Syphilis, Hepatitis B & C And HIV Home Test

What does this test for?

This kit allows you to get tested for Syphilis, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV from the comfort of your own home.

How to use the test kit

When your test kit arrives, open it carefully and take the time to read over the instructions carefully. Fill out the accompanying labels and attach them to the containers provided. Wash and dry your hands before beginning, sanitising the middle and ring fingers on your less dominant hand. Unscrew the cap to release a lancet, holding it against the rounded tip of your finger. Press against it where it will activate and pierce the skin. After this, wipe away the first drop of blood that appears and hold your finger above the collection container. Massage the finger to release drops of blood into the container, filling it up to the specified line. Cover up the exposed skin with a plaster and then screw the lid firmly onto the container before placing it securely into the return packaging. 

How does the test work?

The test works by examining your blood samples in our lab to find out whether or not the viruses are present. We will then contact you in confidence to let you know the results. 

How reliable is the test kit?

The test kit uses the same testing process and technology as the NHS so it's as reliable as it can be. When your test kit arrives, check it over to make sure it hasn't been damaged during the delivery process. If this happens, let us know and we will send you a fresh kit free of charge. In addition, make sure that your blood sample is taken as instructed and the contents do not become compromised.

How do you catch STIs?

STIs can be passed on during unprotected sexual contact. Some are easier to catch than others. For example, genital warts and herpes can be passed on during contact with the genitals and many infections are passed on through sexual fluids. This includes oral, anal and vaginal sex. Mothers can also pass on infections to their baby through breastfeeding. 

Symptoms of Syphilis

The symptoms of syphilis show up in stages. A small, painless sore will appear after 10 days to 3 months of being infected. This will disappear after 2-6 weeks. The second stage of syphilis may show the following symptoms: 

• A non-itchy rash, most commonly affecting the palms of the hands or soles of the feet
• Headaches 
• Feeling tired 
• Swelling in the lymph glands 
• Fever-like symptoms 
• Joint pain
• Weight loss 
• Hair loss 

If the infection is not treated it can lead to more serious health problems later down the line. You may not show any initial symptoms so it can be difficult to know if you have it or not. Getting tested is recommended if you have had sexual contact with a new, or multiple partners.

Symptoms of Hepatitis B & C

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. Often Hepatitis B is naturally fought off by the body but this may not happen for some people. Many people do not know they have a hepatitis infection as it doesn't usually produce symptoms. Possible symptoms may include: 

• Mild fever
• Tiredness
• Abdominal discomfort 
• Lack of appetite 
• Jaundiced skin and eyes 

Symptoms of HIV

HIV does not produce any obvious symptoms so it's possible to have it for a long time without knowing. The infection attacks the body's immune system, making it difficult to fight off infections. Being susceptible to illness and having a hard time recovering from other infections can be a sign of HIV. Getting tested is the only way to find out if you have it or not. 

Who should take this test?

Anyone who has engaged in unprotected sex with a new partner can take this test. It should be taken if you suspect you may have come into contact with syphilis, Hepatitis or HIV. 

How will I find out my results?

Once your sample arrives at our lab, it will be examined for signs of the syphilis, hepatitis B & C and HIV infections. You will receive a text message with your results within one day of your test arriving in our lab. If you didn't provide a phone number then your results will be emailed out to you. 

How to avoid STIs

Using condoms during sex is the only way to avoid STIs from spreading. It's recommended to use condoms with every new partner, unless you are in a committed partnership where you are sure of each other's sexual health. This includes using condoms during oral and anal sex. 

Is this test suitable for men who have sex with men?

This test is suitable for men who have sex with men as it will detect infections which could have been passed on during oral or anal sex.  

Is the test confidential?

The test is confidential and the details will not be shared with anyone. 

What should I do if I get a positive result?

If your test comes back positive, then we will prescribe you with the appropriate treatment for the infection. You will need to inform any current sexual partners as they will also need to get tested and treated. You should also contact past partners to let them know that you have a sexually transmitted infection so they can get tested too.

Will anyone be able to tell what’s inside the package?

Your test kit will arrive in plain, discreet packaging. Nobody will be able to tell what is inside the package.

Is the test the same for men and women?

This test can be used for both men and women. 

Sources

• Sexual Health Scotland > STIs