Medically reviewed by the Medical Director, Cupid Clinics. Last reviewed: October 2026.
Quick answer: A standard STD check usually covers HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B and hepatitis C (blood tests), plus gonorrhoea and chlamydia (urine or swab test). Which tests you need, and when, depends on the type of exposure, any symptoms, and how long ago it happened. A doctor can tailor this so you don’t overpay or test too early.
Many people book “every test” out of worry, or put off testing because they don’t know where to start. Neither helps. Here’s a simple guide to what each test covers and when it becomes accurate.
The core STD tests
| Infection | Test | Sample | Accurate from roughly |
|---|---|---|---|
| HIV | 4th generation or NAT | Blood | 6 weeks (4th gen), earlier with NAT |
| Syphilis | VDRL/RPR with TPHA | Blood | 6 weeks; repeat at 12 weeks if high risk |
| Hepatitis B | HBsAg | Blood | 6 to 12 weeks |
| Hepatitis C | Anti-HCV antibody | Blood | 8 to 12 weeks |
| Gonorrhoea and chlamydia | NAAT (PCR) | Urine or swab | About 2 weeks |
For HIV in more detail, read our guide to the HIV window period.
Tests that depend on your situation
- Herpes (HSV): best diagnosed by swabbing a sore. Blood tests without symptoms are often unhelpful and can confuse more than clarify.
- HPV and genital warts: warts are diagnosed by examination; women are screened for HPV through cervical screening.
- Throat or rectal swabs: recommended after oral or anal sex, because a urine test alone can miss infections there.
When should I get tested?
- Within 72 hours of a high-risk exposure: talk to a doctor about PEP first.
- Symptoms such as discharge, burning, sores or rash: see a doctor now, don’t wait for window periods.
- No symptoms: test at 2 weeks for gonorrhoea and chlamydia, and at 6 weeks for HIV and syphilis. Some tests may need repeating at 3 months.
- Regular check-ups: once a year, or every 3 to 6 months if you have new or multiple partners.
Frequently asked questions
Can one blood test check for all STDs?
No. Blood tests cover HIV, syphilis and hepatitis. Gonorrhoea and chlamydia need urine or swab samples.
Do I need STD tests if I have no symptoms?
Yes. Many STDs, especially chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis, often cause no symptoms but can still be passed on and cause complications.
Is home sample collection available?
Yes, for blood and urine tests in our service areas. Book a test and we’ll guide you.
Will my results be private?
Always. Results are shared only with you, and our doctors explain them without judgement.
Not sure which tests you need?
Take our free sexual health risk assessment, or book a confidential consultation in Bengaluru, Mangaluru or online. Call +91 95912 52505.
