What is the test?

Certain studies have suggested an increased vulnerability to chlamydia when concurrently infected with gonorrhea. To address this, it is advised to opt for the 2-in-1 STI test, capable of identifying the presence of chlamydia, gonorrhea, or both. This not only streamlines the testing process but also eliminates the need to string separate tests.

Designed for both men and women, the test kit employs a urine sample, which you send in the prepaid envelope to our government-regulated pathology lab. The analysis focuses on genital chlamydia and gonorrhea and does not extend to throat or rectal infections. If you suspect an infection in these areas, it is recommended to contact your local sexual health clinic or GP.

It’s essential to note that the 2-in-1 test exclusively targets chlamydia and gonorrhea, excluding detection of other sexually transmitted infections. Should you suspect any other STI, it is imperative to visit your local sexual health clinic and abstain from sexual activity until a confirmed diagnosis is obtained.

For optimal accuracy, the test yields the most precise results approximately two weeks (14 days) post-unprotected sexual activity. Therefore, it is advisable to wait for this duration before taking the test, as it can take around two weeks for the infection to become detectable in the body.

What is Chlamydia?

Chlamydia stands as the most prevalent sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the UK, particularly affecting individuals aged 16 to 25. The transmission occurs through various forms of unprotected sex, including vaginal, anal, oral intercourse, and the sharing of sex toys. Symptoms encompass vaginal or penile discharge, mild abdominal pain in women, and pain or irritation in the testicles and penis for men.

The challenge with Chlamydia lies in its frequent asymptomatic nature, where many individuals, both men and women, carry the infection unknowingly. This not only facilitates the spread of the disease to more people but also presents the risk of Chlamydia causing additional health complications. In women, it may lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, disrupt proper fallopian tube function, and eventually result in infertility. For men, it can pose similar fertility issues, impacting sperm production and complicating conception.

While the infection is primarily transmitted through sexual intercourse, the underlying cause is a bacterium known as “Chlamydia trachomatis.” This bacterium, once transferred between individuals, can reside in the vagina, penis, and rectum, subsequently being present in semen for men and vaginal fluids for women, thus facilitating transmission during sexual activity.

Despite the fact that acquiring the infection only requires a single exposure, the risk increases with unprotected intercourse with multiple partners. It is advisable to undergo regular testing, either annually or each time engaging in sexual activity with a new partner.

What is Gonorrhoea?

Vitamin D is naturally synthesized by the body through exposure to sunlight, and it is obtainable from certain foods and supplements. Playing a pivotal role in functions ranging from regulating calcium and phosphorus absorption to aiding immune system functionality, vitamin D offers various benefits.

Exploring some of the advantages of vitamin D:

1. Respiratory Infection Protection: Adequate vitamin D levels may act as a defense against respiratory infections. Studies have indicated that individuals deficient in vitamin D experienced a 12 percent decrease in the risk of respiratory infections after incorporating a vitamin D supplement.
2. Seasonal Depression Symptom Improvement: Insufficient vitamin D levels have been linked to a higher risk of seasonal depression, according to research by the National Institute of Mental Health.
3. Disease Prevention: Vitamin D has been associated with a reduced risk of multiple sclerosis, lower chances of heart disease, and a potential role in mitigating autoimmune diseases. Ensuring sufficient vitamin D intake may contribute to disease prevention.
4. Support for Weight Loss: Research suggests that vitamin D may aid in weight loss. In a study where individuals with obesity followed a diet plan along with vitamin D supplements, they exhibited more significant weight and fat mass loss compared to a placebo group following the diet plan alone.

How to take the test

The test kit comes in a completely sterile package and includes a sample collection box, a tube for your sample, a prepaid envelope, a request form, and detailed instructions on how to collect and prepare your urine sample for laboratory submission. The test itself is a straightforward urine test.

It is recommended to use the first-morning urine for the test, specifically the initial portion expelled during your first bathroom visit. Detailed instructions on proper sample collection are provided within the test kit.

After collecting your sample in the provided container, transfer a portion to the designated tube. The tube includes a label where you should fill in your name, date of birth, and the date of sample collection. Ensure that you complete all required information on both the tube and the accompanying ‘request form.’ Failure to provide this information may result in the lab being unable to test your sample and provide results.

Place the sample and the completed request form into the prepaid envelope and send it out promptly. As the postage is prepaid, there is no need for additional payment, and you can deposit your sample in any mailbox. The laboratory typically takes 2-3 working days to analyze your sample upon receiving it.