Getting tested for STDs. How often do you guys get tested, if at all?

[Rochelle]

That's not for you to comment on...

2 Service Providers
This site allows service providers to be members, but there is zero-tolerance for touting, flirting, attention-seeking and negative attitude towards punters. Service providers must respect the ethos of the site. This site is not a chat platform between clients and service providers, nor is it a support site for service providers. All service providers / non-punters must reveal their working identities - no 'anonymous WGs'.

If you feel I've broken them then you know what to do.
I don't believe I have.

[Ali Katt]

Reviews may not be a requirement YET but some of us want to contribute, you clearly cant be bothered doing reviews of your punting, and happily leech. And you seem to find it odd some are criticising you, wake up.

More to the point it's odd how I've not really had any negative comments on my reviews, quite the opposite and I mainly see mature women and big girls. There this whole myth that people are wanking off to (detailed) reviews, they really aren't especially given there's an abundance of free porn and erotic stories.

[Horizontal pleasures]

I like this practice:
External Link/Members Only

I prefer it to NHS GUM clinics and the results come fast by email.

I should have added this link:
External Link/Members Only

[MrMatrix]

I saw her recently and will possibly see her again at some point.

If I do I shall mention this. I thought she was OK.

Please do WW.

[winkywanky]

 

[smiths]

More to the point it's odd how I've not really had any negative comments on my reviews, quite the opposite and I mainly see mature women and big girls. There this whole myth that people are wanking off to (detailed) reviews, they really aren't especially given there's an abundance of free porn and erotic stories.

Credibility helps with that, you have it, some don't. If a poster hardly posts they shouldn't be surprised if some don't see them as credible, they MIGHT actually be honest of course but posting on a regular basis as you have done over the years always helps as it should do.

When I joined UKP I didn't get any stick as some knew me from elsewhere which greatly helped. Personally reading doesn't get my off at all, I need blatant in my face naked pussy for that, either in person or at in porn.

[Doc Holliday]

I can understand your comment here. However Slamboy who gave Tailseeker such a hard time (totally unneccessary) is no longer on the forum and I cant really blame her in no longer accessing this site. Tailseeker was an excellent source of knowledge and information. I hope she gives the forum a second chance but suspect she won't be back.
And Doc , thanks for picking this thread up.
 

I saw her recently and will possibly see her again at some point.

If I do I shall mention this. I thought she was OK.

Sorry I missed this.
Slamboy was indeed obsessed with attacking her although he wasn't alone, but everyone needs a thick skin on here and her hide seemed reasonably tough? I suspect there may well be other reasons she has stopped logging on?

Unlike TS my experience is cross infection control in general rather than STI specific, although as a punter I have also developed some bias towards knowledge of this sphere. She is also more current than I am as I have been retired for a number of years. Her only negative was that as a research scientist she saw things in more black and white, whereas as healthcare professionals 'at the coal face' tend to realise there are more shades of grey.

I'm really not sure that punting forums are the best place to seek advice on Sexual Health because of the quantity of crap that is posted by some. There is a wealth of information available online alone which is much less polluted by some of the nonsense and speculation posted on these threads!!

[AzorAhai19]

I know not an STD, but I picked up a bacterial infection of the throat the other day so now on antibiotics. It knocked me for six, felt like shite for past few days. I am thinking that's due to giving oral (?) but I enjoy giving oral. Now I'm paranoid about picking up another bacterial infection or worse. Any of you guys picked up a throat infection, likely due to eating pussy and any tips to prevent it? I've eaten civvie pussies before with no issue, but sods law that since I've started punting I pick up a throat infection a few weeks later. I'm starting to think I'm not cut out for punting, but I don't want to give it up because I think it's just paranoia. 

[Strawberry]

I know not an STD, but I picked up a bacterial infection of the throat the other day so now on antibiotics. It knocked me for six, felt like shite for past few days. I am thinking that's due to giving oral (?) but I enjoy giving oral. Now I'm paranoid about picking up another bacterial infection or worse. Any of you guys picked up a throat infection, likely due to eating pussy and any tips to prevent it? I've eaten civvie pussies before with no issue, but sods law that since I've started punting I pick up a throat infection a few weeks later. I'm starting to think I'm not cut out for punting, but I don't want to give it up because I think it's just paranoia. 

This is easily done via paranoia and I'm suspecting guilt, I'm biased because I have a pussy and a business however best advice is GUM clinic(who I suspect will say it's a coincidence) giving oral is supposed to be very low risk which is why the NHS consider it a waste of money to offer oral swabs to pussy-only men...............Doc might chime in in a bit.

[winkywanky]

Sorry I missed this.
Slamboy was indeed obsessed with attacking her although he wasn't alone, but everyone needs a thick skin on here and her hide seemed reasonably tough? I suspect there may well be other reasons she has stopped logging on?

Unlike TS my experience is cross infection control in general rather than STI specific, although as a punter I have also developed some bias towards knowledge of this sphere. She is also more current than I am as I have been retired for a number of years. Her only negative was that as a research scientist she saw things in more black and white, whereas as healthcare professionals 'at the coal face' tend to realise there are more shades of grey.

I'm really not sure that punting forums are the best place to seek advice on Sexual Health because of the quantity of crap that is posted by some. There is a wealth of information available online alone which is much less polluted by some of the nonsense and speculation posted on these threads!!

I think that's a fair assessment Doc. Someone at the Lab end of things cannot see things in quite the same way that a GP/Sexual Health Practitioner would. Having said that, someone in the Lab would also perhaps bring something to the table which a frontline professional might not, perhaps more cutting edge knowledge and a little more in depth for those anoraky enough to be interested.

As for online research by plebs such as I or anyone else, that's good, but always open to (mis)interpretation because knowing a little about something can be a dangerous thing - hearing stuff from you or TS on here can then allow any supplementary questions for clarification.

So, from me personally, please hang around for as long as you wish, and please don't be reluctant to post stuff up about things you know, it can only make UKP a better place. And if you get any snidey/dismissive comments, like with any bullshit on here, it tends to be shot down in flames by the vast majority of reasonable and pragmatic members who are keen to know what the score is. As with anything else, forewarned is forearmed when making decisions about punting.

[Doc Holliday]

I know not an STD, but I picked up a bacterial infection of the throat the other day so now on antibiotics. It knocked me for six, felt like shite for past few days. I am thinking that's due to giving oral (?) but I enjoy giving oral. Now I'm paranoid about picking up another bacterial infection or worse. Any of you guys picked up a throat infection, likely due to eating pussy and any tips to prevent it? I've eaten civvie pussies before with no issue, but sods law that since I've started punting I pick up a throat infection a few weeks later. I'm starting to think I'm not cut out for punting, but I don't want to give it up because I think it's just paranoia. 

This is classic example of the lack of logic and paranoia that I mention.

You say you know its not an std but then say you suspect you got it from eating pussy?

How do you know this is not an STD? How do you know it is bacterial (most throat infections are viral) although obviously not Chlamydia or Gonorrhoea. Did whoever gave you antibiotics take a swab? Did you tell them you had seen a prostitute and could it be as a result of that?

The chances of this being something that occurred as a result of cunnilingus are extremely low. You are much more likely to contract a viral upper respiratory tract infection from kissing or simply being breathed upon by anyone you come into contact with.

This thread was largely about asymptomatic screening. If however you have symptoms which, largely due to paranoia, you think may be related to sexual activity then, as Ruth says, you should get tested even though the results will almost certainly be negative.

[Doc Holliday]

I think that's a fair assessment Doc. Someone at the Lab end of things cannot see things in quite the same way that a GP/Sexual Health Practitioner would. Having said that, someone in the Lab would also perhaps bring something to the table which a frontline professional might not, perhaps more cutting edge knowledge and a little more in depth for those anoraky enough to be interested.

As for online research by plebs such as I or anyone else, that's good, but always open to (mis)interpretation because knowing a little about something can be a dangerous thing - hearing stuff from you or TS on here can then allow any supplementary questions for clarification.

So, from me personally, please hang around for as long as you wish, and please don't be reluctant to post stuff up about things you know, it can only make UKP a better place. And if you get any snidey/dismissive comments, like with any bullshit on here, it tends to be shot down in flames by the vast majority of reasonable and pragmatic members who are keen to know what the score is. As with anything else, forewarned is forearmed when making decisions about punting.

I completely agree with your comments about TS.

I would partly agree about online research and accept this is easier to interpret if you have a background in the subject. However I feel it is much more likely some people will get confused by seeking advice on a punting forum. As I have also said anyone embarking on a punting career should get a baseline check from a sexual health clinic which will include some advice rather than some years down the line or not at all.
But that just isn't the norm.

Lastly I assure I am completely flame proof when it comes to anything personal directed at me. What upsets me is the inaccurate nature of some posts by people who clearly haven't a clue and frankly should not be contributing to the subject nor indeed perhaps having sex outside of a monogamous relationship   

[winkywanky]

I would partly agree about online research and accept this is easier to interpret if you have a background in the subject. However I feel it is much more likely some people will get confused by seeking advice on a punting forum.

What upsets me is the inaccurate nature of some posts by people who clearly haven't a clue and frankly should not be contributing to the subject nor indeed perhaps having sex outside of a monogamous relationship   

This was my point about you hopefully remaining willing to respond to members' requests for info.

IMO hearing from you on here about this stuff is better than just Googling, because you're interactive. And you can dispel bollocks-posts too.

[MrMatrix]

Agreed, which is also why TS was a useful resource

[winkywanky]

Yep.

[advent2016]

I have to submit to random blood / urine samples. I bet they also test for STD. I still go for a regular gum check, even though I only indulge in FS/AS with dom. O I have without so there is still a marginal chance.  The GUM place never ask me any embarrassing  questions and the free condoms, canestan and antibiotics is nice to get.

[Jonestown]

.................... and the free condoms, canestan and antibiotics is nice to get.

why do they give you free canton and antibiotics, do you regularly pick up infections ?

[GingerNuts]

the free condoms, canestan and antibiotics is nice to get.

You make it seem like a routine thing. Why would the clinic be giving you Canesten and antibiotics unless you'd tested positive for something?

[daviemac]

You make it seem like a routine thing. Why would the clinic be giving you Canesten and antibiotics unless you'd tested positive for something?

+1

These days they don't give out antibiotics without good reason.

[advent2016]

Long answer
I have other long term problems with kidney / urinary tract  (stones tearing the tract) that results in thrush, kidney pain and pain/blood urinating.  Usually a course of general antibiotics (Amoxicillin, Telithromycin)  sorts out the problem. Going to the GUM is a quick way to get relief. I've had a whole load of private medical tests pushing up a camera where the sun don't shine that reveal nothing.  Sadly routine treatment isn't covered over here.

I find the Canestan and antibiotics from the GUM are often stronger and I can build up a larger course that better treats my circumstances as the GP usually gives me a week course when I need 3 weeks.

Sometimes I see a private GP/GUM and effectively say I need a 3 week antibiotic course for the same result, but it costs about £300.

I'm aware of antimicrobial resistance and only apply this measure about twice a year before going back round the private diagnostic route (running out of things that they will cover) and seeing a GP

Short answer
Visiting a GUM solves a problem for me.

[Strawberry]

Long answer
I have other long term problems with kidney / urinary tract  (stones tearing the tract) that results in thrush, kidney pain and pain/blood urinating.  Usually a course of general antibiotics (Amoxicillin, Telithromycin)  sorts out the problem. Going to the GUM is a quick way to get relief. I've had a whole load of private medical tests pushing up a camera where the sun don't shine that reveal nothing.  Sadly routine treatment isn't covered over here.

I find the Canestan and antibiotics from the GUM are often stronger and I can build up a larger course that better treats my circumstances as the GP usually gives me a week course when I need 3 weeks.

Sometimes I see a private GP/GUM and effectively say I need a 3 week antibiotic course for the same result, but it costs about £300.

I'm aware of antimicrobial resistance and only apply this measure about twice a year before going back round the private diagnostic route (running out of things that they will cover) and seeing a GP

Short answer
Visiting a GUM solves a problem for me.

Thank you that makes more sense now - I've never been given anti-fungals by the GUM nor antibiotics(doesn't mean it doesn't happen), then again my tests have always come back negative. In common with many other women I do tend to have the occasional attack of thrush for which I have my own supply of clotrimazole and fluconazole bought from a pharmacy.

[winkywanky]

Long answer
I have other long term problems with kidney / urinary tract  (stones tearing the tract) that results in thrush, kidney pain and pain/blood urinating.  Usually a course of general antibiotics (Amoxicillin, Telithromycin)  sorts out the problem. Going to the GUM is a quick way to get relief. I've had a whole load of private medical tests pushing up a camera where the sun don't shine that reveal nothing.  Sadly routine treatment isn't covered over here.

I find the Canestan and antibiotics from the GUM are often stronger and I can build up a larger course that better treats my circumstances as the GP usually gives me a week course when I need 3 weeks.

Sometimes I see a private GP/GUM and effectively say I need a 3 week antibiotic course for the same result, but it costs about £300.

I'm aware of antimicrobial resistance and only apply this measure about twice a year before going back round the private diagnostic route (running out of things that they will cover) and seeing a GP

Short answer
Visiting a GUM solves a problem for me.

I'm a little confused when you say 'sadly routine treatment isn't covered over here' which suggests you don't come from the UK but spend a lot of time here?

But I would say that although you know your own situation well, you should not be routinely self-medicating with antibiotics or anything else for that matter.

Whatever your personal/national/healthcare circumstances are you should be seeing a doctor when you need to, getting a professional diagnosis, and receiving appropriate treatment based on that.

I don't profess to know about kidney stones (although I know a little the mechanism/effects) but you may be doing permanent damage or end up with something very nasty. Whether your condition ideally requires careful diet/hydration/lifestyle management by you, ongoing treatment, surgery or anything else for that matter, you shouldn't really just be rocking up to a GUM Clinic and purloining antibiotics by underhand means to treat it yourself.

[advent2016]

In an ideal world I'd agree with you.

Sorry, when I said routine treatment. If I have some private diagnostic, the insurance don't cover the drugs after case is closed.

So,I try and get a free GP appointment , takes multiple weeks and follow ups the same.  Last few years they have recommended the same treatment. In the US they take a biopsy and make a custom antibiotic and this is always more effective

[winkywanky]

In an ideal world I'd agree with you.

Sorry, when I said routine treatment. If I have some private diagnostic, the insurance don't cover the drugs after case is closed.

So,I try and get a free GP appointment , takes multiple weeks and follow ups the same.  Last few years they have recommended the same treatment. In the US they take a biopsy and make a custom antibiotic and this is always more effective

So you're a US citizen, spending some time in the UK?

[AzorAhai19]

I just wanted to bump this as I am considering going to a clinic this week. However, I wanted to know whether I go through the NHS website for GUM clinics or what? I have had a few clinics appear on the google search, but not sure which are best to attend. One looks like a GP practice that deals with sexual health, but a couple others appear to be sexual health clinics, but one is open once a week, the other seems to be open everyday, but not sure whether to look into going there or not. How did you guys find out about the clinic you attended/attend?

[Clattypats]

I just wanted to bump this as I am considering going to a clinic this week. However, I wanted to know whether I go through the NHS website for GUM clinics or what? I have had a few clinics appear on the google search, but not sure which are best to attend. One looks like a GP practice that deals with sexual health, but a couple others appear to be sexual health clinics, but one is open once a week, the other seems to be open everyday, but not sure whether to look into going there or not. How did you guys find out about the clinic you attended/attend?

When I started punting, after the first 3 months, I phoned my GUM clinic (Sandyford) and booked an appointment for STI screening... My memory is rather vague as it was a good while ago, but think they asked if I had symptoms of anything/why i thought I should attend...

 I was honest and said I see Escorts on a regular basis, not everyone has to/will admit to that, but IMPO I felt it was best to do, as going fwd I would be making appointments 12 weekly...

[Waterhouse]

I just wanted to bump this as I am considering going to a clinic this week. However, I wanted to know whether I go through the NHS website for GUM clinics or what? I have had a few clinics appear on the google search, but not sure which are best to attend. One looks like a GP practice that deals with sexual health, but a couple others appear to be sexual health clinics, but one is open once a week, the other seems to be open everyday, but not sure whether to look into going there or not. How did you guys find out about the clinic you attended/attend?

Dedicated Sexual Health Clinics/Centres for Sexual Health are normally the best choice since it's what they do all day every day.  These are usually NHS funded.  There are also private clinics to consider if you prefer, costs can vary but for the standard STI tests/screening, you can usually get them done for around £250 or less depending on location and availability.

[snaitram99]

I just wanted to bump this as I am considering going to a clinic this week. However, I wanted to know whether I go through the NHS website for GUM clinics or what? I have had a few clinics appear on the google search, but not sure which are best to attend. One looks like a GP practice that deals with sexual health, but a couple others appear to be sexual health clinics, but one is open once a week, the other seems to be open everyday, but not sure whether to look into going there or not. How did you guys find out about the clinic you attended/attend?

Try searching on here in connection with your local area. If nothing useful comes up ask for opinions on your regional board. The three I am aware of accessible to me, one has an awkward appointment system, one I visited in a general hospital and found a judgemental attitude. The third, a bit further away, is a separate Sexual Health Clinic at a gen hospital site and became my regular one. (It was recommended by others in my region South Wales)

[Hungarian Lover]

They have a sexual health clinic near where I live, they operate a drop in or appointment system. I just normally turn up early and get seen quite quickly with results usually
 sent by text normally two weeks later, I get checked every couple of months (last check three weeks ago all clear). They've never been judgemental about my sexual habits and normally offer a condoms and lube if I want them, a good and discrete service.

[Horizontal pleasures]

External Link/Members Only

Finchley Road, London NW3 not far from the station, results usually next day or 2 days. Very reliable.

[Lady Lover]

Had my first test at the local GUM clinic in Royal Hospital Liverpool recently. Really professional, did not bat an eyelid at me seeing escorts. Pee sample and bloods done (even had a cheeky flirt with the blood nurse  ) out within fifteen minutes of entering - really handy walk in service. Results back within a week via text, all negative  Great service.

So important in this game to keep your health in check, I won't think twice about going again for an MOT

[Waterhouse]

Had my first test at the local GUM clinic in Royal Hospital Liverpool recently. Really professional, did not bat an eyelid at me seeing escorts. Pee sample and bloods done (even had a cheeky flirt with the blood nurse  ) out within fifteen minutes of entering - really handy walk in service. Results back within a week via text, all negative  Great service.

So important in this game to keep your health in check, I won't think twice about going again for an MOT

Just make sure you pass with flying colours. 

[Jonestown]

External Link/Members Only

Finchley Road, London NW3 not far from the station, results usually next day or 2 days. Very reliable.

At a price, £215+

[MrMatrix]

At a price, £215+

Owch..

[Horizontal pleasures]

At a price, £215+

you get privacy, speed and quality.

[Waterhouse]

you get privacy, speed and quality.

I get *exactly* the same service from my local/regular NHS GUM... results texted within 5 working days but usually quicker i.e. 2 or 3 days. And privacy is not an issue - it's all very discreet.

[MrMatrix]

I get *exactly* the same service from my local/regular NHS GUM... results texted within 5 working days but usually quicker i.e. 2 or 3 days. And privacy is not an issue - it's all very discreet.

And thats exactly what I get aswell.

[Jonestown]

you get privacy, speed and quality.

For that money I’d want to be able to pick from a line up of nurses and then give a live demonstration of exactly what I’d been getting up to to need an STI consultation.

[Horizontal pleasures]

I get *exactly* the same service from my local/regular NHS GUM... results texted within 5 working days but usually quicker i.e. 2 or 3 days. And privacy is not an issue - it's all very discreet.

Privacy? You should see the waiting room and reception queue at my local NHS GUM clinic.

[Waterhouse]

Privacy? You should see the waiting room and reception queue at my local NHS GUM clinic.

And you should see mine and maybe compare the two? 

I've never seen more than 6 or 7 people in the waiting area at mine and given I always book a time slot for a Friday afternoon, I'm usually in and out within half an hour.  Apart from the awful parking situation in the main hospital carpark itself, it's pretty much a hassle free encounter with pleasant and experienced staff - both the doctors and nurses.
 

[Strawberry]

And you should see mine and maybe compare the two? 

I've never seen more than 6 or 7 people in the waiting area at mine and given I always book a time slot for a Friday afternoon, I'm usually in and out within half an hour.  Apart from the awful parking situation in the main hospital carpark itself, it's pretty much a hassle free encounter with pleasant and experienced staff - both the doctors and nurses.
 

Similar here except 6 or 7 would be unusual usually 0 - 4 maximum, 0-2 the norm some could be attending the contraception clinic.

[The Owl]

I am just curious about getting tested since starting punting. I am wondering how regular I should get tested. Do you guys get tested regularly or not so much? I have never even stepped foot into a sexual health clinic in the past, so would not know the first thing about the protocol with them. What are you guys' opinions on getting tested?

If you only have protected vaginal and anal sex but do engage in other services without using a barrier then my GUM recommends getting tested every 3 months. They also recommended that I had the Hep B jab as I was considered to be in a high risk group.

If you're worried about being judged by the GUM for fucking escorts then don't be. Your records will be kept separate from your regular GP notes and I've never has any shit from admitting that I'm a punter.

If you have bareback sex or anal sex with prostitutes then you're most likely at a much higher risk. I suggest consulting your GUM for further advice if that's the case. Best cross your fingers too.

[Beamer]

Good summary TheOwl
  

[Picti]

I get tested quarterly. Blood test, piss test, and throat swab (I tell them regular RO and occasional rimming with multiple female partners; true). They also do a visual inspection and ask the relevant questions to check for anything the tests wouldn't detect, and we're done till next time. I also discuss whether they're experiencing any local spikes or patterns in STIs (patterns don't breach confidentiality) as risk will always fluctuate.

I've also had Hep B vaccination through work, and I've educated myself on the signs / presentation of STIs in case I encounter them on a WG. The latter isn't infallible but it's worth knowing as safe sex starts before the condom goes on.

[Shadow314]

Wondering if anyone here has tried External Link/Members Only in place of a routine check-up?  Get directed to it from some of the London based GUM clinic websites.
Not too sure about home testing, but seems easier than making an appointment or figuring out walk-in clinic times/locations.

 

[Jonestown]

Wondering if anyone here has tried External Link/Members Only in place of a routine check-up?  Get directed to it from some of the London based GUM clinic websites.
Not too sure about home testing, but seems easier than making an appointment or figuring out walk-in clinic times/locations.

I've used SHL twice with no problems. I went to the local walk in clinic and they asked if I had any symptoms, when I said no they told me that I could not get a clinic appointment and that I had to use the postal service. If you search on here for postal testing you'll find it has been discussed before.

[Picti]

The cutbacks from Councils funding STI clinic have made it more difficult to find a suitable discrete clinic. Leicester is now in a shopping mall.
They do the checks and say need to repeat HIV and syphilis in 3 months time. I guess that means no sex during that period at all?

I meant to add this in my post above. If Leicester is too busy and difficult to get an appointment, then I use Loughborough. They're connected anyway and Loughborough is a bit more discreet too.

[Shadow314]

I've used SHL twice with no problems. I went to the local walk in clinic and they asked if I had any symptoms, when I said no they told me that I could not get a clinic appointment and that I had to use the postal service. If you search on here for postal testing you'll find it has been discussed before.

Thanks, will have a read through