Know For Sure in Pride Park

A sting, an answer and then you'll know for sure. For the sixth year in a row all Pride Park visitors can take HIV tests in the stand of Temple of Love. Needless to say, both anonymous and free.

- At first we only had HIV tests, then we added tests for syfilis and since three years we can also offer tests for chlamydia, says Rita from Venhälsan at Södersjukhuset.

Start by asking for a test at the information desk. They'll give you a queue number and after a short while you will be welcomed into the next room where a nurse will take your blood sample. You can also leave a urine sample. The editorial staff at Stockholm Pride tried the test out and have nothing but praise for the nurses' care. Even the photographer with syringe phobia managed to keep calm.

Quick tests on Venhälsan all week

During this week, men having sex with men can quick test for HIV at Venhälsan at Södersjukhuset. That means taking a capillary test and receiving your answer thirty minutes later. In Pride Park both guys and girls are welcome, but will have to wait for their answers for a week. The answer has to be picked up at Södersjukhuset, or - if you prefer that - a nurse will call you to give you the result. Girls who want to test in Stockholm after Pride are referred to Sesam City on Sveavägen.

- We used to test girls some nights on Venhälsan, but Sesam City has taken over that now.

Counsel, lubricants and condoms

Except tests you can also visit the tent to ask the counselors questions , talk about HIV and safer sex. And of course grab the opportunity to pick up some free lubricants and condoms in pretty golden wrappings.