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Syphilis Test

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Syphilis Test

Before you start

You will need:

  • Your Syphilis test kit
  • The finger-prick items provided
  • The buffer dropper provided
  • A timer or your phone

Before starting:

  • Check the expiry date.
  • Do not use the test if the package is damaged or already open.
  • Keep the kit between 4–30°C.
  • Do not freeze the kit.
  • Keep it away from direct light.
  • Once opened, use the test within 2 hours.
  • Wash and dry your hands.

Step 1 — Take your finger-prick sample

  • Wash your hands with warm water and soap, then dry them thoroughly.
  • Remove the protective cap from the single-use finger pricker.
  • Press the pricker firmly against the side of a clean fingertip to prick your finger.
  • Hold your hand pointing down and gently massage from your palm towards the fingertip until a rounded drop of blood forms. Do not squeeze the puncture site.
  • Use the blood collection tool in the kit to collect the blood drop.
  • Use the blood immediately, then safely dispose of the used pricker. Do not reuse it.
  • Take care when handling blood and avoid getting blood on your skin, eyes or other surfaces.

Step 2 — Take the test

  • Open the test pouch.
  • Remove the test cassette.
  • Place it flat on a clean surface.
  • Add 1 drop of your finger-prick blood to the sample area.
  • Add 2 drops of the buffer solution from the dropper.
  • Start your timer.

Step 3 — Read your result

  • Read your result at 15 minutes.
  • Do not read the result after 20 minutes.

Result timing

Read your result at 15 minutes.
Do not read the result after 20 minutes.

How to read your result

Use the words and line positions together. Never rely on colour alone.

Positive

What it means
Syphilis antibodies have been detected.
What to do next
We recommend speaking to a doctor, GP or healthcare professional for further testing and advice.

Negative

What it means
Syphilis antibodies were not detected by the test.
What to do next
A negative result does not completely rule out infection. If you are concerned or have symptoms, speak to a healthcare professional.

Invalid

What it means
The test has not worked correctly.
What to do next
Repeat the test using a new kit.

Important information

  • Once opened, use the test within 2 hours.
  • Take care when handling blood and avoid getting blood on your skin, eyes or other surfaces.
  • A negative result does not completely rule out infection.

My Result Summary

Create a simple PDF record of the result you read, to keep or show a healthcare professional.

Created on your phone only. We don't ask for your name, we don't save your result and it is never sent to us or to any analytics.

Your result (as shown in the instructions)

This is a customer-generated record of a self-reported screening result. It is not a clinically verified medical certificate or a formal diagnosis. CareFree Kits has not seen or verified this result.

What to do next

If antibodies are detected, contact a doctor or sexual health clinic for further testing and advice. If negative but you have symptoms, an exposure or concerns, seek professional assessment. If no control line appears, use a new kit. Ask for help with any unclear result.

A negative result cannot completely rule out infection. An antibody screening result needs clinical interpretation and does not alone determine treatment. Timing, collection and correct use affect what a screening test can tell you.

Call NHS 111Email CareFree Kits

In an emergency, call 999.

Find Healthcare Support Near You

Results open on the NHS website, an external resource with clinic contact details and service information.

NHS services, eligibility and appointment availability vary by area. Contact the clinic directly to ask about appointments.

Find a sexual health clinic near you (opens the NHS website) NHS 111 Emergency 999

CareFree Kits is a private service and is not affiliated with or operated by the NHS.

Important information

Important information for all tests.

  • Check the expiry date. Never use a test that is expired, damaged or already open.
  • Only use the swab and items supplied with your kit.
  • Use a timer and read your result at the exact time stated. Never read it late.
  • No C line means the test is invalid. Repeat it with a new kit.
  • A negative result does not always rule out infection. Testing too soon, or collecting too little sample, can affect it.
  • A positive or reactive result should always be followed up with a healthcare professional.
  • Still have symptoms or worried about a recent exposure? Speak to a healthcare professional, even if your result is negative.
  • Not sure what your result shows? Do not guess. Repeat the test with a new kit or speak to a healthcare professional.
  • Keep test kits away from children and pets, and dispose of used items safely.
  • CareFree Kits provides testing products and general information. Our tests do not replace professional medical advice or diagnosis.