Syphilis test in Chiswick, London

What the test measures

Syphilis is a bacterial infection usually passed on through vaginal, anal or oral sex with someone who has it. Early signs can include small sores (ulcers) on or around the genitals or anus, and later a rash, often on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. These signs can be mild and may fade on their own, but the infection stays in the body until it is treated. Syphilis is treated with antibiotics.

This blood test looks for antibodies your immune system makes against the syphilis bacterium. If the screening test is positive, the laboratory carries out further tests to confirm the result.

Testing at Omnia is confidential and non-judgemental. The price includes your blood sample taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a review of your result with an Omnia practitioner, and a GP feedback report on request. No GP referral is needed and most results are ready within a few working days.

Who it is for

• You have had sex without a condom with a new or casual partner.
• A partner has told you they have syphilis.
• You want a regular sexual health check, for example every few months if you have several partners.
• You noticed a sore or rash that has since gone away and want to be sure.
• You prefer a quick, private clinic appointment rather than a walk-in service.

Free testing is also available at NHS sexual health clinics. Private testing suits people who want speed, privacy or a booked appointment.

Understanding your result

Negative: no syphilis antibodies were found. Antibodies take time to develop, and NHS sexual health services use a window period of 12 weeks after the last possible exposure for a reliable result. If you tested sooner, plan to repeat the test at 12 weeks.

Positive: this needs confirming, usually with a second sample, and further tests to show whether the infection is active. These antibodies stay positive for life in most people, even after successful treatment, so tell your practitioner if you have had syphilis before. A positive result simply starts a conversation, and your practitioner will help you get treatment at an NHS sexual health clinic quickly.

Get help promptly: if you have a sore, ulcer or unexplained rash now, go to a sexual health clinic or see your GP rather than waiting for the window period. Treatment can be started before results are back. If you are pregnant, tell your midwife, as syphilis screening is part of NHS antenatal care.

Preparing for your test

No fasting is needed. Bring the approximate date of your last possible exposure and any details of previous syphilis treatment, so your practitioner can interpret the result correctly.

Syphilis often sits within a wider sexual health check. Compare all STI tests, add an HIV test from the same blood sample, or browse every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is a syphilis test in Chiswick?

The syphilis blood test costs £49 at our Chiswick clinic. This includes your blood sample, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a confidential practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.

Where can I get a syphilis test in London without a referral?

You can book directly with us in Chiswick W4, close to Turnham Green station. No GP referral is needed, and NHS sexual health clinics across London also offer free testing.

Will I always test positive after treatment?

Usually, yes. Most people keep syphilis antibodies for life, so a specialist clinic uses different blood tests to check that treatment has worked and to look for a new infection.

Can syphilis be cured?

Yes. Syphilis is treated with antibiotics. Avoid sex until two weeks after you and your partner have finished treatment, and attend follow-up tests as advised.