STI screening

In France, 36 000 to 40 000 people unaware they are infected with the AIDS virus. It is therefore important to detect STIs in order to heal and do not infect others.
When to test?
When there was risk behavior, that is to say sexual intercourse without a condom with a new partner or partners, it is always advisable to do a test.

However, do not rush because contamination can take up to six weeks before being detected. It is best to consult a doctor to explain the situation and identify with him when he will perform testing.

How does one test?
Some STIs such as HIV, hepatitis and syphilis, a simple blood test is sufficient to perform the tests. But for others, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea or herpes, it is necessary to make a local collection. It will be a urethral swab for men and vagina for women.

For HIV testing, combined ELISA is performed. This biological screening method research in the blood of HIV antibodies and p24 antigen (virus particles) detected earlier than antibodies. If the test is negative and the person does not take any risks in the past six weeks, then it is HIV negative, that is to say, not contaminated.

However, when the ELISA test is positive, a second test called a Western blot is performed. This test will determine if the virus is actually present or if it is a false positive. If this test is positive, then the person is HIV positive, that is to say HIV.

If the ELISA test is positive but the Western Blot is negative, the screening will be renewed after some time of waiting to be sure not to miss the contamination.

Where to get tested?
The tests can be prescribed by a doctor after consultation and analysis performed in a laboratory or by a liberal nurse.

There are also in each department Testing Centers free and anonymous (CDAG) that can perform certain tests, including hepatitis and HIV and some other STIs. The results are collected on site and in person to ensure anonymity.

The Information Centre, Screening and Diagnosis of Sexually Transmitted Infections (CIDDIST) are free and anonymous. They offer a confidential interview with a doctor and, after consultation, the necessary tests are prescribed and possible treatment can be delivered for free.