STI Testing: Which Test Do I Actually Need?
Six packages, two sample types, three branches and a home kit option. This page matches your situation to the right test so you do not have to guess.
Blood Test vs PCR Swab
This is the first thing that confuses people. Epicentre offers two types of STI test. They detect different infections using different methods, and you may need both for full coverage.
Blood tests detect antibodies: proteins your immune system builds in response to infection. A nurse draws blood from your arm. This is how HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B and herpes are detected. The trade-off is that antibodies take weeks to develop, so blood tests have a longer window period (4 – 12 weeks).
PCR swab tests detect the actual DNA of the organism. You collect the swab yourself in a private room. This is how chlamydia, gonorrhoea, trichomoniasis, mycoplasma, ureaplasma and HPV are detected. PCR catches infections from just two weeks after exposure because it does not wait for an immune response.
In short: blood = HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B, herpes. Swab = chlamydia, gonorrhoea, trichomoniasis, mycoplasma, ureaplasma, HPV. For full coverage you need both. Not sure which infections are silent? Read that first.
Find Your Situation
New Relationship
Test together. The Sexual Health Express covers five infections via blood: HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B, chlamydia and herpes. To add swab-detected infections, combine it with the Medium PCR Package.
Routine Annual Screen
Annual testing is recommended for everyone who is sexually active, even in a long-term relationship. The Sexual Health Express covers the core five via blood. If budget allows, add the Medium PCR Package for the nine swab-detected targets.
I Have Symptoms
Symptoms point to an active localised infection. A PCR swab identifies the exact organism. The Medium Package (9 targets) is the best starting point: it includes mycoplasma and ureaplasma, which are common causes of urethritis that most clinics miss.
After Unprotected Sex
Test now for a baseline, then retest after the window period. Blood infections (HIV, syphilis): confirm at 6 – 12 weeks. PCR infections (chlamydia, gonorrhoea): test from 2 weeks.
Partner Tested Positive
Tell reception which infection your partner was diagnosed with. Chlamydia or gonorrhoea: PCR swab. HIV or syphilis: blood test. Not sure: the Medium PCR plus the Sexual Health Express covers everything.
The Complete Picture
The Extra Large Package tests 35 targets: every common STI plus HPV, vaginal microbiome, BV markers and Candida species. Walk-in or home kit.
Quick Comparison
| Package | Targets | Sample | Price | Home Kit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIV Screening | 1 | Blood | R168 | Walk-in only |
| Sexual Health Express | 5 | Blood | R1,076 | Walk-in only |
| Small PCR | 4 | Self-swab | R1,235 | ✓ |
| Medium PCR | 9 | Self-swab | R1,508 | ✓ |
| Large | 10+HPV | Self-swab | R1,925 | ✓ |
| Extra Large | 35 | Self-swab | R3,305 | ✓ |
All prices include VAT. Payflex interest-free instalments. 10% student discount. 10% pensioner discount.
Still not sure? Take the 30-second quiz on our packages page, or walk in and tell reception what you are concerned about.
Walk-In or Home Kit?
Walk-in if you need a blood test, want the fastest turnaround, or prefer nurse-assisted collection. Durban (Hillcrest, 031 880 2150), Cape Town (Observatory, 021 201 1658), Johannesburg (Parktown North, 082 065 2172). Mon – Fri, 08:30 – 16:00. No appointment needed.
Home kit if you want total privacy or cannot reach a branch. PCR swab tests only. Discreet packaging, prepaid return. Stellenbosch pickup available. Students get 10% off.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which STI test should I get?
Blood test vs PCR swab?
How much does STI testing cost?
Do I need a doctor's referral?
How long for results?
Can I test at home?
What if I test positive?
Stop Guessing. Start Testing.
15 minutes. No doctor's referral. Results to your email only.
Epicentre Walk-In Labs does not provide medical diagnoses. For medical diagnoses and advice, please consult your healthcare practitioner. Practice #1117394.
