Just like a physical health check, a sexual health check should be part of your routine health care. Getting tested regularly is quick and easy and provides valuable peace of mind for you and your partner/s.
If you're new to STI testing or want to know more, see below for answers to our frequently asked questions about testing, symptoms and services available to the UNSW community.
STI Clinic
Book an appointment with one of our doctors. Covers screening, testing and treatment, including HIV.
If the STI clinic is full, book an appointment with one of the doctors instead.
Sexual Health appointment
Do you have a preferred doctor or is the STI clinic full? Book an STI appointment with the doctor of your choice. Appointment covers screening, testing and treatment, including HIV.
What is an STI?
STIs, or sexually transmissable infections, are are infections you can get from sexual activity with someone who is infected.
STIs are sometimes grouped with BBVs or blood-borne viruses, which is usually transmitted when an infected person's blood enters someone else's bloodstream. STIs and BBVs can be spread through oral, vaginal and anal sex.
Common STIs include, gonorrhoea, chlamydia, syphilis, genital warts (HPV) and genital herpes. HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, is a well known BBV.
While STIs and BBVs are treatable, not all are curable.
Who needs STI Testing?
STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection) testing is recommended as part of your normal health routine.
STI testing is recommended for:
- Every 6-12 months, if you are sexually active,
- When you change sexual partners, or
- If you have unprotected sex or your condom breaks
If you are part of the Gay or Bisexual community and have sex with other men, testing is recommended every 3 months.
For more information about sexual health, visit our resources page.
How much do STI tests cost?
STI testing is free through Medicare or your OSHC provider.
Sometimes you will need to pay for the test upfront, but you can claim for these through your OSHC provider. At UNSW Health Service, there is no cost to see a doctor - appointments are bulk billed or can be claimed under your OSHC.
Do I need a test if I don’t have symptoms?
Many STIs don’t have any signs or symptoms, so test regularly to protect yourself and others.
STIs can cause long-term health issues such as infertility if left untreated. If you do have symptoms such as burning when urinating, unusual discharge or odd smells from your vagina or penis, book an appointment to see a doctor.
Where can I test?
STI testing is available through our Health Service, or independently test with MyTest (HIV testing) or the CASI kiosk (Chlamydia and gonorrhoea testing) on campus.
You can also contact your local GP (general practitioner) or a nearby sexual health clinic.
NSW Sexual Health Infolink can help you find the closest clinic to you on 1800 451 624.
What type of test do I need?
There are a range of STI test types available.
The standard STI test is a urine test or swab for Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea, and a blood test to check for HIV and Syphilis.
You may also need different tests depending on what kind of sex you have (oral, vaginal, anal). Being open to your doctor about the type of sex you have and any symptoms helps them to determine what tests are needed.
Learn more about STI tests here.
Where can I get more information?
There are many resources available in NSW.
You can get more specific advice at an appointment with your doctor. Here are other sources that may be helpful.
- PlaySafe, for easy to understand STI, healthy sex and condom information
- NSW Health's International Student Health Hub, including information about sexual health, relationships, consent, navigating the Australian healthcare system and more. Made by international students, for international students
- ACON, NSW's leading community organisation that provides inclusive and supportive resources for the community and much more
- Sexual Health Infolink (1800 451 624), where you can speak to a nurse about HIV, STIs, vaccinations and other advice
What if I test positive?
Most STI's are easily treated. Getting the right treatment early is the best option. Your doctor will tell you what options there are.
If you test positive for an STI, your sexual partner/s need to know that so they can get tested and treatment. You can tell your sexual partner/s or use Let Them Know to anonymously advise them to get tested. This helps stop the spread of STIs.
CASI: STI testing kiosk for men
Get Tested at UNSW with this free, anonymous STI testing kiosk on campus. This checks for gonorrhea and chlamydia.
MyTest - Free HIV self-testing
HIV self-testing is safe, free and private. You can get free HIV self-test kits from the MyTest vending machine at Kensington campus.
Sex and Healthy Relationships
New to dating, intimacy or just looking to learn more about navigating the often complicated world of sex and relationships? View our resources page!