Can medicines affect HIV test results?

Many sexually transmitted infections cause no symptoms at all, which is precisely why testing rather than waiting for signs is the right approach. Chlamydia is the clearest example — the majority of infections in women and a large proportion in men produce no symptoms, while untreated infection can damage the fallopian tubes and cause infertility. Gonorrhoea, trichomonas, and early syphilis can all be similarly silent. Where symptoms occur they may include discharge, burning on passing urine, pelvic or testicular pain, unusual bleeding, or sores — but their absence means very little. For anyone trying to conceive, or with a new partner, screening is reasonable regardless of symptoms. Testing is straightforward: urine samples or swabs for chlamydia and gonorrhoea, blood tests for HIV and syphilis. Both partners should be tested and, where infection is found, both treated — otherwise reinfection simply cycles between you. Sexual health clinics provide this confidentially. If you have had unprotected sex with a new partner and are planning pregnancy, testing before rather than during pregnancy is preferable.