How Soon After Exposure Can I Get Tested?

So, you’ve had a spontaneous night of… connection. Maybe (hopefully?) you used protection, maybe you didn’t but now you're wondering: How soon can I get tested for an STI? First of all, good on you for being proactive about your health. We love to see it.

The short answer is: it depends on the infection. Some STIs are detectable on tests sooner than others.

Why Can’t You Get Tested Immediately?

You might be tempted to sprint to the nearest clinic the morning after, but testing too soon could lead to false negatives. Most STIs have an incubation period—the time between exposure and when the infection becomes detectable. Testing before this period ends might not give accurate results.

Waiting is annoying, but it’s important in order to get the best picture of your health. Try to relax and monitor your symptoms while you wait for the end of the window.

A Breakdown of STI Testing Timelines

Here’s a handy guide to how long you should wait before getting tested for specific STIs:

Chlamydia & Gonorrhea

When do they show up on tests?: Typically 5-7 days after exposure but up to 3 weeks.
Retest: 2 weeks later if you tested negative but had or continue to have symptoms.

HIV

If you know that you have been exposed to HIV, it is important to promptly seek in-person care. Post exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can be administered up to 72 hours after exposure and greatly reduces the risk of contracting the virus.

When does it show up on tests?: As early as 15-20 days and up to 3 months after exposure.
Retest: Because of HIV’s longer incubation period, it’s best to test every 3 months while sexually active.
Why? In the process of replicating itself, HIV establishes what are known as “reservoirs” in some cells in the blood, lymph nodes, brain, and intestinal tract. This is why it takes a longer time for HIV to be detectable on tests.

Syphilis

When to test: 3 to 6 weeks after exposure
Retest: After 3 months if the first test was negative but you still have concerns.

Herpes (HSV-1 & HSV-2)

When to test:
- If you have symptoms (sores): Get tested immediately.
- If no symptoms: 4 to 6 weeks after exposure for blood tests
Retest: 12 weeks later if still concerned

HPV (Human Papillomavirus)

When to test:
- During routine Pap smears
- If you have symptoms (warts): get a doctor to complete a physical examination.

There is no standard HPV test for people with penises.

Trichomoniasis

When to test: 5 to 7 days after exposure

This parasite shows up in tests fairly quickly, but some people might need to retest if symptoms persist.

What If You Have Symptoms?

If you experience symptoms like unusual discharge, burning during urination, sores, or itching, don’t wait—get tested as soon as possible. Most STIs can cause serious complications if left untreated.

That being said, if you test negative early on, you may be jumping the gun. Testing regularly is the best way to stay on top (wink) of your sexual health.

The Importance of Regular Testing

Even if you’re symptom-free, routine STI screenings are a great way to stay on top of your health. According to PHAC, many STIs—including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV—often have no symptoms but can still be passed to others.

The CDC recommends annual STI screening for sexually active individuals, especially those under 25 or with multiple partners.
Public Health Ontario suggests getting tested more frequently if you have new or multiple partners.

Testing Options: Where & How to Get Tested

If you’re ready to get tested, you have options:

Walk-in clinics & sexual health centres
Doctor’s office
With Trusti - we offer an at-home test kits for HIV that let you get all checked up right from your couch.

What’s Next If You Test Positive?

First, don’t panic. Many STIs are treatable and manageable. Your healthcare provider will guide you on the next steps, which might include antibiotics (for bacterial infections like chlamydia and syphilis) or antiviral medications (for herpes and HIV).

It’s also important to inform your recent partners so they can get tested too. This helps prevent further spread and ensures everyone gets the care they need.

The Bottom Line

Getting tested for STIs is a responsible and important part of sexual health. While waiting might be frustrating, timing your test correctly ensures accurate results. Whether you’re feeling fine or noticing symptoms, regular screening is always a good idea.

So, if you’re wondering whether to get tested—the answer is yes. Just make sure to time it right!

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