Private STI testing at AristoGP is a short, swab-only appointment with consultant gynaecologist Dr Anastasia Mermigka at our clinic at 1-5 Portpool Lane, London EC1N 7UU, a few minutes from Chancery Lane and Farringdon. There is no blood draw, no referral and no need to be registered with an NHS GP.
We offer two PCR swab panels, both processed by The Doctors Laboratory (TDL) and both priced at £290. One is designed for routine screening; the other is designed for women who have symptoms such as discharge, odour or irritation.
Two swab panels, one price
| Infection | B2 Full STI Panel | B4 STI & Vaginal Infection Panel |
|---|---|---|
| Chlamydia | ✓ | ✓ |
| Gonorrhoea | ✓ | ✓ |
| Mycoplasma genitalium | ✓ | ✓ |
| Ureaplasma | ✓ | ✓ |
| Trichomonas vaginalis | ✓ | ✓ |
| Gardnerella (bacterial vaginosis) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Herpes simplex I and II | ✓ | – |
| Vaginal swab culture (thrush and other bacteria) | – | ✓ |
| Price | £290 | £290 |
Which panel should I choose?
- B2 Full STI Panel is for screening: a new partner, before stopping condoms, or peace of mind when you feel well. It includes herpes.
- B4 STI & Vaginal Infection Panel is for women with symptoms: unusual discharge, odour, itching, irritation or discomfort. It adds a vaginal swab culture, which looks for thrush and other bacteria that are common causes of these symptoms.
If you have symptoms and would like them assessed properly as well as tested, a gynaecology consultation (£200) may be more useful, with swabs taken during the same visit.
What happens at the appointment
The appointment takes about 15 minutes. Dr Mermigka takes a brief history, explains the test and takes the swab, or you can take a vaginal swab yourself if you prefer. The sample is sent to TDL the same day. No blood is taken.
Your results
Results are usually back within 2 to 5 working days. They return to Dr Mermigka, who contacts you with the outcome. If anything is positive, she explains what it means, the treatment options and whether a partner should also be tested, and a follow-up appointment can be arranged if needed.
Blood tests for HIV, syphilis and hepatitis
HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B and C need a blood test, which is not taken at the clinic. If you would like them, Dr Mermigka can request them from our laboratory, The Doctors Laboratory (TDL). You have your blood taken at TDL Patient Reception, 76 Wimpole Street, W1 (walk-in, Monday to Saturday), and the results come back to her. We recommend a follow-up appointment to go through them together.
When to test
Most infections on these panels are reliably detected from about two weeks after exposure. If you test sooner, a repeat test may be advised. You can also be tested free of charge at NHS sexual health clinics; we offer a private alternative with a consultant, quick appointments and a single point of contact for your results.
Seek urgent care through NHS 111 or A&E if you have severe pelvic or abdominal pain, fever, or heavy bleeding. These need prompt assessment rather than a screening test.
Fees
- B2 Full STI Panel (7 PCR, incl. herpes), swab only, 15 minutes: £290
- B4 STI & Vaginal Infection Panel (6 PCR + swab culture), swab only, 15 minutes: £290
- Gynaecology consultation if you have symptoms, 45 minutes: £200
See all services and fees.
Common questions
Is there a blood test?
No. Both panels are swab-only. HIV, syphilis and hepatitis need a blood test, which Dr Mermigka can request from TDL if you want them; blood is taken at TDL Patient Reception, 76 Wimpole Street.
How long do results take?
Usually 2 to 5 working days. Dr Mermigka contacts you with the results and explains anything that needs action.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can book directly, and you do not need to be registered with an NHS GP.
Is it confidential?
Yes. Your results are shared only with you, and not with your NHS GP unless you ask us to.
Which panel is right for me?
Choose B2 for screening when you feel well; it includes herpes. Choose B4 if you have discharge, odour, itching or irritation; it adds a vaginal culture for thrush and other bacteria.
Can I test during my period?
Light bleeding does not usually affect the swab, but if you are bleeding heavily it is better to rebook for a few days later.
What happens after the assessment?
After your assessment, the doctor will explain the findings and guide you on the most appropriate next steps. Depending on what is found, this may include monitoring, further tests, a prescription, treatment we can offer at the clinic, or referral to another specialist or service. Not every condition can be treated at AristoGP, and an appointment does not guarantee a particular treatment or prescription.