Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Testing and Screening
If you have symptomatic patients, in-person appointments are encouraged. Accommodate same day appointments when possible.
Chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis (reportable)
The chart below outlines current testing options for reportable sexually transmitted infections. 1st line indicates great test sensitivity; 2nd line options are less accurate because they are less sensitive.
| Site of exposure and / or symptoms | Chlamydia / Gonorrhea Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing (NAAT) | Syphilis Serology Testing |
|---|---|---|
| Penile | Urine NAAT (first line) Consider adding culture testing for gonorrhea if discharge present or for antimicrobial susceptibility testing. |
Not applicable |
| Vaginal or cervical | Vaginal or cervical (when pelvic exam is being done). NAAT (first line) If pelvic inflammatory disease is suspected, add cervical culture with any NAAT for antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Urine NAAT (Second line) |
Not applicable |
Receptive anal sex / rectal, and any of the following:
|
Rectal NAAT (whether asymptomatic or symptomatic at exposure sites) | Not applicable |
Oral sex on penis / pharyngeal and any of the following:
|
Pharyngeal NAAT (whether asymptomatic or symptomatic at exposure sites) | Not applicable |
| Genital lesions | Not applicable | 1. Syphilis serology |
| Oral and rectal lesions | Not applicable | 1. Syphilis serology testing |
*Cisgender and transgender men who have sex with men, including males who identify as gay, bisexual, queer, two-spirit or other men who have sex with men
Testing results from Public Health Ontario
Niagara Region Public Health doesn't have access to the lab results for your patients.
The Public Health Ontario laboratory works to get health care professionals test results in a timely manner. Learn about specific test information, including submitting samples and turnaround times or call their customer service at 1-877-604-4567.
Resources
- Canadian Sexually Transmitted Infections Guidelines
- Performing a brief patient history and STI risk assessment
- Public Health Ontario Bacterial STI Testing: Quick Reference for chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis
- Order resources to support your practice
Contact
Call the Health Care Provider Info-Line at 905-688-8248 ext. 7720, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. - noon and 1 - 4 p.m.
© Niagara Region - 1815 Sir Isaac Brock Way, Thorold, ON, L2V 4T7 - Phone: 905-980-6000, Toll-free: 1-800-263-7215
