Your At-Home Guide: What To Do If You Suspect a Rectal STI

Your At-Home Guide: What To Do If You Suspect a Rectal STI

If you’re worried you might have picked up a rectal sexually transmitted infection (STI), you’re not alone. Many people in the UK share your concern—especially with symptoms like rectal pain, itching, or discharge after a sexual encounter.

What Are Your First Steps?

• Don’t panic! Most STIs, including chlamydia and gonorrhoea, are easily treated.
• Avoid sex until you’ve been tested and (if necessary) treated.
• Talk to partners if you have a positive result, so they can get tested too.

How to Test for Rectal Infections From Home

• Use the Mayfield Clinic’s At-Home Rectal Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea Test Kit for a fast, discreet solution.
• Collect your sample with the included Aptima multi-site swab—full easy instructions provided.
• Send your sample in the prepaid envelope.
• Get confidential results in just 2 days.

What If Your Test Is Positive?

• Contact Mayfield Clinic or your local GP for treatment—UK GPs can prescribe antibiotics for these infections.
• Follow all treatment instructions precisely.
• Wait to have sex until your GP confirms you’re clear.

How to Look After Your Sexual Health

• Test regularly if you’re sexually active, especially after new partners
• Use condoms for all types of sex, including oral and anal, to reduce risk
• Encourage open conversations about sexual health with partners
• Reach out for support—Mayfield Clinic’s GPs and the NHS Sexual Health Service are always here for you

Mayfield Clinic also offers in-person blood testing with same-day appointments if you need more counselling or want to discuss your options face to face.

Take Charge Today

Order your at-home rectal STI kit now for peace of mind and fast answers. Or book a confidential consultation with our sexual health GP specialists.