What is the MSM2 STI Screening Profile?

The MSM2 STI Screening Profile is an extended, high-sensitivity sexual health test that combines urine PCR testingwith blood serology. It detects common, emerging, and often-missed sexually transmitted infections in a single comprehensive profile.

PCR testing identifies the genetic material of infections present in the urinary tract, while blood tests detect systemic and blood-borne infections. This combination provides a deeper and more complete assessment than standard STI panels.

Why do I need an MSM2 STI Screening Profile?

Some STIs are frequently missed on basic screening but can still cause symptoms, transmission, or long-term complications. This profile is designed for higher-risk or more thorough screening.

You may benefit from this test if you:

• Want broader STI coverage than standard panels

• Have ongoing or unexplained urogenital symptoms

• Have multiple or new sexual partners

• Engage in condomless sex

• Have previously tested negative but still have symptoms

• Want reassurance after potential exposure

• Require routine comprehensive sexual health screening

Extended PCR testing increases detection of infections that may otherwise go undiagnosed.

Benefits of the test

1. Extensive STI coverage
   Screens for bacterial, viral, and blood-borne infections.

2. High-sensitivity PCR detection
   Identifies infections even at low levels.

3. Includes emerging and atypical STIs
   Covers Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma species.

4. Detects asymptomatic infections
   Many infections cause no obvious symptoms.

5. Combines urine and blood testing
   Provides multi-system assessment.

6. Reduces false reassurance
   Broader testing lowers missed diagnoses.

7. Suitable for routine or risk-based screening
   Can be repeated based on exposure risk.

8. Single coordinated profile
   Avoids multiple separate tests.

Step-by-step: How we offer testing

Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)

• Choose your nearest UK clinic

• Provide a urine sample

• Blood sample taken by a clinician

• Samples sent to the laboratory for PCR and serology analysis

Home or hotel testing (+£60, UK-wide)

• Urine collection kit provided

• Blood sample collected by a mobile phlebotomist

• Samples returned for laboratory testing

Your results explained

Negative results

• No STI detected in urine or blood

• Suggests no evidence of current infection

• Repeat screening may still be advised based on exposure risk

Positive results

• One or more infections detected

• Indicates active or recent infection

• Supports prompt treatment, follow-up, and partner notification

Some infections may be present without symptoms or only detectable via PCR.

Biomarkers included

Urine PCR

• Chlamydia

• Gonorrhoea

• Mycoplasma genitalium

• Ureaplasma species

• Trichomonas vaginalis

• Gardnerella vaginalis

• Herpes Simplex Virus Type I (HSV-1)

• Herpes Simplex Virus Type II (HSV-2)

Blood Serology

• HIV 1 & 2 with p24 antigen

• Syphilis IgG/IgM

• Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)

• Hepatitis C antibodies