How long should you wait to get tested?

As a public health expert with a focus on infectious diseases, I can provide you with guidance on when to get tested for various sexually transmitted infections (STIs) after potential exposure. It's important to note that the timing for testing can vary depending on the specific infection and the type of test used. Here's a general guideline: - 2 weeks: This is the recommended waiting period for gonorrhea, chlamydia, and also for a pregnancy test if you suspect you might be pregnant. - 1 week to 3 months: For syphilis, it can take anywhere from one week to three months for the body to develop enough antibodies to be detected by a test. - 6 weeks to 3 months: For HIV, hepatitis C, and hepatitis B, the window period—the time after exposure when the virus may not be detectable in tests—can range from six weeks to three months. It's crucial to remember that these timeframes are general estimates, and individual circumstances can affect when a test can accurately detect an infection. If you believe you've been exposed to an STI, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.

Here's how long after exposure we can get a reliable test result: 2 weeks: gonorrhea and chlamydia (and a pregnancy test too!) 1 week to 3 months: syphilis. 6 weeks to 3 months: HIV, hepatitis C and B.