Results Mean
All negative
No infections detected. Continue routine screening.
Chlamydia or gonorrhoea positive
Treatment with antibiotics. Partners should be tested and treated.
Herpes positive
Treatment available; discuss management with your clinician.
Treatment Summary
- Chlamydia — doxycycline 7 days
- Gonorrhoea — ceftriaxone injection
- Herpes — antiviral (aciclovir)
Follow-Up
- Avoid sex until treatment is complete
- Notify recent partners
- Test of cure for some infections (gonorrhoea pharyngeal, chlamydia in pregnancy)
- Retest 3 months later to catch reinfection
Read more: Home chlamydia and gonorrhoea tests | Herpes early detection | Single STI tests
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I test for all three at home?
Chlamydia and gonorrhoea, yes. Herpes home testing is more limited.
Should I get a herpes blood test?
UK guidelines don’t recommend routine antibody testing for asymptomatic people.
How soon can I test after exposure?
Chlamydia and gonorrhoea from 1-2 weeks. Herpes once symptoms appear.
Related reading
- Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea Lab Test
- Home Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea Tests: How They Work
- Rectal Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea Test
- STI Throat Swab for Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia
- Multi-Site STI Testing: Genital, Rectal and Throat
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.
