STI Clinics Cork

STI and HIV Testing in Cork

Better2Know are experts in sexual health. Whatever your concerns, we will have the right test or screen to provide you with the peace of mind you need.

We can help you to get tested for 11 different STIs. This includes:

• HIV
• Chlamydia
• Herpes
• Gonorrhoea
• Hepatitis A, B and C 
• Syphilis
• HPV

There are also less well-known infections:

• Mycoplasma
• Ureaplasma
• Gardnerella
• Trichomonas

These infections are very common and can cause discomfort or long-term health issues if not treated.

Can I get my STI test results on the same day in Cork?

Better2Know offers comprehensive instant STI  testing at our Cork sexual health clinic.  We can get you results in around 30 minutes in Cork for:

• HIV
• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhoea
• Syphilis
• Hepatitis B
• Hepatitis C

We will need a small blood sample or a swab to perform your test.

At your chosen clinic, a trained nurse or other clinician will take your test samples. The samples will then be analysed on-site while you wait. The analysis should take around 30 minutes. You will then receive your test results and a signed pathology form.

If you need help booking an instant test, please call the number at the top of this page to speak with one of our trained Sexual Health Advisors.

What happens at my STI test appointment in Cork?

Here is what you can expect during your clinic appointment:

1. Welcom: Arrive at your chosen clinic at the designated time. You will be shown to a private consultation room.
2. Sample collection: One of our trained health professionals will collect your test samples. They will take a blood sample for you and provide you with the tools to self-collect a urine sample. This process should take around 10-15 minutes.
3. Analysus: Once your samples have been taken by your healthcare professional, you can continue with your day. Your samples will be sent to our certified laboratory for analysis. Processing usually takes between one to five working days depedning on the tests you choose.  If you have chosen instant tests then you can wait at the clinic.
4. Getting your results: When your results are ready, they will be uploaded to your Patient Area. You can also be notified of your results via SMS or email.
5. Taking action: If you test positive, Better2Know will connect you with a doctor who will help you access medication and treatment.

If you have any questions about getting tested, call our Cork helpline, which is open 24/7. Our trained Sexual Health Advisors will be able to tell you more about getting tested for sexually transmitted diseases.

What are the symptoms of an STI?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can cause many symptoms. If you have an STI, you might experience:

• Unusual discharge from the genitals
• Sores, warts, or chancres on the genitals
• Itching, burning during urination
• Pain, itching, or irritation around the genitals or rectum
• Pain during intercourse
• Flu-like symptoms, such as fever, nausea, and body aches
• Bleeding between periods in women

However, any sexually transmitted disease can be asymptomatic, meaning it will not produce any symptoms. This makes regular testing crucial to ensure your sexual health and prevent the spread of infections. Early detection and treatment are key to protecting your health.

Use the map above to book your STI test at a Cork clinic near you. If you call the contact telephone number at the top of this page, our Patient Services team can answer any questions and guide you through the testing process.

Which STIs should I test for?

For those uncertain about which infections to test for, we recommend one of Better2Know's STD screens. These screens serve as precautionary measures when specific infection concerns are not identified.

Our STD screens, designed by medical professionals, test for a wide range of infections. Popular options include:

• Platinum Screen: This is the most comprehensive STD screen available in Ireland. It screens for 11 major infections, including HIV, Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Syphilis, Herpes I & II (current infection), Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Mycoplasma, Ureaplasma, Gardnerella, and Trichomonas.
• Comfort Screen: Designed for individuals experiencing genital discomfort, this screen uses a single urine test to detect Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Herpes, Mycoplasma, Ureaplasma, Gardnerella, and Trichomonas.
• Early Detection Screen: This screen is ideal for people concerned about blood-borne STIs. It would be particularly suitable for healthcare workers concerned about needlestick injuries. This screen checks for HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C as early as 10 days after exposure.

Additional tests can be added to any screen for a supplementary fee. For personalised testing options, please consult our trained Sexual Health Advisors via the helpline listed at the top of this page.

Choose a Cork clinic from the map above to book your appointment now. Once you've selected a clinic, browse from our wide range of STI screening options.

Can I get tested for Syphilis in Cork?

You can get tested for Syphilis at one of Better2Know’s conveniently located sexual health clinics in Cork. Our Syphilis blood test detects the antibodies your immune system produces to fight the infection.  If you are concerned about a possible Syphilis infection, you should get tested. Symptoms of an early Syphilis infection can include a rash, chancres, and fever. Left untreated, Syphilis can remain dormant in your system, causing significant damage to major organ systems like the brain, nervous system, skin, eyes, and bones.

If you test positive with Better2Know, we will provide comprehensive care and support by connecting you with a private consultation with a doctor.  Get a Syphilis test today by choosing a Cork STI clinic from the map on this page. Our Patient Services team is available to answer any questions about Syphilis diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

Should I stop having sex if I am worried about STIs?

If you are sexually active and think you have contracted an infection during a recent sexual encounter, stop having sex - especially unprotected sex, such as vaginal sex, anal sex, and oral sex - and focus on getting tested.  If you have an infection, engaging in sexual activity could spread the infection to other people, which would put their health at risk. You may also put yourself at risk of contracting a different infection.

If you do engage in sexual activity in a current or new sexual relationship, be sure to use safe sexual practices, like using a condom or dental dam. Doing this will significantly reduce the likelihood of transmitting any infections and ill health effects.  

Do not leave your sexual health to chance. Find out more about our sexual health screening options by booking an STI test in Cork today by choosing a clinic on the map above.

Book your appointment

Take control of your sexual health today. To book your confidential appointment, please phone our friendly Sexual Health Advisors on the number above, or click Book Now. Our dedicated team is available 24/7 to take your call and arrange your appointment.