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STI Testing in Lagos: A Complete Guide to Confidential Screening, Packages & Treatment
mascothealthcare
A complete, confidential guide to STI testing in Lagos — who should test, what the common infections are, test packages and prices, window periods, and treatment. Same-day results at Mascot Healthcare, Akoka, Yaba.

STI Testing in Lagos: A Complete Guide to Confidential Screening, Packages & Treatment

From Mascot Healthcare Clinic, Akoka (Yaba), Lagos

Hello Friend! Deciding to get tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is one of the most responsible things you can do for yourself and your partner. Yet many people in Lagos put it off — unsure of what to test for, worried about privacy, or simply not knowing where to start. This guide answers all of those questions in plain language, so you can walk in (or book online) feeling informed and at ease.

Why STI Testing Matters — Even When You Feel Fine

The single most important fact about STIs is this: most of them cause no symptoms at all, especially in the early stages. Chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, hepatitis B and even syphilis can live quietly in the body for months or years while still being passed on to partners — and, if left untreated, can lead to infertility, organ damage, pregnancy complications or certain cancers.

Because you cannot feel or see most infections, testing is the only way to know your status. The good news: the majority of STIs are either completely curable or very manageable once detected.

Who Should Get Tested, and How Often?

Consider an STI screen if you:

  • Have a new sexual partner, or more than one partner
  • Have had sex without a condom
  • Are planning marriage or pregnancy
  • Have any symptoms such as unusual discharge, sores, itching or painful urination
  • Have a partner who has tested positive for an infection
  • Simply want peace of mind
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As a general rule, a yearly screen is sensible for anyone who is sexually active, and a fresh test is wise whenever you change partners.

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The Common STIs We Test For

  • HIV — manageable for life with treatment; early detection is key
  • Chlamydia & Gonorrhea — bacterial, curable with antibiotics
  • Syphilis — bacterial, curable, but dangerous if ignored
  • Hepatitis B & C — affect the liver; hepatitis B is vaccine-preventable
  • Herpes (HSV 1 & 2) — manageable with antivirals
  • HPV — linked to genital warts and cervical cancer; vaccine-preventable

Our STI Test Packages

At Mascot Healthcare we keep things simple with three clear packages, each including pre- and post-test counseling:

  • Essential — HIV I/II, Syphilis, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C
  • Comprehensive — everything in Essential plus Chlamydia and Gonorrhea swab tests
  • Full Wellness — everything in Comprehensive plus Herpes 1 & 2 testing

You can see exactly what each package contains, along with current pricing, on our STI test packages page. Not sure which one fits your situation? Our team will help you choose during a confidential chat.

What to Expect at Your Visit

Your privacy comes first. A typical visit involves a short, judgment-free conversation about your concerns, a simple blood sample and/or swab depending on your package, and clear guidance on what happens next. Most results are ready within 24–48 hours, and same-day testing is available. If anything comes back positive, we explain it calmly and start treatment right away — no lectures, no shame.

When Can You Test? Understanding Window Periods

Every infection has a "window period" — the gap between exposure and when a test can reliably detect it. Testing too early can give a false reassurance. As a rough guide:

  • Chlamydia & gonorrhea: usually detectable from about 1–2 weeks
  • HIV (4th-generation test): often reliable from about 4–6 weeks, with a confirmatory test at 3 months
  • Syphilis: typically detectable from about 3–6 weeks
  • Hepatitis B: usually detectable from about 6 weeks
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We cover this in detail in our guide on how long after exposure you should test.

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Treatment — Not Just Testing

A diagnosis is only useful if treatment follows. Bacterial infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis are cured with the right antibiotics. Herpes outbreaks are controlled with antivirals. HIV and hepatitis B are managed long-term so you can live a full, healthy life. We provide treatment on-site and help with confidential partner notification so reinfection doesn't undo your progress.

Continue Reading

Getting tested is quick, confidential and one of the kindest things you can do for yourself and the people you love. We are right beside UNILAG at 52 Sholanke Street, Akoka, and walk-ins are welcome.

View STI Test Packages & Prices

Medically reviewed by Dr. Lawal Taiye (MBBS, Ibadan) — Mascot Healthcare Clinic, Akoka, Lagos. This article is for general education and does not replace a personal consultation.