Chapter 3

What to Do After the Result? (Whether It Is Positive or Negative)

What happens after an STI test, whatever the result. The chapter explains what a negative result means and why some infections may not show up straight after exposure, so a repeat test may be needed. For a positive result, it describes following your healthcare provider's treatment plan, such as antibiotics for bacterial infections, and acknowledges the emotions that can come with a diagnosis, encouraging readers to seek support. It covers why telling recent partners matters, how long-term conditions such as HIV and herpes are managed, and why completing treatment is important for curable infections. It ends with steps to prevent future infections, including condoms and vaccination.

Explore the module

Part of STIs Testing. The first chapter is free to read.