Sexual Health Clinic & STI Testing in Surfers Paradise
Confidential STI Testing On The Gold Coast
Worried about a symptom, starting a new relationship or just due for a check? Our sexual health clinic in Surfers Paradise, which some people call a sex clinic or STD clinic, offers confidential STI testing, treatment and advice for people of every gender, age and sexuality, without judgement and without the wait of a public clinic.
An STI test, also known as STD testing or STI screening, is quick and usually painless. Most checks involve a urine sample, a swab you can often collect yourself, or a blood test, and our onsite pathology collection means you can usually have your tests done straight after seeing the GP. Many sexually transmitted infections cause no symptoms at all, which is why regular screening matters even when you feel fine.
We are a predominantly bulk billing medical centre open 7 days in the Piazza on the Boulevard building, and walk-ins are welcome. Female GPs are available if you prefer, and you can book an appointment online at any time.
Walk-In STI Testing Hours
No appointment or referral needed. Walk in any day of the year and ask reception for a sexual health check.
Pathology collection is on site, including weekend mornings.
STI And STD Tests Available At Our Clinic
Your GP will recommend which tests suit you based on your symptoms, your partners and your sexual history. Whether you need a full STI screening or a single test, a routine STI check on the Gold Coast usually covers chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis and HIV, with other tests added when they are needed.
Chlamydia
Gonorrhoea
Syphilis
Mycoplasma Genitalium
HIV
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis C
Herpes
Symptoms Or No Symptoms, Both Are A Reason To Test
Many people only think about an STI test when something feels wrong, but the most common infections are often silent. Left untreated, some can affect fertility or be passed on without you knowing.
No Symptoms? Book A Routine STI Check
- Chlamydia and other common STIs often cause no symptoms at all
- A yearly check is recommended if you are under 30 and sexually active
- Test after any new partner, or before stopping condoms with a regular partner
- Usually just a urine sample or self-collected swab plus a blood test
Curious what happens on the day? Read sexual health screening: what to expect.
Have Symptoms? Be Seen Sooner
- Unusual discharge from the penis, vagina or anus
- Pain or burning when you pass urine
- Sores, blisters, lumps or a rash around the genitals, anus or mouth
- Pain during sex or pain low in the abdomen
- Bleeding between periods or after sex
Walk in during opening hours or book the next available appointment. Avoid sex until you have been checked and treated.
Who Should Get An STI Test And How Often
These are general guides based on Australian sexual health recommendations. Your GP will tailor testing to you, and you can have a check any time you are concerned.
| If This Is You | Suggested Testing |
|---|---|
| Sexually active and under 30 | A chlamydia test every year, plus a full check with any new partner. |
| New or multiple partners | A full STI check after a new partner, and regularly while you have more than one. |
| Men who have sex with men | A comprehensive STI and HIV check every 3 to 12 months, depending on your risk. |
| Taking or starting PrEP | HIV and STI testing every 3 months as part of your PrEP reviews. |
| Pregnant or planning a pregnancy | Syphilis, HIV and hepatitis B testing in early pregnancy, with other tests as advised. |
| Back from travel with new partners | A full check on your return, even if you feel well. |
| Your partner has an STI | Testing and treatment straight away, usually without waiting for results. |
If you are pregnant, our pregnancy and antenatal care team includes these tests in your early pregnancy bloods.
HIV Prevention With PEP And PrEP
PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is a 28 day course of HIV medicines for someone who may have been exposed to HIV. It must be started within 72 hours of the exposure, and the sooner the better. During opening hours, come in straight away and tell reception it is urgent. After hours, go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a medicine HIV-negative people take to prevent HIV. It is subsidised on the PBS and involves HIV and STI testing every three months. Ask one of our GPs whether PrEP suits you and they can look after your regular reviews.
Vaccines That Protect Your Sexual Health
Some of the most effective sexual health protection comes from vaccines, and several are free for eligible people.
- HPV vaccine protects against the types of HPV that cause most cervical, anal and throat cancers and genital warts. It is free for young people up to 25.
- Hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for anyone who is not already immune.
- Hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for some groups, including men who have sex with men.
- Mpox vaccine is available free for people at higher risk.
Your GP can check your vaccination history and give any doses you need.
Sexual Health Care For Everyone Who Walks In
Surfers Paradise is home to locals of every background, as well as backpackers, students and holidaymakers from around the world. Whoever you are, our GPs offer the same private, respectful care.
Sexual Health Clinic FAQs
Answers to the questions people most often ask before an STI test at our Surfers Paradise clinic.
Do I need a referral or appointment for an STI test?
No. You can walk in any day of the year and ask reception for a sexual health check, or book online if you prefer a set time. Your GP orders the tests during the consult, and our onsite pathology collection means most samples can be taken straight afterwards.
Is my STI test confidential?
Yes. Your consultation and results are protected by Australian privacy law and are only shared with your permission. Medicare-funded services do appear on the Medicare history of whoever holds your card, so from age 15 you may prefer to apply for your own Medicare card through Services Australia.
How soon after sex should I get tested?
Chlamydia and gonorrhoea can usually be detected from about two weeks after contact, while syphilis and HIV blood tests may need repeating at around six and twelve weeks. If you have symptoms, do not wait. Your GP will tell you when to test and whether a follow-up test is needed.
How long do STI test results take?
Most results come back within a few days to a week. Your GP will explain how you will receive them and arrange treatment quickly if anything is positive. Many common infections are cured with a short course of antibiotics.
Does an STI test hurt?
Usually not. Most tests are a urine sample, a swab you can often collect yourself in private, and a quick blood test. If you have sores or discharge, your GP may take a gentle swab to identify the cause.
Will my partners be told if I have an STI?
Not without your consent. Your GP will talk with you about letting recent partners know so they can be tested and treated too. If you would rather not tell them yourself, the free Let Them Know service lets you send an anonymous message.
Can I get tested if I do not have Medicare?
Yes. Overseas visitors and working holiday makers can book a private appointment and pay on the day, and international students can use their Overseas Student Health Cover. Pathology fees may apply, so ask reception about costs when you arrive.
What should I do if I think I need PEP?
Act quickly, because PEP must start within 72 hours of possible HIV exposure. Come in straight away during opening hours and tell reception it is urgent. After hours, go to your nearest hospital emergency department.
Get Tested Today In Surfers Paradise
Walk in 7 days a week or book ahead. Confidential, respectful sexual health care in the Piazza on the Boulevard building.
