STDs in Belgium: why testing can be useful even without symptoms

STDs in Belgium: why testing can be useful even without symptoms

A sexually transmitted disease (STD), also referred to as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), does not always cause symptoms. You may feel healthy and still have an infection. If you have concerns after sexual contact, your GP can offer a confidential consultation and advice on appropriate testing.

What do the Belgian figures show?

According to the Sciensano bulletin published in August 2025, diagnoses of gonorrhoea and syphilis continued to rise in Belgium in 2024. Chlamydia remained the most frequently diagnosed of these three infections, although the number of diagnoses fell that year.

These figures need to be interpreted carefully: the number of infections detected also depends on how many people are tested. Fewer diagnoses do not necessarily mean a corresponding fall in infections.

No symptoms does not always mean no infection

Some STDs cause pain when urinating, unusual discharge, a sore or other changes around the genitals. However, infections can also occur without noticeable symptoms.

Chlamydia, for example, often causes no symptoms. Gonorrhoea in the throat can also go unnoticed. Waiting until you notice a problem is therefore not always a reliable way to decide whether you need a test.

When should you discuss STD testing with your GP?

A consultation may be useful if:

you have had sex without a condom with a new partner;

a partner has an STD or may have been exposed to one;

you have symptoms such as pain when urinating, unusual discharge or a sore;

you and a new partner want to discuss appropriate testing before you stop using condoms;

you have concerns about a previous sexual contact.

Testing is not automatically necessary after every sexual contact. Together with your GP, you can consider which infections are relevant and when testing is likely to give reliable results.

How does testing work?

There is no single test that rules out all STDs. Depending on your situation, your GP may recommend a urine sample, a swab or a blood test.

The site from which a sample is taken also matters. After oral or anal sex, a throat or rectal swab may be appropriate. A urine sample alone does not check these sites.

Tell your GP what type of contact took place and when. This information helps them choose the appropriate tests. Your consultation is covered by medical confidentiality.

What happens if a test is positive?

Treatment depends on the infection. For gonorrhoea, choosing the right antibiotic is particularly important because the bacteria can be resistant to certain antibiotics. Do not take leftover antibiotics on your own.

Your GP will also discuss whether follow-up testing is needed, when it is appropriate to resume sexual contact and which partners should be informed. This allows partners to get tested and helps reduce further transmission or reinfection.

STD care at HAP.GENT

Do you have symptoms, concerns after sexual contact or questions about testing? You can discuss them confidentially at HAP.GENT. Together, we will consider which tests and follow-up are appropriate for your situation.

Book an appointment through the online booking system at www.hap.gent.