FAQ about STI testing clinics and booking

Question 1

What is AskBefore?

Accepted Answer

AskBefore helps you find and book nearby STI testing clinics — compare price, location, availability, and test options in minutes. Already tested? AskBefore also lets you share results in a secure, gentle way — private, clear, and without awkward talks.

Question 2

How do I find clinics near me?

Accepted Answer

Type your city in the search field — the map will jump to that location and show available clinics nearby. Use filters to narrow by test options, sample type, and availability.

Question 3

Do I have to share my location?

Accepted Answer

No. You can simply enter your city in the search field. If you allow location access, we use it only to center the map nearby. Your browser shares location with an accuracy estimate (it may be approximate or more precise depending on your browser settings).

Question 4

Why use AskBefore instead of a general booking platform?

Accepted Answer

AskBefore is built specifically for STI testing — a sensitive topic where people need clear, discreet options fast. Compare transparent clinic prices, filter for self-pay (no insurance), and see availability, sample types, and test options in minutes. We also provide clear educational notes and ready-made panels based on trusted public health sources and guidelines (e.g., WHO, CDC, BASHH, IUSTI).

Question 5

Are the prices on AskBefore final? Do you add markups?

Accepted Answer

Using the clinic finder is free. Prices shown are provided by clinics, and we don't add a markup to the clinic's listed price. Please note: the results-sharing service is separate and may have its own fee.

Question 6

Can I book online through AskBefore?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Some partner clinics support online booking through AskBefore; others may provide contact or request options depending on the clinic.

Question 7

How do payments work?

Accepted Answer

When online booking is available, you pay directly to the clinic as part of the booking flow (not to AskBefore).

Question 8

What are "ready-made packages"?

Accepted Answer

Ready-made packages are pre-selected sets of tests grouped for common needs. Some clinics price packages lower than the same tests bought separately — so you can often save money and avoid guessing.

Question 9

Can I book without insurance (self-pay)?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All clinics listed on AskBefore offer self-pay options (no insurance required). Specific prices and booking/payment steps may vary by clinic.

Question 10

Can I choose sample types (blood, urine, swabs)?

Accepted Answer

Yes — use filters to find clinics that offer the sample types you prefer (depending on what each clinic provides).

Question 11

How do I know what tests I need — do I have to call the clinic?

Accepted Answer

You shouldn't have to. AskBefore is designed to reduce awkward calls and clinic "shopping". We help you compare options and offer clear educational notes and ready-made test packages that cover common needs, so you can choose before booking. This information is general and doesn't replace medical advice — if you have symptoms or concerns, contact a clinician.

Question 12

How do I prepare for the test?

Accepted Answer

If online booking is available, you'll see preparation instructions and clinic notes during booking and/or in your confirmation message.

Question 13

How fast will I get results?

Accepted Answer

Turnaround time depends on the clinic and the tests selected. AskBefore does not receive results from clinics directly, so the clinic will confirm timing.

Question 14

Does AskBefore receive or see my test results?

Accepted Answer

No — we don't receive your test results directly from clinics or labs. If you choose to upload results to share with a partner, the sharing page uses end-to-end encryption (E2EE), so AskBefore can't read the content.

Question 15

How can I cancel or reschedule?

Accepted Answer

Cancellation/rescheduling rules depend on the clinic. Use your booking details and contact the clinic directly if you need changes.

Question 16

I can't find a clinic or the test I need. What should I do?

Accepted Answer

Try another city spelling, expand the distance, or adjust filters (availability, sample type, tests). If your city isn't supported yet, contact support and tell us what you need.

Question 17

How do you choose clinics shown on the map?

Accepted Answer

We list partner clinics and show the availability and test options they provide. If something looks wrong or outdated, report it to support — we'll verify and update.

Frequently Asked Questions