FAQ

Our home-based STI testing service allows you to discreetly test for sexually transmitted infections from the comfort of your home. You’ll receive a test kit with clear instructions on sample collection. After collecting your sample, send it back to our partner laboratory for analysis. 

Detailed instructions are included in the test kit. Follow the step-by-step guide for sample collection. Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Trichomonas vaginalis are tested based on a urine sample. HIV, Syphilis and Hepatitis C are tested base on fingerstick blood sample. Once collected, secure the sample in the provided packaging and return it to us using the pre-paid shipping label.

We provide detailed instructions for use for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea and Trichomonas urine based PCR test in English, German, French and Italian.

We provide detailed instructions for use for HIV, Syphilis and Hepatitis C test in English, German, French and Italian.

Yes, we prioritize your privacy. The kit is sent in a neutral envelope to you. All information and test results are handled with the utmost confidentiality. We use secure and encrypted communication channels to ensure the privacy of your data. All client data is stored in Switzerland.

Our partner laboratory utilizes state-of-the-art technology to provide accurate results. For the detection of Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae and trichomonas vaginalis the modern PCR technology is used. A sample of your urine is sufficient for this analysis. For the detection of HIV, Syphilis and Hepatitis C the immunoassay technology is used. Fingerstick blood is required in this case. All tests are CE-IVD compliant. However, no test is infallible. If you have concerns about your results, please contact our customer support team for assistance.

Once the laboratory receives your sample, the analysis typically takes 1-2 days. You will be notified promptly through your preferred method of communication (email, secure portal, etc.).

If your results are positive, we recommend consulting with a healthcare professional for further guidance and potential treatment options. Our customer support team can provide assistance and resources to help you through the process. We have a good co-operation with several licensed doctors that are located in the Canton of Zurich. If you wish, we can provide the contact details and these licensed doctors can guide you through the process of treatment. In most cases treatment is uncomplicated and effective.

Yes, our website employs the latest security measures to ensure the safety of your personal and financial information. All online transactions are encrypted, providing a secure and private experience. Our partner for payment processing is PostFinance AG.

We understand that receiving positive results can be challenging. We provide access to experienced doctors that provide counseling services for individuals who want to get treated. Reach out to our customer support for more information.

Our customer support team is available 9:00 – 17:00 Mo – Fr. You can reach us through phone +41 44 620 17 26 or email info@360-health.ch. We’re here to assist you with any questions or concerns.

Yes, we adhere to all local and national regulations governing the provision of STI testing services, data privacy, and laboratory practices. For any additional questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact our customer support team.

This page is operated by:

City Integration Switzerland GmbH
360-health.ch
Rigiweg 21a
CH-6343 Holzhäusern
info@360-health.ch
Tel: +41 44 620 17 26

Our partner for laboratory analysis:

Immunoassay analysis:
A-Labs Switzerland AG
Kilchbergstrasse 6
CH-8134 Adliswil
a-labs-switzerland@hin.ch
Tel: +41 44 442 00 09
Swissmedic authorization number:
512603-102730241

PCR analysis:
Laboratoire Kessler SA
Avenue de la Gare 48
CH-1920 Martigny
labokessler@hin.ch
Tel: + 41 27 722 87 55
Swissmedic authorisation number:
512634-102667300

Usually the Health Insurance doesn’t cover cost for analysis that were requested by private persons directly.

You will receive a secure E-mail as soon as the results are available directly from the laboratory (HIN standard).

The three bacterial infections (chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis) and one parasitic STI (trichomoniasis) are generally curable with existing single-dose regimens of antibiotics.

For Herpes and HIV, the most effective medications available are antivirals that can modulate the course of the disease, though they cannot cure the disease.

For Hepatitis C safe and highly effective treatments are available, which cure the disease, although the treatment may take longer.

STIs such as gonorrhoea, chlamydia or trichomoniasis are major causes of pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility in women. Untreated trichomoniasis increases your risk of becoming infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) if you’re exposed to the virus.

Untreated HIV can progress to AIDS, often after many years.

Untreated Hepatitis C can seriously damage your liver. You can also develop issues with your blood pressure or sugar, skin, nerves, muscles, and joints. It could also impact your heart.

Diagnostic Window for HIV

• • Rapid immunoassay tests can detect antibodies only after 3–12 weeks post-infection.
  • They are not suitable for detecting HIV during the acute phase (early stage of infection), as antibodies have not yet been produced.

Diagnostic Window for syphilis

• Primary Syphilis (Initial Stage):
  • The diagnostic window begins about 2–4 weeks after exposure when a painless sore (chancre) typically appears at the site of infection.
• Secondary Syphilis:During this stage (4–10 weeks after exposure), both treponemal and non-treponemal tests are typically positive due to the strong immune response.
• Latent Syphilis:
  • In this stage (after symptoms subside), treponemal tests usually remain positive for life, while non-treponemal test titers may decrease over time.

Diagnostic window for hepatitis B + C

HBsAg (Hepatitis B Surface Antigen):

• • Earliest marker of acute infection.
  • Detectable 4–6 weeks after exposure and can persist in chronic infections.
  • Indicates the presence of the virus and infectivity.
    
    

HCV Antibody Test (Anti-HCV)

• Detects antibodies produced by the immune system against HCV.
• Window Period:Antibodies typically appear 6–12 weeks after exposure, but in some cases, it may take up to 6 months.

Diagnostic window for Chlamydia trachomatis

• PCR can detect Chlamydia DNA 1–2 weeks after exposure, making it highly useful for early diagnosis.

Diagnostic window for Neisseria gonorrhea

What is Chlamydia trachomatis?

• Chlamydia trachomatis is a sexually transmitted bacterium that can infect the genital tract, rectum, throat, and eyes.
• It is often asymptomatic but can lead to serious complications, such as:
  • In women: Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, and ectopic pregnancy.
  • In men: Epididymitis, prostatitis, or infertility.
  • In newborns: Neonatal conjunctivitis or pneumonia (if transmitted during childbirth).

Why Use PCR for Detection?

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is a molecular diagnostic method that detects the genetic material (DNA) of the bacterium.

Advantages of PCR for Chlamydia Testing:

1. High Sensitivity and Specificity:
   • Detects very small amounts of bacterial DNA, even in asymptomatic infections.
2. Rapid Results:
   • Results are available within hours after sample processing.
3. Non-invasive Samples:
   • Can be performed on urine or swabs (e.g., vaginal, cervical, urethral).
4. Concurrent Testing:
   • PCR can simultaneously test for other STIs like Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

• Urine Samples:
  • First-catch urine is commonly used for non-invasive testing.

Timing and Accuracy

• PCR can detect Chlamydia 1–2 weeks after exposure, making it highly useful for early diagnosis.

When Should PCR Testing Be Done?

• Routine Screening:
  • Sexually active men and women.
  • Individuals with multiple sexual partners.
• Symptomatic Individuals:
  • Women: Vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, or bleeding after intercourse.
  • Men: Urethral discharge or painful urination.
• After Known Exposure:
  • If exposed to a partner diagnosed with Chlamydia.
• During Pregnancy:
  • To prevent complications such as neonatal infection.

PCR Test Results

• Positive Result:
  • Indicates the presence of Chlamydia trachomatis DNA and an active infection.
• Negative Result:
  • No Chlamydia DNA detected. However, repeat testing may be recommended in cases of persistent symptoms or high-risk exposure.

Treatment After PCR Detection

• Antibiotics:
  • First-line treatments:
    • Azithromycin: Single dose (1 g orally).
    • Doxycycline: 100 mg twice daily for 7 days.
  • Alternatives (if allergic):
    • Erythromycin or levofloxacin.
• Partner Notification and Treatment:
  • Sexual partners should also be tested and treated to prevent reinfection.
• Abstinence:
  • Avoid sexual contact until treatment is completed and symptoms resolve.

Advantages of Using PCR for Chlamydia Detection

• Detects infections in asymptomatic individuals, reducing the risk of complications.
• Non-invasive sampling (e.g., urine).
• High accuracy reduces the likelihood of false negatives or positives.

Summary

• PCR for Chlamydia trachomatis is the gold standard for diagnosis, offering high sensitivity and specificity.
• It is recommended for routine screening, symptomatic patients, and after known exposure.
• Early diagnosis through PCR allows for timely treatment, preventing complications and further transmission.

Neisseria gonorrhoeae

PCR detects the genetic material (DNA) of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, making it a reliable diagnostic tool.

Advantages of PCR Testing
– High Sensitivity and Specificity.
– Can detect even small amounts of bacterial DNA.
– Results are typically available within hours after sample processing.
– Urine samples or swabs make testing easier for patients.

Diagnostic window for Neisseria gonorrhea

PCR can detect Neisseria gonorrhoeae DNA as early as 2–5 days after exposure

Indications for Testing
– Routine Screening
– Especially for individuals at higher risk (e.g., multiple sexual partners, history of STIs).
– Symptomatic Individuals
– Women: Increased vaginal discharge, pain during urination, or intermenstrual bleeding.
– Men: Urethral discharge, painful urination, or testicular pain.
– Known Exposure
– If a sexual partner is diagnosed with gonorrhea.
– During Pregnancy: To prevent complications such as neonatal conjunctivitis.
–  Extragenital Infections
– Testing may be done for rectal, pharyngeal, or ocular symptoms.

Treatment After PCR Detection

– Antibiotic Therapy
– Treatment is tailored to local resistance patterns. The current WHO recommendations include:
– Ceftriaxone: 500 mg intramuscularly as a single dose.
– Azithromycin: 1 g orally as a single dose (in some cases, combined with ceftriaxone).
– Antimicrobial Resistance:
– Neisseria gonorrhoeae is known for developing resistance to antibiotics, so susceptibility testing may be necessary for recurrent or resistant infections.
– Partner Treatment:
– Sexual partners should also be tested and treated to prevent reinfection.
– Abstinence:
– Avoid sexual contact until treatment is completed and symptoms resolve.

Advantages of PCR for Neisseria gonorrhoeae Detection

– Detects infections in both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals.
– Non-invasive sampling options increase patient compliance.
– Provides results quickly, allowing for timely treatment.
– Can detect extragenital infections (rectal, pharyngeal).

– PCR for Neisseria gonorrhoeae is a highly sensitive and specific method for detecting gonorrhea in urogenital, rectal, pharyngeal, and ocular samples.
– It is recommended for both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals and can detect infections as early as 2–5 days after exposure.
– Treatment should be initiated promptly based on PCR results, and resistance patterns should be monitored where applicable.

PCR testing, combined with appropriate treatment, plays a critical role in controlling gonorrhea and preventing complications.