Do I have to wait a certain amount of time after a potential risk contact before I get tested for sexually transmitted diseases?
Yes, it is important to consider the so-called diagnostic window before getting tested.
The "window period" refers to the time between an infection and the point at which the body has produced enough antibodies to be detected in a laboratory test. This period should be observed after a potentially risky contact to reliably rule out an infection.
The diagnostic window aries depending on the infection:
- Chlamydia and gonorrhea: Tests are generally meaningful up to 2 weeks after risk contact.
- HIV: Results are usually reliable 6 weeks after risk contact.
- Syphilis: Reliable testing is usually possible 6 weeks after risk contact.
Testing before the end of the respective diagnostic window could lead to a false-negative result. Therefore, we recommend waiting the appropriate time to ensure reliable test results.