When to take an STI test after possible exposure

Separate symptoms from test timing

The time between exposure and symptoms differs from the time a test needs to detect an infection. A test taken too early can be negative even when infection is present. Timing depends on the infection, the specimen and the method. Ask the clinic which method it uses and when a repeat test would be useful.

Plan for recent exposure

Write down the date of the most recent possible exposure, especially if there were several. If you have symptoms, are pregnant or know a partner was diagnosed, contact a clinic promptly. If HIV exposure may have occurred within 72 hours, seek immediate medical assessment for PEP. A screening or mail-in kit should never delay that assessment.