For Health Professionals
Sexual health check & cervical screening
Key things to know
A sexual health check is an assessment conducted by a health professional to identify sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and related issues. This typically involves blood, urine, and swab tests.
Many individuals with STIs are asymptomatic, yet can still transmit infections. Untreated STIs can lead to long-term health complications, making screening an important part of preconception care.
Cervical screening is also considered a key component of preconception health checks. This test detects human papillomavirus (HPV) and helps reduce the risk of cervical cancer, supporting both the health of the parent and future pregnancy outcomes.
Support your consumers to access a sexual health check before trying for a baby.
Resources
Access these resources to support conversations:
- StopTheRiseofSTIs – supports learning around Sexual Health and Sexually Transmitted Infections
- To find a place to have STI testing – https://www.stoptherise.initiatives.qld.gov.au/sti-testing
- 13HealthWebtest – a free test for genital chlamydia and gonorrhoea that can be ordered online by Queenslanders 16 years and older. It is confidential, and you don’t need a Medicare card to order it.