FAQ – Syphilis self-test

1. General information

How do I recognize syphilis?
In the early stage, a small, painless sore (chancre) often appears on the penis, vagina, anus, or mouth. Later, symptoms may include fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and a non-itchy rash on the palms and soles.

What are the symptoms of syphilis in men and women?
In men, the first sore is usually on the penis or around the anus. In women, it often appears on or inside the vagina or cervix and may go unnoticed. Later on, fever, rash, or wart-like bumps can develop.

What does a syphilis rash look like?
Syphilis often causes non-itchy reddish spots on the palms and soles, and sometimes on the trunk or limbs. Moist, wart-like bumps can occur around the genitals or anus.

Is syphilis dangerous if left untreated?
Yes. Without treatment, syphilis can affect organs such as the heart, brain, and eyes. During pregnancy, infection can seriously harm the unborn child.

Can I have syphilis without symptoms?
Yes. Syphilis can be present for a long time without clear symptoms. You can still pass it on during this stage.

When should I get tested for syphilis?
Get tested if you have symptoms, after unprotected sexual contact, or if you were notified by a partner or the Public Health Service (GGD). Keep in mind the window period of a few weeks between exposure and reliable test results.

Is there a reliable self-test for syphilis?
Yes. Our syphilis self-tests from The Tester are CE-certified and, when used correctly, are about 97% accurate [96.1–98.3%]. They detect antibodies to the bacterium Treponema pallidum.

What is a syphilis self-test?
A syphilis self-test is a home test that uses a finger-prick blood sample. The test detects antibodies against the bacterium that causes syphilis.

Who is a syphilis test for?
The test is suitable for anyone who may have been at risk of an STI or has symptoms consistent with syphilis. Testing can be useful even without symptoms.

2. Use & instructions

How does a syphilis self-test work exactly?
You perform the test entirely at home. Use a finger-prick to collect a few drops of blood and apply them to the test cassette. Then add the provided buffer. You can read the result yourself within 10–15 minutes.

How do I collect blood for a syphilis self-test?
Use the supplied lancet to obtain a small drop of blood from your fingertip. Use the pipette to place it on the test cassette and follow the instructions carefully.

How do I read the result of a syphilis self-test?
The result appears as lines on the test cassette:

• 1 line = test valid and negative
• 2 lines = test positive → contact your GP or the Public Health Service (GGD)
• No lines or unclear result = test invalid; perform a new test

3. Accuracy & quality

How accurate is a syphilis test?
Our syphilis self-tests are up to 97% accurate [96.1–98.3%] when performed correctly and after the window period. All tests from The Tester are CE-certified and meet European quality standards.

Can syphilis be detected in the blood?
Yes. A blood test detects antibodies to Treponema pallidum. This is the standard method for diagnosing syphilis.

Can I get a false-positive or false-negative result?
Yes, especially if you test too early. If you are unsure or have symptoms, repeat the test or contact your GP or the Public Health Service (GGD).

Are all syphilis self-tests equally reliable?
No. Always choose a CE-certified test from a reputable manufacturer. All tests from The Tester meet the highest quality and safety standards.

How do your tests compare to a laboratory test?
Our self-tests provide a reliable indication in most cases (about 97%). A laboratory test can be slightly more precise, but the self-test offers a quick, safe, and practical solution for home use.

4. Results & next steps

How long after exposure can syphilis be detected?
Usually from 2 to 3 weeks after infection. If an early test is negative, it is advisable to test again at 12 weeks.

What should I do if my syphilis test is positive?
Contact your GP or the Public Health Service (GGD) for a confirmatory test. Syphilis is treated with antibiotics (usually penicillin injections).

What should I do if my syphilis test is negative?
If you recently took a risk, repeat the test after the window period. Stay alert for symptoms and get tested if in doubt.

5. Medical advice & aftercare

When should I see a doctor if I suspect syphilis?
Consult your GP or the Public Health Service (GGD) if you have symptoms, after risky contact, or after a positive self-test. Early treatment prevents serious complications.

Where can I be treated for syphilis?
Treatment is provided by your GP or the Public Health Service (GGD). Most people receive antibiotic treatment with penicillin.

6. Product information & shelf life

How long does a syphilis test remain usable?
Our syphilis self-tests from The Tester typically have a shelf life of 18 to 24 months. The exact date is printed on the box. We supply only recent stock for reliable results.

Can I combine a syphilis self-test with other STI tests?
Yes. At The Tester you can also order combo tests, such as a 3-in-1 or 5-in-1 STI test. This is useful if you are unsure which STI you may have contracted.

Can I order multiple syphilis self-tests at once?
Yes. Larger orders are shipped discreetly in one neutral package without identifiable markings.

7. Ordering & shipping

How discreet is delivery of a syphilis test?
All tests from The Tester are delivered in a neutral mailbox package without identifiable references to the contents or brand.

How fast will a syphilis test be delivered?
Orders placed on business days before 17:00 are usually delivered the next day. Shipping is discreet and trackable via track & trace.

Can I return a syphilis test?
For hygiene and safety reasons, syphilis self-tests cannot be returned. At The Tester we guarantee that every test is new, unused, and sealed. Always check the packaging upon receipt.

Are there shipping costs for a syphilis test?
Yes. Shipping costs are €4.99 per order. Product prices exclude shipping. All packages from The Tester are shipped discreetly in a neutral mailbox package with track & trace.

8. Safety & privacy

Is a syphilis self-test safe to use at home?
Yes, provided you follow the instructions. The test is safe, CE-certified, and comparable to a small finger-prick.

Are my test results stored?
No. You read the result yourself at home. No test data are stored or shared.

How is my privacy protected when ordering a syphilis test?
Your personal data are used only to process and ship your order, in accordance with the GDPR.

Can anyone tell that I ordered a syphilis test?
No. The packaging and payment description do not contain recognizable references to The Tester or the product.

What happens to my data on the website and in the order system?
Your data are used only for order processing and delivery. They are stored securely and not shared with third parties without consent.

9. Trust in The Tester

Is The Tester a reliable website to order a test?
Yes, The Tester is considered reliable. The site scores well on Trustpilot, uses a secure SSL connection, and ships discreetly. Always check that the test is CE-certified and contact a doctor if your result is positive.

Are customer reviews of The Tester mostly positive?
On Trustpilot, The Tester scores around 4.4 out of 5 stars. Customers praise the fast delivery, clear instructions, and good customer service. Any complaints are handled promptly and professionally.