Australian women to get home self tests for chlamydia and gonorrhoea – but experts urge caution

Colonies of gonorrhoea in bacterial culture medium. As rates of STIs in Australia rise, the TGA has approved a home self test for women. Photograph: jarun011/Getty Images/iStockphoto

With rates of some sexually transmitted infections in Australia on the rise, women will soon be able to test themselves for chlamydia and gonorrhoea at home – but sexual health experts have urged caution.

Australia’s drugs regulator, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), has approved the rapid home test for sale, and it is expected to be available in pharmacies from 13 December, with a recommended retail price of $24. The test involves taking a vaginal swab, which is then placed in a container with testing solution.