Kinds of tests
STI/HIV Testing is fairly simple, but we’ve broken down the different types of tests and how they are done:
Swab
Trichamoniasis
Other Swabs
Throat swabs and rectal swabs to test for chlamydia and gonorrhea as needed
Pap Smears
Pap smears available for individuals who are due for a pap according the Manitoba Cervix Check Guidelines
Getting Your Results
Most of the above tests take 2 weeks to get results. A nurse will ONLY contact you if you have tested positive, require further care, or there is another concern with your results.
Treatment
It’s important to remember that many infections we test for are curable or treatable with antibiotics or antivirals. Some medications can come in pill form or may require an injection, but many of the treatments are available onsite and can be prescribed during your visit.
HIV Testing Options
There are various types of HIV testing. A nurse will advise you on the best HIV test for you based on the information you provide them:
- Name-based (Nominal) Testing –A blood sample is sent to the lab using your name.
- Coded (Non-Nominal) Testing – A blood sample is sent to the lab using a code for some anonymity but remains in your permanent medical history.
- Anonymous Testing – A blood sample is sent to the lab using a code that only you have access to. You must return to the clinic with your code in order to get your test results. Your results are not kept permanently or indefinitely; three months after your testing your anonymous chart is destroyed. Your test results are not made part of your regular medical chart.
Where to get Tested
To places in the community where you are able to access testing visit the Street Connections Service Map
Links:
Below are important links to websites with information regarding STI/HIV testing:
CATIE: Canada’s source for HIV and Hepatitis C Information
Sexuality Education and Resource Centre (SERC)
Manitoba Health: Sexually Transmitted and Blood-Borne Infections
U.S. Centre for Disease Control: Sexually Transmitted Diseases