Before you start: If you have any uncertainty, the honest answer is usually "yes — a test is a good idea." Testing is free, confidential, and most STIs are silent. This tool is here to help you decide what kind of test fits your situation — not to talk you out of one.
Are you noticing any symptoms?
Things like unusual discharge, pain when peeing, sores, bumps, itching, unexplained rash, pelvic pain. Be honest with yourself — this is a private page.
Have you had a new sexual partner in the last 3 months?
"New partner" includes one-off encounters, casual partners, or starting up with someone new. We're asking because routine HSE guidance is to test between partners.
Has any of that sex been without a condom?
Condoms reduce — but don't eliminate — STI risk. We're asking because consistently using condoms is one of the biggest factors that lowers (but doesn't remove) the need for routine testing.
When did you last have an STI test?
If you've been with new partners since your last test, the HSE recommends a fresh screen. If you've never tested before, no judgment — most people in Ireland haven't.
If you were to test, what would you prefer?
Both routes are free. Your answer just decides whether we point you to a county clinic or to the free home kit.
Here's what we'd suggest
Nothing on this page is medical advice. If you'd like to talk to a real person, the HSE Sexual Health Line is free on 1800 700 700.
Why we made this
The honest reason people don't test isn't usually cost — testing in Ireland is free. It's the small lift of not knowing where to start, plus the fear that asking the question is somehow itself an admission of something. This tool is the answer to "where do I even start." If you got this far, you're already doing the hardest part.
If you want to read the full pillar instead, the symptoms guide and what happens at a clinic are the two most useful pages on the rest of the site.
Related
Important: Nothing on STI.ie is medical advice. HSE Sexual Health Line: 1800 700 700.