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How Soon Can I Get Tested for an STD or STI? Incubation Period for Sexually Transmitted Infections or Diseases.

How Soon Can I Get Tested for STDs After Unprotected Sex? 

The time frame for taking an STD test varies based on the incubation period for the infection and can differ from person to person. Check out the list below to find out the best time to take an STD test for some of the most common sexually transmitted diseases in New Zealand.

CHLAMYDIA

HOW LONG SHOULD I WAIT?

1 - 5 DAYS

Why that time frame?

The average incubation period for Chlamydia is 1 to 5 days. If you get tested before this time has elapsed, it is recommended that you test again to confirm your results once the incubation period has passed.

If i test positive, do I need to get retested after treatment?

Get tested again 2 weeks after treatment to ensure that you are clear of the Chlamydia bacteria.

GONORRHEA

HOW LONG SHOULD I WAIT?

2 - 6 DAYS

Why that time frame?

The average incubation period for Gonorrhea is 2 to 6 days. If you get tested before this time has elapsed, it is recommended that you test again to confirm your results once the incubation period has passed.

If i test positive, do I need to get retested after treatment?

Get tested again 2 weeks after treatment to ensure that you are clear of the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria.

SYPHILIS

HOW LONG SHOULD I WAIT?

3 - 6 WEEKS

Why that time frame?

The average incubation period for Syphilis is 3 to 6 weeks. If you get tested before this time has elapsed, it is recommended that you test again to confirm your results once the incubation period has passed.

If i test positive, do I need to get retested after treatment?

Get tested again 2 weeks after treatment to ensure that you are clear of the Treponema pallidum bacteria.

HEPATITIS B

HOW LONG SHOULD I WAIT?

6 WEEKS

Why that time frame?

The average incubation period for Hepatitis B is 3 to 6 weeks. If you get tested before this time has elapsed, it is recommended that you test again to confirm your results once the incubation period has passed.

If i test positive, do I need to get retested after treatment?

Retesting is not necessary because Hepatitis B remains in your system for life.

HIV

HOW LONG SHOULD I WAIT?

1 - 3 MONTHS

Why that time frame?

The average incubation period for HIV (Antibody) is 25 days to 2 months. If you get tested before this time has elapsed, it is recommended that you test again to confirm your results once the incubation period has passed.

If i test positive, do I need to get retested after treatment?

It is advised to retest to confirm your result. Seek treatment immediately if you test positive for HIV.