Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are considered cured after taking the recommended treatment correctly. Retesting is recommended for some infections, and some tests will remain positive for life after infection.
Chlamydia
Retesting after receiving treatment for an uncomplicated chlamydia infection is not typically recommended or required. Exceptions to this may include:
If you had any complications of infection, e.g. pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
If you are pregnant
If you had a rectal infection
If you still have symptoms
If you did not complete the recommended treatment
Trichomoniasis
Retesting after receiving treatment for an uncomplicated trichomoniasis infection is not typically recommended or required. Exceptions to this may include:
If you had any complications of infection, e.g. pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
If you are pregnant
If you still have symptoms
If you did not complete the recommended treatment
Gonorrhoea
Retesting after receiving treatment for a gonorrhoea infection is usually recommended 1 to 3 weeks after completing treatment. Your healthcare provider can advise you when to retest.
Mycoplasma Genitalium
Retesting after receiving treatment for a mycoplasma genitalium infection is usually recommended 1 to 4 weeks after completing treatment. Your healthcare provider can advise you when to retest.
Syphilis
Retesting after receiving treatment for a syphilis infection is usually recommended 6 and 12 months after completing treatment. This is to ensure the levels of the syphilis bacteria have decreased satisfactorily and you are no longer infectious. Note that preliminary tests for syphilis usually remain positive for life after a syphilis infection (even if you have been treated). Your healthcare provider can advise you on when to retest.
Hepatitis B
Many people do not require any specific treatment for hepatitis B. Retesting is usually recommended, but the timing depends on your individual circumstances. Note that preliminary tests for hepatitis B can remain positive for life after an infection. Your healthcare provider can advise you on when to retest.
Hepatitis C
Retesting after receiving treatment for hepatitis C infection is usually recommended, but the timing depends on your individual circumstances. Your healthcare provider can advise you on when to retest.
HIV
If you have tested positive for HIV, you will likely be required to take antiretroviral medication for the rest of your life. Regular follow-up and testing are required lifelong, and you should abstain from sex until your healthcare provider informs you otherwise.