Testing in Nova Scotia
Getting tested for STIs in Nova Scotia can be difficult. Many people face challenges and long wait times while trying to get tested. We have filled this section with our best resources for navigating sexual health testing in Nova Scotia, and we are always happy to confidentially chat with you if you have specific questions around accessing testing (or other sexual health) services.
Service Navigation Resources
(Who can help you get tested)
When looking for sexual health services Nova Scotia Community non-profits can be some of the best places to look for support finding out what testing options are available and accessible to you.
Sexual Health Nova Scotia has created a sexual, gender, and reproductive health directory called SUGAR Health that we highly recommend checking out to find services near you. SUGAR Health can be found HERE.
PrideHealth, a program of Nova Scotia Health, also operates a number that you can call for referrals or help finding 2SLGBTQIA+ services including STBBI testing. The information for PrideHealth can be found HERE.
Through VirtualCare NS there is also a fantastic option called MapleHealth for folks who have Nova Scotia Health Cards and are on the wait-list to get a family doctor. This virtual healthcare service is covered by MSI and is known to have considerably quicker wait-times. You can meet with a doctor to request referrals for STI tests. MapleHealth can be found HERE.
At Home Testing
HIV self tests cost around $40 a test, however some health non-profits and clinics provide them for free. We give them out year-round at our office on Spring Garden Rd. in Halifax. They can also be picked up at a number of libraries around the province. To see the full list of library locations visit click here. For folks outside of these regions, we recommend calling your local sexual health centre or clinic to see if they have tests on hand for you to pick up.
At home chlamydia and gonorrhea testing
The STI Care Now Initiative offers a free, convenient, and confidential option for sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea and linkage to care in Nova Scotia. With this initiative, you can:
- Order a Free At-Home Testing Kit: Complete a secure online form to request a kit delivered right to your home, or address of choice.
- Test Privately and Easily: Follow simple instructions to collect your specimen.
- Get Results and Support: Receive your results and, if needed, access virtual assessment, prescriptions, or in-person care.
Please note: In-person appointments are currently available in the Halifax and Truro areas only.
This service is designed to reduce barriers to STI testing and care, helping you take control of your sexual health with ease and privacy.
Website to access: The STI Care Now Initiative | Nova Scotia Health
Direct Access to the webform: Ocean
Testing Centres in Nova Scotia
Anywhere in Nova Scotia
- Make an appointment with your primary care provider (doctor or nurse practitioner)
- Visit your nearest walk-in clinic
- Make an appointment at your post-secondary institution’s student health clinic
- For people in First Nation communities, contact your Community Health Centre nurse for information or to book an appointment for testing
Central Zone
Halifax Sexual Health Centre (open to all)
Located at 7071 Bayers Road, Suite 302, in Halifax
** Call to make an appointment: 902-455-9656
QEII STI Clinic (open to all)
Located at 5th floor Dickson Building, QEII
5820 University Avenue, in Halifax
** Call to make an appointment between 1 and 3pm on Monday and Thursday: 902-473-2272
Newcomer Health Clinic (for government assisted or privately sponsored refugees and refugee claimants)
Located at 6960 Mumford Road, Suite 0265, in Halifax
** Call to make an appointment: 902-487-0501
Wije’winen Health Centre (for Indigenous people residing in Halifax Regional Municipality)
Located at 2021 Brunswick Street, Suite 209, in Halifax
** Call to make an appointment: 902-406-0851
Western Zone
The Red Door (for youth ages 13-30)
Located at 10 Webster Street, Suite 110, in Kentville
** Call to make an appointment: 902-679-1411
Tri-County Wellness Clinic
Located at 12 Cumberland Street, in Yarmouth
** Call to make an appointment: 902-742-1790
Eastern Zone
Ally Centre of Cape Breton (open to all)
Located at 75 Prince Street, in Sydney
** Call to make an appointment: 902-567-0178
Northern Zone
Truro Sexual Health Centre (open to all)
Located at 68 Robie St, Suite 130, in Truro
** Call to make an appointment: 902-956-1550