BACKGROUND With sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) no longer on the decline, it is prudent to assume that all cases of non specific urethritis and cervicitis are caused by sexually transmitted infection. Specific infections of the urethra and cervix due to chlamydia and other non gonococcal organisms are common and because they are often not apparent clinically, are underdiagnosed. OBJECTIVE The aim of this paper is to provide a realistic approach to the management of urethritis and cervicitis by encouraging the performance of investigations and the instigation of treatment at the first consultation. CONCLUSIONS A knowledge of the patient's sexual history combined with a working knowledge of the new DNA based technologies should provide for the early assessment of and intervention with patients who are at risk of at least one STD infection.