STI / STD Testing in Gion-Shijo, Kyoto

Pain when passing urine, unusual discharge, sores or a new genital rash can have different causes. Many STIs cause no noticeable symptoms. Testing may be worth discussing after a possible exposure or if a partner has an infection; appearance or symptoms alone cannot tell you which infection, if any, is present. “STD” is another commonly used term when looking for this care. [3]

If you may have been exposed to HIV within the past 72 hours, seek urgent medical advice about post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). It needs to start within that time, and earlier is better. Contact an emergency department or a service that provides PEP promptly; do not wait for a routine test result. [6]

A genital test and a throat test check different sites. For example, a urine test for gonorrhea does not establish whether there is a throat infection. Tell the clinician which sites may have been exposed, including through oral sex. A larger package is not automatically the right choice for everyone. [4]

Chlamydia and gonorrhea testing: genital and throat test sets

The following fees are for sets containing both chlamydia and gonorrhea tests, rather than a separate fee for each infection. All prices include tax. [1, 2]

“4-test” means two infections tested at two body sites. It does not mean four different infections. A negative result at one site does not cover an untested site.

Broader test packages

These are the clinic’s named packages. Compare the actual contents, rather than choosing only by the name or price. The menu also includes tests for organisms associated with other genital conditions; not every listed organism is an STI. [1, 2, 9]

The two ¥27,000 packages are different. Trichomonas is listed in the STD test set, while Candida is listed in the Standard package. The names “Perfect” and “Bridal Perfect” do not mean that every infection is tested for or that a negative result guarantees there is no infection.

Individual blood tests

These are separate test options. The listed HIV test is an antibody test; it should not be assumed to be an antigen/antibody combination test or a nucleic acid test. [1, 2, 5]

The syphilis option pairs two blood tests, named RPR and TPHA. HBs antigen means hepatitis B surface antigen, a part of the virus. HCV antibody means an antibody to the hepatitis C virus. The names describe what is being tested. [1, 2]

When a test can detect an infection depends on the infection, test type and time since exposure. An early negative result may not exclude infection. For HIV, this interval is called the window period. Discuss the date of the possible exposure and whether another test may be needed. [5, 7]

When you receive the result is a separate matter. Check the expected turnaround and how results will be explained when arranging testing, especially if you will soon leave Kyoto. An estimated procedure time is not a promise of a final result within that time.

An HIV screening result that is positive needs confirmatory testing; it is not, by itself, a confirmed diagnosis. Further assessment and care depend on the findings. A testing fee should not be read as a fee for all subsequent treatment. [5, 7]

Testing and treatment are separate items. The following are Beyond Clinic’s listed treatment prices, not a promise that the same medicine or course is suitable for every person. No dose, treatment duration or guaranteed number of visits is implied. [1, 2]

These prices apply to a usual course of treatment as described by the clinic. Additional charges may arise depending on the course of care. These are self-pay services, outside Japanese health insurance coverage. Benefits vary, and treatment can involve side effects and risks; discuss these with the doctor before proceeding. [1]

Blood collection can cause brief discomfort or bruising. An IV infusion can also cause pain or bruising where the needle is inserted. Antibiotics can cause nausea, diarrhoea or an allergic reaction; the risks of any prescribed medicine depend on the product and your health. Tell the clinician about previous medicine allergies and discuss the risks before treatment. [10, 11, 12]

Follow the instructions for the treatment prescribed to you. If an infection is found, discuss whether partners need assessment and when it is appropriate to resume sexual contact. Improvement in symptoms alone should not be used to decide that care is complete. [3, 4]

Can I consider testing if I feel well?

Yes. Some infections cause no symptoms. A possible exposure or a partner’s result can still be a reason to seek advice about testing. [3]

Does the ¥5,500 chlamydia and gonorrhea set include HIV?

No. The genital and throat ¥5,500 sets each cover chlamydia and gonorrhea at the specified site. The individual HIV antibody test is a separate ¥5,500 item; HIV is also included in certain packages shown above. [1]

Can I receive my results on the same day?

Please check the turnaround for the particular tests before making travel or treatment plans. The time needed to collect a sample and the time needed to obtain and explain a result are different.

Can I have the appointment in English?

Please contact the clinic to check current language support for booking, consultation, medication instructions and results before visiting. An English guide does not guarantee that every part of a visit is available in English.

Is the price shown the total for testing and treatment?

The tables list separate test and treatment items. Treatment prices are subject to the additional-charge condition above. Confirm the planned tests, treatment and expected total before proceeding. [1]

Beyond Clinic is on the third floor of GARNET BLDG Gion Nawate, 99-5 Sueyoshicho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0085. The official access guide gives directions from Exit 6 of Keihan Gion-Shijo Station. [8]

• Hours: 16:00–23:00; last reception at 22:00.
• Closed: Sundays, national holidays and Mondays.
• Telephone: 075-600-0600.

It can help to note when an exposure or symptoms occurred, which body sites are involved, and any previous test results. Check appointment details and language support before your visit.

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