What is STD testing, and when should you get tested in Europe?

STD testing explained: sexually transmitted infections (STIs), PCR swabs, blood tests, window periods, and clinical assessment.

In this episode, we outline how STD testing works under EU medical guidance and how doctors determine which tests are appropriate based on exposure risk.

You’ll learn:

• The difference between bacterial STIs (chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis) and viral STIs (HIV, herpes, HPV)

• When urine tests, genital swabs, throat swabs, or rectal swabs are required

• What blood tests detect (HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B and C)

• The importance of window periods after exposure

• When routine screening is recommended

• The role of partner notification and retesting

• Situations where treatm ...