Which STDs and STIs are included?

The Better2Know Oral Screen tests for:

• Chlamydia in the throat
• Gonorrhoea in the throat
• Chlamydia in the genitals (vagina or penis)
• Gonorrhoea in the genitals (vagina or penis)
• Syphilis
• Herpes 1
• Herpes 2

Who is this test for?

This test is for you if you have given and/ or received oral sex. This means if you have stimulated your partner’s genitals with your throat or have had your genitals stimulated by your partner’s mouth.

This sexual health test will test you for the most common infections passed on through oral sex from the genitals of one person to the mouth of the other.

Is this STI test accurate?

The test is accurate and will look for Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea in your throat (you will need to take a swab) and urine. This will tell us whether these infections are in your throat or genitals.

This test is accurate for Herpes and Syphilis. The Herpes and Syphilis testing is done on a small blood sample which you collect yourself by pricking your finger.

All of our tests are run in our accredited laboratory.

How does the test work?

This is a throat swab, blood, and urine test, and you collect the samples yourself using the kit provided. After you have completed your purchase online, we will post the discreet Oral test pack by An Post to the address provided. The postal pack is plain so no one will know what it is. It does not say Oral test kit on the packaging.

When you open the pack you will find: the instructions, a form, three finger-prick lancets, a small gold-topped tube, a swab, a urine collection pot, wipes, and a pre-paid return envelope. The sample collection instruction leaflet gives you step-by-step instructions on how to collect your samples. You must follow the instructions on the leaflet carefully.

As soon as your results are ready, you will get an email to let you know, but you can also log on and check online whenever you like.

When will my test kit arrive?

If you order your test before 4.00 pm Monday to Friday, we will post it out to you the same day. Test kits should arrive the next working day or the day after.

How long before I get my Oral Screen results?

The results of your tests should usually be ready within two working days from when your samples arrive at the laboratory.

What happens if my STI test is positive?

If you do test positive we are here to help you. If you would like us to, we can make you an appointment with one of our Irish doctors (this can be done remotely) who can write you a prescription for any treatment you need. There will be a small charge for this. Alternatively, you can take the results to your own doctor.

Is testing for STIs through Better2Know confidential?

Yes. Your results and your details are 100% confidential. We will not inform anyone (including your GP) without your permission.

How long should I wait after an encounter before getting the Better2Know Oral Screen?

You should wait at least 14 days since any incident you are concerned about before getting the Better2Know Oral Screen. The Herpes test has a 28-day incubation period, but it is very common and if you are concerned about herpes then regular testing is advisable.