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.
Combined HIV and syphilis testing using a finger-prick blood sample is a convenient way to screen for two important STIs at once. The sample is collected at home or at a clinic and sent to a lab for processing. Both HIV and syphilis are blood-borne infections that can be silent for years, so combined testing is an efficient way to check your status.
Here’s what to know.
Order a discreet home STI test
How the Test Works
- Collect a finger-prick blood sample using the kit provided
- Place drops in the collection tube or onto the test card
- Post the sample to the lab
- Lab processes both HIV and syphilis tests
- Results delivered by text, email or secure portal
What’s Tested
| Test | What It Detects |
|---|---|
| HIV (4th-generation) | HIV antibodies and p24 antigen |
| Syphilis | Treponemal antibodies |
When to Test
- After a new sexual partner
- If a partner has tested positive
- As part of routine annual screening
- If you have symptoms
- Before pregnancy
- Starting or continuing PrEP
Window Periods
- HIV (4th-gen) — reliable from 4 weeks post-exposure
- Syphilis — reliable from 3-12 weeks post-exposure
For complete reassurance after a possible exposure, retesting at 3 months is sometimes recommended.
How Accurate Is Finger-Prick Testing?
Finger-prick blood tests processed by accredited labs are highly accurate — comparable to venous blood samples for both HIV and syphilis. Sample collection technique matters, so follow instructions carefully.
Where to Get Tested
- NHS sexual health clinics — free
- Free postal kits in many areas
- Private services for paid options
- Some pop-up community testing events
What Happens If Positive
- Reactive results need confirmation testing
- The clinic or service will contact you with next steps
- Treatment is available and effective for both
- HIV: lifelong antiretroviral therapy
- Syphilis: penicillin injection (curable)
Confidentiality
NHS and reputable private services protect your privacy:
- Records kept separate from GP records (NHS sexual health)
- Results delivered privately
- Not shared without consent
Read more: Home HIV testing | What is syphilis? | Blood test accuracy
Frequently Asked Questions
Are finger-prick tests as accurate as clinic tests?
Yes, when processed by accredited labs.
How long do results take?
Usually a few days after the lab receives your sample.
Is the test free?
Yes through NHS services in many areas.
Related reading
- Blood Test for Syphilis, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C
- Lab Test for Syphilis and Herpes
- Multi-Site STI Testing: Genital, Rectal and Throat
- Can You Have Chlamydia and Test Negative?
- Can You Test for STIs While on Your Period?
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.
