How it works

How do you collect samples?

You will be provided with a pathology request form to show the pathology collector. When you place your order, the request form is available from the confirmation page. We recommend that you download and save it to your mobile device to show the pathology collector, or you can take a printed copy if you prefer. You can find a collection centre near you with our postcode finder.

The pathology collector will give you all the instructions that you need to collect urine and self-collected swab samples. If you plan on collecting your urine sample at the collection centre, we recommend that you wait one hour after the last time you urinated before collecting your sample. This gives time for any bacteria to accumulate in your urinary tract and be detected in your test. 

What test methods do we use?

Chlamydia and gonorrhoea are tested using PCR (polymerase chain reaction). This test method detects the presence of the genetic material of bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

Although syphilis is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, we test for the antibody your immune system makes when you are infected.

When we test for any of the STI viruses (hepatitis viruses A, B and C and HIV), our methods detect specific antibodies that your immune system makes when you are infected.

Your results

Negative results

When all of your tests are negative, your SMS will include a link to the pathology report. To open the report you will need to use the 4-digit PIN that is found on the top right-hand corner of your tax invoice.

Positive results

If any of your tests are positive or inconclusive, the SMS you receive will ask you to contact the medical centre that you selected when you placed your order. You will find the details of the medical centre you chose on the tax invoice.

We will send your results to the medical centre – they will contact you to confidentially assist you with organising treatment and follow-up. You can choose to be treated elsewhere if you wish.

In Australia, state health departments have statutory notification. which requires that laboratories report certain cases of infectious diseases, including sexually transmitted infections, to public health departments. The purpose of this is to limit the spread of communicable diseases.

What is post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)?

Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is a course of medication to help prevent HIV infection. If you think you have been exposed to HIV, it is best to start PEP as soon as possible. It is most effective if taken with 24 hours but can be started up to 72 hours after you are exposed. Contact your closest hospital emergency departments, sexual health clinics and specialist doctor for assistance [1].

Click here to learn more about PEP.