Other services

As well as providing HIV testing, GUM staff can give you all the information you need on their other also offer the following services:

Screening for Gonorrhoea.
A series of separate swabs are taken from the end of the penis, the bum and from inside the mouth. Swabs can be tickly and uncomfortable but seldom painful.

Rectal Examinations (checking inside and around the bum).
A doctor putting a finger up inside your bum, to check for any lumps or abrasions, usually does this. Again this may be a little uncomfortable but it's a quick process and the doctor will use lubricant.

Testing for hepatitis and syphilis.
Lots of people who have active sex lives go regularly for blood tests for these diseases. There is increasing evidence that Hepatitis C can be sexually transmitted, and cases oral syphilis are rising.

Vaccinations for Hepatitis A and B.
It is a good idea to have these at least every two years. Clinics also carry out treatment for infections such as herpes and for checks for warts on or inside the bum. Other conditions regularly diagnosed and treated at GUM clinics include crab lice, scabies and Non-Specific Urethritis (NSU).

Advice about sexual health.
As well as sexually transmitted infections you can also speak to the staff about any aspect of your sexual health that might be worrying you.

Results of testing for other STIs can be given over the telephone if you provide your GUM name and code number. You may prefer to receive your results in person at the clinic. Any diagnosis or prescribed treatment will be thoroughly explained to you by the trained medical staff. You will also have the option of seeing a GP of your choice if preferred.