When Should You Get Tested After Sexual Exposure?
Last updated: Oct 2025 • Return to STD Testing Hub
Why "window period" matters
The window period is the time between exposure to an infection and when it becomes detectable on a test. Testing too early may give a false negative.
Recommended testing timelines
- HIV: HIV RNA (PCR) from 7–10 days; ELISA / 4th gen reliable at 3–4 weeks.
- Syphilis: VDRL/TPHA usually positive 3–6 weeks after infection.
- Gonorrhea & Chlamydia: NAAT swab/urine tests can detect 1–2 weeks after exposure.
- Herpes: Blood antibody tests take weeks; swab tests work if lesions appear earlier.
What if you are unsure?
If exposure was very recent, it is safe to test immediately for baseline and repeat later as advised by your doctor.