STIs: signs, risks and when to get checked in Kenya
By My Wellness Health, Editorial team · Reviewed by the My Wellness Health clinical team on 7 Oct 2026 · Updated 7 Oct 2026
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections passed on during sex, such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis and HIV. Most cause no symptoms, so testing is the only way to know. When signs do appear, they can include unusual discharge from the vagina, penis or anus; pain or burning when urinating; and sores, blisters or warts around the genitals or mouth.
Most cause no symptoms. World Health Organization.
| Who should get checked | How it is checked | How we help | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anyone with a new partner or sex without a condom: test, even with no symptoms | Urine test, swab or blood test, depending on the infection | Confidential sexual and urinary health check | Confidential sexual and urinary health check, KES 500 |
STIs: signs, risks and when to get checked in Kenya: your questions answered
Frequently asked questions
What is STIs?
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections passed on during sex, such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis and HIV. Most cause no symptoms, so testing is the only way to know.
What are the signs of STIs?
Often no symptoms at all. Unusual discharge from the vagina, penis or anus. Pain or burning when urinating. Sores, blisters or warts around the genitals or mouth. Itching or pain in the genital area. Pain during sex, or bleeding between periods. A rash, including on the palms or soles, with syphilis.
Who is most at risk?
Sex without a condom. A new partner, or more than one partner. A partner who has an STI or other partners. A past STI. Drugs or alcohol around sex.
When should I see a doctor?
Severe pelvic pain with fever, a painful swollen testicle, or a possible HIV exposure in the last 72 hours needs care the same day. HIV PEP works best within 72 hours.
How is STIs checked?
With urine test, swab or blood test, depending on the infection. Anyone with a new partner or sex without a condom: test, even with no symptoms.
What happens after a high-risk result?
A confidential test for the right infections. Treatment, which for common bacterial STIs is antibiotics. Telling partners so they can be tested and treated. A follow-up check after treatment. A risk result is not a diagnosis.
What should I ask my doctor?
Which tests do I need? How long after exposure should I test? Do my partners need treatment too? Should I take PrEP or PEP?
What does it cost?
HIV testing is free at public facilities in Kenya, and HIV self-test kits are sold at pharmacies.
How can My Wellness Health help?
The confidential sexual and urinary health check asks about symptoms, recent partners, condom use and past infections, then points you to the right next step: an STI test, a urine test, or same-day review if the infection may have spread. It also offers anonymous partner notification. It costs KES 500. A care navigator calls you back within 2 hours (Monday to Saturday, 8am to 8pm) to book what you need at a facility that suits your budget and location.
This page is health information to help you understand risks and next steps. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a consultation with a qualified clinician. My Wellness Health is not a diagnostic service: we help you understand your risk and connect you with the right screening and care. In an emergency, go to the nearest hospital or call 999 or 112. If you are thinking of harming yourself, call Befrienders Kenya on +254 722 178 177 or the Kenya Red Cross toll-free line 1199.