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.
Testing for STIs together with a partner — whether a new relationship or a long-term one — is a healthy habit that builds trust and shared responsibility. NHS sexual health clinics welcome couples, and home kits let you order two kits to use together. It normalises testing and removes the awkwardness of “going alone.”
Here’s how couples STI testing works.
Order a discreet home STI test
Why Test Together?
- Builds trust and openness from the start
- Makes testing feel shared rather than suspicious
- Reduces stigma and awkwardness
- Catches any infections in either partner
- Informs decisions about condoms and protection
When Couples Should Test
- At the start of a new relationship before unprotected sex
- When planning pregnancy
- When opening up a previously monogamous relationship
- After any break in the relationship
- Annually as part of routine health care
Options for Couples Testing
| Option | How It Works |
|---|---|
| Visit a clinic together | Book separate appointments at the same time |
| Walk-in together | Attend an NHS clinic without appointment |
| Order two home kits | Test privately at home |
| Private couples package | Some private clinics offer joint packages |
What Gets Tested
- Chlamydia and gonorrhoea (urine or swab)
- HIV (blood)
- Syphilis (blood)
- Hepatitis B (and C if indicated)
- Throat and rectal swabs if relevant
Talking About Results
Agree in advance how you’ll share results. Tips:
- Both of you should get your own results first, then share
- Respect each other’s privacy — both have the right to their own information
- Discuss what you’ll do if either of you tests positive
- Most results are negative, and most positives are treatable
If Results Differ
If one of you tests positive and the other doesn’t:
- Don’t assume infidelity — STIs can persist from before your relationship
- Both should get treated if indicated (the positive partner treated, the negative partner possibly given preventive treatment)
- Talk honestly about feelings and next steps
- Clinic staff can support the conversation
Longer-Term Habits
- Keep testing together annually or as recommended
- Discuss any new partners if your relationship allows
- Support each other’s sexual health
- Normalise the conversation
Read more: STIs and relationships | Asking about testing | Home STI tests
Frequently Asked Questions
Do clinics offer couple appointments?
Yes — you can book separate but simultaneous appointments, or walk in together.
Is it awkward?
Most couples find it easier when done together than alone.
That’s OK. Each of you gets your own results first and decides when to share.
Related reading
- How Accurate Are Rapid HIV Tests?
- Anonymous STI Testing: What It Means
- Are HIV Tests Accurate If You're on PrEP, PEP or ART?
- Are STI Blood Tests Accurate?
- Before You Get Intimate: Why You Should Ask About STI Testing
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.
