Complete screening for sexually transmitted diseases and infections (STD Test) at FirstMed in Budapest
Getting an STD Test is a great way to protect your health and the health of others. STD lab tests are the most accurate way to determine whether or not you have such a disease or infection. At FirstMed, we provide various STD tests that will give you peace of mind about your sexual health.
A sexually transmitted disease (STD) occurs when the body is infected by bacteria, viruses, or parasites through sexual contact. Although diseases may result from an infection (STI), one can have one without developing its related disease. Some infections have obvious signs that can alert of their presence, while others do not produce symptoms.
The only way to make sure of your sexual health is by getting an STD test.
The STD testing process is simple:
Purchase online
Select your preferred STD test and purchase it through our website.
Schedule an appointment
We will contact you soon to schedule your visit.
Visit
the clinic
Our clinic is located close to Széll Kálmán tér metro station.
Get tested
Taking the sample for your STD/STI test needs only a short, 15-30 minute visit.
Receive the results
You will get the results by email within 45 minutes or up to 8 working days of your appointment.
Choose your preferred STD Test package:
FirstMed provides a variety of STD lab tests to suit individual needs. Select your STD test package and increase your confidence in your sexual health.
STD Panel Quick Test from Blood
STD Panel PCR Test
Please note that the STD lab test packages do not include a medical consultation. If you have any complaints, you should book an appointment to see a doctor. In such cases, you can discuss your concerns and get a checkup. Based on the examination of the symptoms, the doctor may suggest taking cultures for a lab exam and recommend other tests for a thorough screening. Please refer to our price list for consultation prices.
FirstMed's STD Test lab panel packages
STD Panel Quick Test from Blood
FirstMed’s STD Panel Quick Test checks for the following sexually transmitted diseases from a blood sample:
- Syphilis
- HIV (Aids)
- Hepatitis B (HBV / HBsAg (Hepatitis B virus surface antigen))
- Hepatitis C (anti-HCV)
This rapid antibody blood test effectively screens for these STDs because it is highly sensitive and very fast.
The best is to have an antibody test the earliest 2-3 weeks after potential exposure when it can effectively detect HIV and get tested again 2-3 weeks later, as the window period of syphilis, hepatitis B, and C is 4-5 weeks after infection.
STD quick blood testing procedure:
- We take a blood sample from you at a 15-minute visit.
- Our lab performs the evaluation.
- You may get the preliminary lab results electronically within 45 minutes.
- In case the result is positive, a confirmatory evaluation is necessary, which usually takes up to 5 working days turnaround.
STD Panel PCR Test
The STD Panel PCR Test can reveal the following infections from the relevant body fluid specimen:
- Gonorrhea
- Chlamydia
- Genital herpes
- HPV
- Mycoplasma
- Ureaplasma
We recommend getting a PCR test for these STDs 2 weeks after potential infection or earlier if you have any symptoms.
The STD Panel PCR testing procedure:
STD Panel PCR Testing is conducted on the relevant non-blood sample: urine (preferred for men) or vaginal swabs (preferred for women), urethral swabs, endocervical swabs, or rectal and oropharyngeal swabs.
- We take the sample on a short, 15-minute visit.
- Our lab will proceed with the evaluation.
- You get the test results electronically within 8 working days of your visit.
Sometimes, a culture may be necessary to determine which antibiotics the specific bacteria is sensitive to. This is not included in the package and would require an extra cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
When shall I get screened for STDs after a potential exposure?
If you have been potentially exposed to an STD/STI, you may think you need to be tested right away. However, it can take time for the immune system to react to an infection. Some STDs/STIs do not show up immediately after infection. This is known as the ‘window period’—if you get tested too soon, there may not be enough time for the test to detect the presence of the STD/STI, and this could lead to a false negative result. Consider the certain incubation times or window periods when making an appointment for your STD test.
How soon can antibody blood tests reveal STDs?
The below window periods show the average length of time for a disease to show up on a test:
- Syphilis: 4-6 weeks
- HIV: 2-3 weeks
- Hepatitis B (HBV / HBsAg (Hepatitis B virus surface antigen)): 2‑10 weeks
- Hepatitis C (anti-HCV): 8-12 weeks.
How soon can STD PCR tests detect an infection?
We recommend having a PCR test 2 weeks after potential infection or earlier if you have any symptoms. The average incubation periods for each infection are:
- Genital herpes: 4 days (may range between 2-12 weeks)
- Chlamydia and gonorrhea: 2 weeks
- Mycoplasma: 1-4 weeks
- Ureaplasma: 2-3 weeks
- HPV: 4-5 weeks (ranges from 1 to 20 months)
A rapid antibody blood test may detect HIV the earliest, between 18 to 90 days after exposure. The best is to have an antibody test the earliest 2-3 weeks after potential exposure and again 2-3 weeks later, as the window period of syphilis, hepatitis B and C is 4-5 weeks after infection.
Note that there is always a chance of a false negative result, which may originate from a longer incubation period or a possible sampling error. If your first STD test result is negative, we suggest getting tested again later, as the window period is different for each disease.
Should I see a doctor for an STD test?
At FirstMed, it’s not necessary to have a medical consultation for STD testing. However, a doctor’s visit is required for taking a sample before specific STD PCR tests. Note that this visit is limited to taking the sample and doesn’t include consultation or examination, i.e., the specification of the proper test, the indication of an investigation, the establishment of a diagnosis, or the interpretation of the results.
If you have any questions or concerns, make an appointment with a doctor. On a personal visit to our clinic or via Telemedicine consultation, the doctor may:
- Recommend the suitable test for your needs,
- Check your symptoms, if you have any;
- Suggest whether/when you should take an STD test;
- Advise on how to prepare for the STD test;
- Recommend or start treatment if your test becomes positive;
- Answer any other questions you might have.
What is the screening procedure at FirstMed?
STD screening is performed at FirstMed by taking a sample and processing it in the lab. The process extends only to carrying out the testing. However, our doctors are happy to answer any questions or concerns during a consultation or help if you are experiencing symptoms.
How to prepare for the STD testing?
Keep in mind the below guidelines to get an accurate result when getting tested for a sexually transmitted disease or infection:
- Avoid sexual intercourse in the 3 days before the screening.
- You may eat or drink before getting tested for STDs. The STD Test doesn't need fasting.
- Women should consider their monthly cycle before making an appointment, as STD sampling cannot be done during menstruation.
- Men should not urinate for at least 1,5-2 hours before getting an STD PCR test.
Are the STD test results accurate?
These STD lab tests are accurate and reliable, however, it may occur that you get a false negative result. This means you have the disease, but your test results come back saying that you don’t.
A range of factors could affect the test accuracy, including the window period during which the body must produce enough antibodies to get an accurate test result.
If your test becomes negative, but you still experience symptoms, visit a doctor – there may be another disease that causes the symptoms.
In rare cases, a false positive result may occur when a test comes back as though you have an STD, even though you actually don’t. It could be due to various reasons, including the presence of antibodies that were produced by another infection or vaccination.
In some circumstances, and to get complete certainty, it may be necessary to repeat the screening.
What shall I do if my STD test result is positive?
In the event of a positive test result, it is advisable to promptly inform your partner(s) and visit a doctor for a checkup without delay.
Discuss possible treatment and next steps with the doctor. The specialist may suggest a control visit, prescribe medication, or refer you to further examinations.
Many STIs can be cured with antibiotics. Some infections, such as HIV, have no cure, but they can be treated.
What are the most common STD and STI symptoms?
If you suspect you have a sexually transmitted disease or infection, it’s important to recognize the common signs and symptoms, such as:
- Sores, warts, or bumps on and/or near the genitals, thighs, or anus;
- Local sores, warts, or bumps (in the mouth or throat);
- Unusual discharge from the vagina or penis;
- Itching, pain, irritation, and/or swelling in or around the genitals;
- Flu-like symptoms like fever, aches, swelling, and fatigue.
It’s important to prioritize your sexual health and well-being. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical advice promptly. Visit a doctor for a checkup, and begin any required treatment as soon as possible.
For more information, read our guide about the different sexually transmitted infections and diseases (STIs and STDs), their symptoms, when to get tested for STDs/STIs, and how to protect yourself from being infected. Being informed about them is essential to protect yourself and others.
Why get tested for STDs at FirstMed?
FirstMed will help you navigate the sometimes difficult or embarrassing process of STD testing. With our range of options, we can guarantee a smooth examination procedure for all situations.
- Highly experienced and qualified English-speaking staff.
- The STD testing process is simple, smooth and confidential.
- STD testing needs only a short, 15-30 minute visit.
- Flexible opening hours: You can book an appointment for the afternoon or early evening.
- Central location in Budapest, near Széll Kálmán tér metro station.
- You can get your results in English or Hungarian (or both languages, as you prefer).
- Discuss the next steps or possible treatment with our doctors. See a specialist if you have any questions or in case your test result is positive. (Please note that the STD test doesn't include a doctor's consultation, but we are happy to book it for you separately.)
If you think you’ve been exposed, it’s better to know than to worry. STDs can be scary, but you can overcome them with proper attention and care. That’s why it is vital to get tested regularly. Have an STD test together with your partner at the same time to avoid passing the infection back and forth (the “ping-pong effect).
Request STD testing and/or related medical consultation
Fill in the form below, and our phone nurses will contact you. Make sure to purchase the required STD Test online in advance through our webshop.
After submitting the form, you will get a confirmation by email, and a “Thank you” page will appear.
If you do not receive the confirmation, please check your spam folder, and whether you completed the form fully.
