What is a bloodborne STI test?
A bloodborne STI test checks for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) found in the blood.
STIs that can be tested for include:
- hepatitis B and C
- syphilis
- HIV
These infections can be spread when there is an exchange of blood or body fluids. You may be at risk of exposure if you come in contact with an infected person through unprotected sex, sharing needles, or direct contact with open lesions or sores.
Depending on the infection, it can take days to weeks for the STI to be found in a test. If you think you have been exposed, you may need to wait a while before testing to be sure. In the case of syphilis and HIV, you will need to test again at a later date. This will reduce the risk of getting a false negative result.
Hepatitis Testing
Hepatitis is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis B and C can result in long term infections. Both hepatitis B and C can take up to 3 months after exposure to be found using a blood test. Testing earlier may not provide accurate results so you will need to test again later to be sure.
Syphilis Testing
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Early detection and treatment are needed to stop syphilis from spreading to other parts of the body and causing serious illness. There are often no symptoms in the early stage, which can make syphilis go unnoticed for a long time. If you do test negative, you should also have a retest after 3 months, because it can take this long for the infection to test positive.
HIV Testing
HIV can be tested with a simple blood or saliva (spit) test. The test can be taken 45 days after exposure, but another blood test should be taken 3 months later to confirm. HIV is a viral condition that causes the immune system to weaken. If left untreated, it can turn into Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS).
Back to top