STD/STI Testing & Treatment
Additional STI Testing
Additional testing may be available with the STI Clinician (Doctor, Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, etc.). These tests are not available when receiving testing only services.
We DO NOT test for urinary tract infections.
Herpes
Testing is performed by taking a sample (culture) of a sore or blister. Blood testing for herpes is not available. You must have a sore or blister to be tested.
Trichomoniasis (Trich)
We test both men and women for this STI. Symptoms may include penile and vaginal discharge, itching, and odor.
Genital Warts (HPV)
Diagnosed visually by STI Clinician. You must have active symptoms (bump, sore, etc.). We do not test for HPV.
Frequently Asked Questions About STI
Is there a charge for STI services?
No. STI and HIV testing are provided free of charge.
What do I need to bring to be seen in the STI Clinic?
The Durham County Health Department will not deny STI/HIV testing services to any person requesting them due to lack of documentation. If available, we kindly request identification, proof of income, and proof of insurance.
How long will my visit last?
When testing only the service will require 30 minutes or less. The STD Clinician visit will take about 1 hour; some services may require more than 1 hour. You should schedule enough time to include the registration process and laboratory services.
Can I make an appointment?
Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are accommodated on a first-come-first-served basis based on clinic availability. Please call to make an appointment at 919-560-7600. Due to the high volume of calls, please be patient with us as we return your call.
Is my visit private?
Your confidentiality is our first priority. Some communicable diseases are confidentially reportable by Federal and State laws. If you test positive for HIV or Syphilis you may be contacted by a local or State Disease Intervention Specialist. Your privacy will be maintained by all providers that handle your information.
I’m under 18, do I need my parent’s permission to be seen in the STI Clinic?
North Carolina law allows minors to consent for themselves for STI/HIV testing services.
How can I get my STI/HIV test results?
The clinic will contact any person who tests positive for an STI or HIV. Make sure you update your contact information at every visit. If you would like to have access to your patient portal to view test results you may ask registration staff to activate patient portal access that will allow you to view most test results. You may also leave a message for test results at 919-560-7600. To obtain paper copies of test results, please return to Clinic 6 and see a counselor.
I’m scared of coming alone, can a friend come with me during my visit?
While you are welcome to come to the clinic with a friend, partner, or family member, all STI visits will be conducted with only the patient present to ensure confidentiality (unless language interpretation is requested).
If I need medicine, how much does it cost?
The DCoDPH provides certain STI medications free of charge. Other medications may be available at a reduced rate based on your income. See the Pharmacy page for more information.
I tested positive for an STI at another location, can I get treatment at the DCoDPH?
YES. Please call 919-560-7600 to schedule an appointment for treatment. Please bring any documentation of your test results from your doctor with you to your visit.
What are Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)?
STIs are infections that spread through intimate heterosexual or homosexual contact. Anyone who has sexual contact with someone who is infected can get a sexually transmitted infection.
Can STIs be cured?
Depending on the type of STI, treatment is available. Many STIs can be cured. In some cases, the infection can be controlled but not cured. It is essential to treat all infected or exposed sex partners before resuming sexual relations. Otherwise, the cycle of infection will continue.
Why is it important to know about STIs?
STIs can have serious consequences, including infertility, adverse effects on unborn children, and even death. It is important to diagnose and treat STIs, both to preserve the health of the individual and to prevent the spread of disease to others.
Where can I get tested for STIs?
In Clinic 6 at Durham County Public Health
Gonorrhea and Chlamydia
Important information if you have gonorrhea or chlamydia
How to get treated:
You can get treated for free at Clinic 6 of the Durham County Department of Public Health. Call us at 919-560-7600 to schedule an appointment.
Click here for a list of other places to get treated.
Why get treated?
If you delay or don’t get treated for Gonorrhea or Chlamydia, the infection can get worse and cause long-term problems.
- In women, an untreated STI can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can cause problems like damage to the reproductive system, ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy outside the uterus), long term scarring, and pain. It can cause problems becoming pregnant in the future.
- In men, an untreated STI can cause long periods of pain in the groin or testicles or even potentially make him sterile. Having an untreated STI can also increase your chance of catching HIV.
Tell your partner(s) to get treated.
You can tell your partner to call the clinic for a priority appointment at 919-560-7600.
Why tell my partner?
The infection will not go away without medicine. If your partner does not get treated you can get the infection again. Your partner may not know they have an STI, because many times there are no symptoms.
How do I tell my partner?
Follow this link for helpful tips on talking to your partner.
Retest in 3 months
You may get a new infection and not know.
You can retest for free in Clinic 6. You will receive a text message in three months to remind you to return to the clinic to get tested.
Click link for a list of additional places to retest.