Understanding STD Screening in Singapore
Singapore has a transparent, accessible framework for STD testing. Rates of common STDs including gonorrhoea and syphilis have increased in recent years, particularly among men who have sex with men (MSM). Early detection and treatment protects you and your partners — regular screening is a responsible, normal part of sexual health care.
Recommended STD Panel
| Test | What It Detects | Sample Type | Cost/Test (SGD, private) |
|---|---|---|---|
| HIV | 4th-gen antigen/antibody combo; conclusive at 45 days | Blood test | $60–$120 |
| Syphilis | RPR (screening) + TPHA (confirmatory); all stages | Blood test | $40–$80 |
| Gonorrhoea | NAAT — most sensitive; detects rectal + pharyngeal + urethral sites | Urine / swab | $60–$120 |
| Chlamydia | NAAT; most common bacterial STD globally | Urine / swab | $60–$120 |
| Hepatitis B | HBsAg (infection) + HBsAb (immunity) + HBcAb (prior exposure) | Blood test | $30–$60 |
| Hepatitis C | HCV antibody; reflexed to RNA PCR if reactive | Blood test | $50–$100 |
| Herpes (HSV-1/2) | IgG serology (past exposure); only useful if symptomatic | Blood test | $60–$100 |
| HPV / Cervical Screening | Women 25+: Pap smear OR HPV primary screening (recommended from 2021) | Cervical swab | $50–$150 |
| Mycoplasma genitalium | NAAT; urethritis/cervicitis not explained by GC/CT | Urine / swab | $60–$120 |
| Trichomonas vaginalis | NAAT; vaginal discharge in women | Vaginal swab | $50–$100 |
Sampling Locations for MSM
For men who have sex with men, gonorrhoea and chlamydia should be tested at all three anatomical sites relevant to your sexual practices:
- Urethral/urine: For insertive practices
- Rectal swab: For receptive anal sex — this is where most rectal GC/CT is found; urine misses it completely
- Pharyngeal (throat) swab: For oral sex — often asymptomatic; can transmit antimicrobial-resistant gonorrhoea
See our researched shortlist: subspecialty focus, credentials and clinic websites, checked against public records.
View the shortlist →A comprehensive STD panel in Singapore typically includes: HIV (4th-gen Ag/Ab), syphilis (RPR + TPHA), gonorrhoea (urine/swab NAAT), chlamydia (urine/swab NAAT), hepatitis B (HBsAg + HBsAb), hepatitis C (antibody), herpes simplex (HSV-1/2 IgG/IgM — only if symptoms), and HPV (for women via cervical screening). Trichomonas vaginalis NAAT is added for women. Mycoplasma genitalium NAAT is increasingly offered for symptoms without clear cause.
Sexually active individuals with multiple partners or new partners: every 3–6 months. Those in stable monogamous relationships who have both been tested: as needed for symptoms or new partners. Men who have sex with men (MSM): at least every 3 months for HIV, syphilis, gonorrhoea, and chlamydia (urine, rectal, and pharyngeal swabs based on sexual practices). Annual Pap smear/HPV cervical screening for women aged 25+.
Comprehensive STD panel (HIV, syphilis, gonorrhoea, chlamydia, Hep B, Hep C) at a private sexual health clinic: $200–$500. Individual tests are cheaper but a panel is better value for a full screen. Polyclinic and restructured hospital rates are subsidised. Some clinics offer packaged pricing — always clarify exactly what's included in the panel.
Yes. STD test results are confidential between you and your doctor. However, certain STDs are legally notifiable diseases in Singapore: HIV, gonorrhoea, syphilis, chlamydia (in specific settings), and hepatitis B/C. The notification is made by your healthcare provider to MOH, not by you, and is used for epidemiological tracking — not for legal prosecution.
Most bacterial STDs (gonorrhoea, chlamydia, syphilis) are curable with appropriate antibiotic treatment. Viral STDs (HIV, herpes, hepatitis B/C, HPV) are manageable but not curable — effective treatment greatly reduces health impact and transmission risk. Partner notification is important to prevent re-infection. A non-judgmental sexual health doctor will guide you through treatment and partner management.