First STI test in Japan: where to go and what to ask

Choose a setting that fits your situation

A clinic can examine symptoms, select specimens and discuss treatment. Public health centres in Japan generally offer free, anonymous HIV testing. Other tests, charges, appointments and result procedures vary by municipality. Home collection may suit some people arranging routine screening, provided the test covers the relevant infection and body site.

Prepare for the visit

Note the approximate dates, types of contact, symptoms and recent antibiotics. Ask which infections and specimen sites are included, when results come back and whether follow-up costs extra. A negative result applies to the test and specimens taken at that time. If symptoms persist, an exposure was recent or a partner tested positive, ask when to seek care or test again.