STIs

STI Tests

STI Profiles – Sexually Transmitted Infections

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For Whom

Sample Collection

FAQ

What are Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)?

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are infections caused by various microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites. They are primarily transmitted through unprotected sexual contact and can affect individuals of any age or gender.

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Sexually Transmitted Infections have increased significantly in recent years

The number of STI cases has increased considerably in recent years, currently representing a Public Health Issue.

Worldwide: more than 1 million STIs are acquired every day.

In Europe: the latest reports from the ECDC show an increase of 48% in gonorrhea cases, 34% in syphilis cases, and 16% in chlamydia cases between 2021 and 2022

In Portugal: the data is even more concerning, with an increase of 80% in gonorrhea cases, 34% in syphilis cases, and 63% in chlamydia cases between 2021 and 2022

The importance of early STI detection

When symptoms of a sexually transmitted infection occur, they may appear shortly after sexual contact. However, symptoms can also disappear before diagnosis or treatment, allowing the infection to remain in the body.

STIs can remain asymptomatic for long periods, making early diagnosis difficult and enabling silent transmission between sexual partners. If untreated, STIs may lead to more serious complications such as infertility, cancer, increased risk of contracting other STIs, and complications during pregnancy.

Early identification of these symptoms is essential for accurate diagnosis and timely, specific treatment.

Adopting a Preventive Approach

While most STIs are treatable or curable, proper and consistent condom use and routine testing are effective preventive measures. These practices not only protect individual health but also help stop the transmission chain, improving collective health.

How SYNLAB can help?

Most Common STIs Profile – Code PF200

Focuses on detecting the most prevalent STIs with long-term impact: Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Trichomonas vaginalis, and Mycoplasma genitalium, using DNA testing on a swab or urine sample. HIV and syphilis are tested through the detection of antibodies in a blood sample.

STIs Hepatitis B & C Profile – Code PF201

Targets screening for Hepatitis B and C by identifying antibodies in a blood sample.

STIs Plus Profile – Code PF202

Combines the two profiles above, offering a more complete and in-depth analysis.

In addition to these profiles, SYNLAB also offers other STI panels and individual tests. For more information, please contact our customer support team.

Who Should Get Tested for STIs?

STI tests are intended for individuals of all genders who:

Are sexually active and want to assess their sexual health
Have had unprotected sex (e.g., without using condoms)
Have had sexual contact with someone infected or suspected to be infected
Have multiple sexual partners
Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant (as part of preconception care)

Sample Collection

STI tests are carried out using swab, urine, or blood samples. Samples are collected by a technician at the selected SYNLAB location.

Swabs

Urethral, vaginal, anal, oral, or ocular swabs, depending on symptoms;
In men, urine may be used as an alternative to urethral swabs

Blood

Used for serology to identify specific antibodies or antigens (e.g., for syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis)

Preparation Requirements

No specific preparation is needed for swab collection
Urine sample should be the first urine of the morning (first stream)
No fasting is required for blood collection

Where can I take STI profiles?

STI profiles can be performed at any SYNLAB unit or at home. Check the nearest SYNLAB location or schedule a home visit.

Can I book STI profiles anonymously?

To book a selected profile, contact our customer support via:
- Phone: +351 210 303 210
- Chat on the SYNLAB website

Our team will ensure maximum discretion on the selected date. However, you must provide a personal ID number or a Citizen Card/Passport number.

How long until STI test results are ready?

Results are available within 3 to 8 working days.

How will I receive the results?

Results are available through our website (www.synlab.pt) or by email.

How are results interpreted when microorganism DNA is tested?

Possible results:
- Detectable
- Not Detectable
- Inconclusive

What does a 'Detectable' result mean?

A Detectable result indicates the presence of DNA from the microorganism, supporting the diagnosis of an infection. You should consult your healthcare provider.

What does a 'Not Detectable' result mean?

This means DNA from the microorganism was not found. However, it does not exclude the possibility of infection. If clinical signs strongly suggest infection, additional samples should be collected for testing.

What does an 'Inconclusive' result mean?

This means that a new sample must be collected.

What is the Immune Window Period related to infection?

The 'immune window' is the time between infection and the appearance of antibodies against the microorganism.

- Syphilis: IgM antibodies appear about 2 weeks after infection; IgG after 4 weeks
- Hepatitis C: Antibodies appear 4–8 weeks after infection
- Hepatitis B: HBsAg antigen appears about 4 weeks after infection
- HIV: p24 antigen detectable between day 11 and 1 month; Antibodies detectable around 3 months

These time frames apply to individuals with healthy immune systems. They may vary in immunocompromised patients.

How are results interpreted when antibody testing is performed?

Results are classified as:
- Positive
- Negative

What does a Positive antibody result mean?

A positive result indicates the presence of antibodies against the microorganism. This may mean you are infected. You should consult your healthcare provider immediately.

What does a Negative antibody result mean?

A negative result means you are not infected. However, if you had a recent risk exposure and the test was done during the immune window period, the test may need to be repeated after a few weeks.

What is a Notifiable Communicable Disease?

A notifiable disease is one that must, by law, be reported to public health authorities. These data allow health officials to monitor diseases and anticipate potential outbreaks.

In Portugal, notifiable diseases must be reported on the SINAVE platform, whether cases are possible, probable, or confirmed. The list of notifiable diseases is available in Order No. 12513-B/2019 | DR. Patients may be contacted by national health system professionals.

Is a medical prescription required for these tests?

A medical prescription is not required to perform these profiles. However, for proper interpretation and personalized advice, we recommend consulting a qualified healthcare professional.

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