Sexual Health Profile II

The Sexual Health Profile II is a comprehensive screening panel designed for anyone who wants a clear, confidential picture of their sexual health status. It is suitable for individuals with new or multiple partners, those who have had unprotected intercourse, people experiencing symptoms such as discharge, discomfort, or unusual lesions, and anyone preparing for a new relationship or fertility planning. The panel combines a simple blood sample with a swab to detect the most common bacterial, viral, and bloodborne sexually transmitted infections.

The blood sample is analysed using serological and molecular techniques, including chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) hybridisation, to identify antibodies, antigens, and genetic material from the organisms listed below. The swab is used to detect bacterial DNA directly from the site of potential infection, providing high sensitivity and specificity.

Bacterial Infections
- Chlamydia trachomatis: the most commonly reported bacterial STI in the UK, which can cause infertility if left untreated.
- Neisseria gonorrhoeae: the bacterium responsible for gonorrhoea, which can infect the genital tract, rectum, and throat.

Bloodborne Viruses
- HIV Ab + p24 Ag: combined antibody and antigen test for HIV-1 and HIV-2, enabling early detection after exposure.
- Syphilis Ab: treponemal antibody screen for Treponema pallidum, the bacterium that causes syphilis.
- HBs Ag: hepatitis B surface antigen, indicating current infection.
- HBs Ab: hepatitis B surface antibody, indicating immunity through vaccination or past infection.
- HCV Ab: hepatitis C antibody, screening for past or present infection.

Why it matters
Many sexually transmitted infections are asymptomatic, meaning you can carry and transmit them without knowing. Early detection allows for simple, effective treatment, prevents long-term complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and certain cancers, and helps protect your partners. This profile gives you and your clinician a reliable baseline for informed decisions about your sexual health.