Top airfryer deals to shop in the Amazon Black Friday sale on now – from Ninja, Tefal and more

Aifryers that have been reduced in price over at Amazon that you should snap up whilst you can
Still looking for the perfect airfryer for your kitchen? Well Amazon has it, and on offer too! (Picture: Metro/Amazon/Getty)

Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more

The Amazon Black Friday deals are here and there are some amazing discounts to snap up on homeware, gadgets, beauty and more.

One buy not to miss? That’s obviously the must-have airfryer. If you haven’t bought the hit kitchen gadget yet, now’s your chance.

These nifty kitchen gadgets cook food to perfection in a matter of minutes with minimal oil and plenty of energy savings.

Our shopping expert has pulled together a curated list of buys from top brands, including Ninja and Tefal, with the very best discounts.

So if you haven’t scored one yet – what are you waiting for? Scroll down to check out what’s on offer.

Top Airfyers to shop from Amazon this Black Friday – but you only have until December 2 to do so…

Top Airfyers to shop from Amazon this Spring Deal Day

Tefal Easy Fry Max Air Fryer

Tefal Easy Fry Max Digital Air Fryer

Serve up to six people using Tefal’s Easy Fry Max Air Fryer Max with a capacity of 5L. The digital control panel and 10 auto programs make cooking effortless and speedy. Plus, its sleek black design looks great in any kitchen. Plus, the adjustable temperature control and 60-minute timer ensure perfect results every time, whether you're air frying, roasting, grilling, or baking.

BUY NOW FOR £49.97 (WAS £79.99) – SAVE 38%

Ninja Foodi MAX Dual Zone Digital Air Fryer

Ninja Foodi MAX Dual Zone Air Fryer

Cook more in less time with the Ninja Foodi MAX Dual Zone Air Fryer. Featuring two independent drawers and a huge 9.5L capacity, you can cook different foods at once making it perfect for large families. With 6 cooking functions, it air fries, bakes, roasts, and more with little to no oil and its digital controls make it super easy to use.

BUY NOW FOR £154.99 (WAS £239.99) – SAVE 35%

Russell Hobbs 4L Rapid Digital Air Fryer

Russell Hobbs 4L Rapid Digital Air Fryer

With 10 pre-set programmes, a 4 litre capacity and the ability to circulate air at 220ºC, the Russell Hobbs 4L Rapid Digital Air Fryer is a must-have gadget for speedy cooking and saving on energy. Using up to 46% less energy than a conventional oven, it’s great for everything from chicken and chips to cakes and bakes.

BUY NOW FOR £49.99 (WAS £94.99) – SAVE 47%

Black airfryer with mobile phone next to it

COSORI 6.4L Dual Blaze Smart Air Fryer Oven

Looking for a smarter way to cook? The COSORI air fryer is a game-changer. Thanks to dual heating elements and sensors, it delivers precise temperature control and cooks up to twice as fast as a conventional oven – so you get perfectly crispy results every time. With a generous 6.4L capacity, it’s ideal for family meals, and the BPA-free non-stick basket makes clean-up effortless. Better yet, it can help cut energy bills by up to 55%, saving you time and money. There are 12 versatile functions, so whether you’re roasting, baking or air frying, it’s as simple as tapping the screen – no preheating, no waiting. Plus, with the VeSync app, you can access hundreds of recipes and track your favourites for endless cooking inspiration.

BUY NOW FOR £78.99 (WAS £109.99) – SAVE 28%

Chefman Air Fryer 5.7L

Chefman Air Fryer 5.7L

Make mealtimes easier with the Chefman Air Fryer 5.7L. Its large capacity is perfect for family-sized portions and the clever rapid air technology gives you crispy, delicious results with little to no oil. The intuitive digital controls and preset cooking options make cooking effortless. Plus, it’s one of the sleekes and most efficient airfryers on the market.

SHOP £39.99 (WAS £47.49) – SAVE 16%

Tower T17088 Vortx 9L Dual Basket Air Fryer with Smart Finish

Tower T17088 Vortx 9L Dual Basket Air Fryer with Smart Finish

The Tower T17088 Vortx 9L Dual Basket Air Fryer with Smart Finish features a clever Match Cook setting to finish both cooking compartments at the same time, making it easy to pull a meal together for the family. With 10 one-touch presets, you can easily select the appropriate cooking mode for a variety of dishes, simplifying the cooking process and its Vortx air frying technology means food cooked with little to no oil.

BUY NOW FOR £69.99 (WAS £119.99) – SAVE 42%

This is a LIMITED TIME SALE! Get yourself, parent, grandparent or even neighbour the hottest kitchen device at these low prices!

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Mum Destiny Smith had never imagined that a family dinner gathering at Thanksgiving would mark the moment her two year-old daughter would begin a frightening journey that would leave doctors unsure whether she would survive. Friends and relatives had been happily hugging and kissing the toddler in the days beforehand, a habit Destiny had always allowed and welcomed without a second thought. Until then she had only known RSV as something that troubled very young babies or the elderly, not an infection that could push a toddler into severe respiratory illness. (Pictures: Destiny Smith/SWNS)
The first warning signs appeared around Thanksgiving 2024 when Destiny’s daughter started to sniffle and come down with what looked like a routine seasonal illness. Destiny, from Lake County, Florida, watched her carefully, aware something wasn’t quite right, yet unable to place specifically what it was that was wrong. As the hours passed by, her daughter’s breathing changed and her chest began to move in a way that made Destiny’s concern. Her partner Tristan, 27, also sensed that this was no ordinary virus. Together they decided the safest option was to take her straight to hospital for assessment. (Picture: Destiny Smith/SWNS)
Hospital staff quickly admitted the little girl overnight and diagnosed respiratory syncytial virus, a common respiratory infection that can cause bronchitis or pneumonia. Though doctors had initially hoped that monitoring and treatment would stabilise her, Destiny sensed the situation shifting in a way that felt increasingly ominous. She said that the little girl’s breathing pattern looked strange in a way she’d never seen before. (Picture: Destiny Smith/SWNS)
On her second day in hospital, the toddler weakened significantly, leaving both parents terrified as they watched her oxygen levels fall – despite ongoing care. Destiny recalled how rapidly the condition escalated, with medical teams administering breathing treatments every two hours yet still struggling to keep her stable. She said: ‘Throughout the night, she got really, really bad.’ By that point doctors agreed that she needed specialist care and prepared the child for an emergency transfer. (Picture: Destiny Smith/SWNS)
Soon, the youngster was airlifted to the paediatric ICU, a step that confirmed just how serious the infection had become. Destiny said, ‘After two days, they life-flighted her to the PICU, they were giving her breathing treatments every two hours, her oxygen levels kept going down and down.’ She added: ‘One minute she’d be okay, and the next she wouldn’t, it was very, very scary.’ (Picture: Destiny Smith/SWNS)
The mum said: ‘The doctors weren’t sure whether it would take a turn for the worse, or if it would get better, it was just horrible. It was probably the most terrifying thing I’d ever been through, not knowing whether my child was going to survive the night, or if I would have to plan a funeral. My boyfriend and I stayed with her from the day she got admitted to the very end. It scared the life out of us.’ (Picture: Destiny Smith/SWNS)
After eight days of treatment, five of them in intensive care, their daughter finally began to recover. Doctors allowed Destiny to take her home with an inhaler that had to be used every four hours for three weeks. She was later sent to a specialist to rule out underlying health issues but no cause was found. Destiny said: ‘They couldn’t find anything, it was just something that happened out of the blue.’ (Picture: Destiny Smith/SWNS)
In the year since, Destiny’s been forced to reconsider every casual kiss, every friendly cuddle and every hand placed on her child’s face by well-meaning relatives. She said relatives had been kissing and handling her daughter in the days before she fell ill, something she had never worried about before. She said: ‘We’d had her out and about with family members, and people love giving kisses to babies. People were putting their hands on my child, and they might not have washed them.’ Her message now is simple. ‘I always tell people to be careful with letting people who aren’t in their immediate family hug and kiss them, because their kid could be next. I think this is something really important to raise awareness of I had no idea it could get so bad that kids end up in the ICU. I just want other parents to know how quickly it can get serious. Please trust your gut and get them checked if something feels off.’ (Picture: Destiny Smith/SWNS)
Emily Tisshaw was hospitalised on numerous occasions due to her addiction (Picture: Metro/Emily Tisshaw)

‘Everyone needs to get addicted to one thing at least once in their life to prove to themselves that they can break an addiction,’ claimed comedian Rachel Sennott, during an episode of internet show, SubwayTakes.

‘Play with the fire,’ she adds. ‘I was addicted to laxatives for one year.’

It might have been a tongue-in-cheek comment from the I Love LA actress, but her words hit a nerve.

Hundreds of comments quickly came flooding in, accusing Rachel of trivialising addiction.

‘Never disagreed with someone this quick,’ wrote @BBallQueens. ‘How out of touch do you have to be to act like addiction is some cute little quirk,’ @brunolovrr added.

Even host, Kareem Rahma, looked perplexed, saying: ‘I’m gonna… push back on that.’

@subwaytakes

Episode 556: Everyone should get addicted to something at least once to prove to themselves that they can break an addiction!! Feat @Rachel Sennott #funny #silly #losangeles #nyc #rachelsennott

♬ original sound – SubwayTakes

While addiction might be a punchline here, it’s no laughing matter for those affected by it.

Between April 2023 and March 2024 there were 310,863 adults in the UK in contact with drug and alcohol treatment services. Tragically, the total number of people who died while in contact with treatment services in 2023 to 2024 was 4,022 — that’s 1.3% of all adults in treatment.

‘I took drugs in the morning, afternoon, weekdays and weekends’

Emily Tisshaw, 31, first started taking drugs at parties, aged just 19.

She tells Metro: ‘I enjoyed dancing, going out, being around lots of friends, doing silly stuff.

‘I remember my first MDMA bomb. I was 19 and felt hopeless with the general state of the world, but MDMA transported me away from despair and into a state of euphoria for hours.’

But what started off as a fun habit, soon spiralled.

‘Feeling high was something I chased,’ she says. ‘I did it with friends, strangers, and alone. In the morning, afternoon, weekdays and weekends.

Emily never expected her addiction to spiral so far out of control (Picture: Emily Tisshaw)

‘The first time I realised I had a problem was when I hadn’t eaten in a few days and I remembered that I needed to eat — not because I was hungry, but because I wanted my MDMA high to feel “better” than it would have on an empty stomach.’

To others, it looked like she was having fun, but during the height of her addiction, Emily lost two jobs in retail. ‘I’d show up late and confused,’ she said.

‘I ended up being unemployed, on sick benefits and destructively depressed.

‘I was taking drugs almost every day (either weed, alcohol, speed, MDMA, ketamine, coke or all of the above). I wasn’t eating much and I slept only when I really needed to.’

Emily has made incredible progress over the past five years (Picture: Emily Tisshaw)

Things took a more serious turn when Emily began experiencing psychosis: ‘I’d start hallucinating. I’d hear voices, and see figures in the dark.

‘My thoughts became fixated on delusional stories about being watched, listened to or followed. I even started having conversations with people that weren’t there, thinking that hours had passed when it’d been minutes. 

‘I had a few episodes and overdoses and was admitted to hospital several times.’

Emily would often try and kick the habit, but would fall back into the cycle.

‘The last episode I had scared me so much that I felt I needed to stop or I would never be able to escape,’ she says.

After Emily was discharged from the hospital (having experienced another bout of drug-induced psychosis), the NHS contacted her about working with a crisis team.

Out of ‘desperation and fear more than anything else’ Emily agreed and began cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).

It was a few months after this intervention that she managed to stick on this path of sobriety.

Emily experienced numerous bouts of psychosis during her addiction (Picture: Emily Tisshaw)

When asked about her thoughts on Rachel’s take, she says: ‘My immediate thoughts were that she was out of touch. I think addiction is a spectrum and it made me think she hadn’t ever experienced the full width of it. If she had, I don’t think she would’ve said that.’

While she felt as though Rachel’s comment came more from a place of ‘ignorance and inexperience’ as opposed to ‘malice’, it doesn’t take away from the distress she caused.

‘I would tell her to never say that again (or less politely, shut up),’ Emily continued.

‘I would say that addiction ruins lives, families, homes—that people die from addiction. I think her sentiment is that people should experience overcoming something, but I’d tell her to do her research on what that “something” should actually be, because addiction is not it.’

The 31-year-old has now become a pillar of home for other people (Picture: Emily Tisshaw)

Addiction is not a confidence exercise

Every single addiction specialist Metro spoke with was equally alarmed by the concept that addiction can be an experiment.

Dr Georges Petitjean, founder of WARM: the Workplace Addiction and Recovery Movement, explained to Metro that addiction ‘is not something people try on to test resilience,’ and nor is it something that people struggle with simply because they lack willpower.

He continued: ‘This message is deeply shaming for anyone living with addiction. It ignores genetic, environmental and trauma-related factors that predispose some people.

‘It also overlooks the fact that, once an addiction has developed, there are real changes in the brain that make it difficult for someone to “just stop”.’

Dr Samir Shah, a consultant psychiatrist and Medical Director at Priory Hospital, adds: ‘You cannot predict who will be severely affected by addiction. What may be occasional heavy drinking for one person can rapidly become a life-dominating addiction for another. You do not know in advance which experiment will spiral out of control. Why experiment when we know it can cause harm?’

Metro also spoke with Dr. Giuseppe Pierpaolo Merola, an experienced psychiatrist and psychotherapist, who has worked across several public mental health services. He perhaps sums his feelings best by saying: ‘Nobody is advising anyone to “get run over by a car once, just to check if the bone heals properly”, right?’

Is there such a thing as a healthy addiction?

During Rachel’s SubwayTakes she mentions how the kind of addiction she’s referring to could involve a ‘weird workout routine.’

This implies that not only is addiction something worth dabbling with, but that it’s not always harmful.

It’s a sentiment Dr Georges firmly disagrees with. ‘Language matters here,’ he says.

‘People often use the term casually, such as saying they are addicted to coffee or addicted to the gym, when what they really mean is that they enjoy something or engage in it habitually.

‘But addiction, clinically, is a pattern of behaviour that continues despite harm. By definition, that cannot be healthy.’

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Colourful satchel bags and accessories on a pink background
These bags are utterly gorgeous, and now at a fantastic price too! (Picture: Metro/Cambridge Satchel/Getty)

Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more

It’s long been our indie-sleaze dream to capture the effortless cool of Alexa Chung. And while we may not be able to steal her entire wardrobe (sob), we can channel her signature bag style at a discount thanks to Cambridge Satchel’s Black Friday sale.

The stunning, British-made bags have that timeless style and are crafted from real leather, so they’re built to last.

Alexa famously sported the 11 Inch Satchel on an outing, and the design is down from £185 to £111.

The classic bag, which has also been worn by Emma Stone, is a modern reimagining of the school bag, but with slick updates, like the smaller size and the magnetic closures. It’s also crafted from 100% leather at the brand’s workshop in the British Midlands, and it includes a handy front pocket for easy storage.

Pale pink satchel bag
The neural must-have from Cambridge Satchel is now at a bargain price! (Picture: Metro/Cambridge Satchel)

The Little One is the smallest version of the classic satchel and is available in a range of colours, including a bright clash of red and strawberry pink that we are obsessed with. One shopper claimed the bag was so irresistible that his wife was even offered the chance to sell it by a stranger during a meal out.

‘I bought this for my wife,’ Rohan said. ‘I just came here to say she gets compliments on this everywhere we go. Someone even offered to buy this off her at a restaurant lol.’

Pink sparkly twist lock clutch bag
It’s giving ‘pink party season’. (Picture: Metro/Cambridge Satchel)

Taylor Swift was once spotted carrying the Twist Lock Tote from the brand, and you can grab the similar Twist Lock Pouch at 40% off for Black Friday – down to £57 from £95. It comes in a vibrant range of colours, including Pink Celtic with Pink Glitter and Flax Matte Python.

For a pop of red, the Isla is a crimson dream, inspired by the Scottish Sporran. It features an adjustable and detachable leather strap and is now 40% off, reduced from £135 to £81.

Small pink teacup bag charm
This is very T-Swift coded. (Picture: Metro/Cambridge Satchel)

If you’re on a budget, you can pick up one of the brand’s charming charms to add a little extra flair to your style. The Teacup Charm is now just £12 and makes a perfect gift for any tea lover, while the Shortbread Charm looks good enough to eat.

The Cambridge Satchel also has a repair service just in case you have noticed any wear and tear on your purchase. And it’s not just Alexa, Taylor and Emma who have been tempted by the brand’s timeless style. Lady Gaga, Sophie Ellis Bextor, and Suki Waterhouse have all been snapped out with a bag too.

Plus, these slashed prices won’t last long, so we think you should snap up a bargain while you can!

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Jo Malone’s Black Friday deals include some serious freebies, with shoppers able to get their hands on a candle, body wash and a Christmas stocking that can’t be bought

Christmas tree, festive plate, lit up parcles and a green sofa are displayed on a gree, sparkly background.
You’ll find a plethora of festive bargains to be had in Dunelm’s Black Friday sale. (Picture: Metro/Dunelm/Getty)

Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more

If your home decor feels a little tired, your bed’s a bit squeaky or your towels are a bit past it, now’s the perfect time to give things a refresh. 

With Black Friday deals in full swing, it’s the perfect excuse to grab a bargain and give your home a little glow-up before Christmas, whether that’s a comfier mattress, stylish sofa, clever storage solutions or festive touches to make the place feel extra cosy.

Where’s the place to shop? It has to be Dunelm.

With deals across almost every corner of the home including up to 30% off Silentnight beds and mattresses, up to 50% off rugs and doormats, and big discounts on must-have heated clothes airers, there’s something for every room. 

And it’s not just practical buys on offer. Dunelm’s range of festive decor, cosy throws, cushions and seasonal accessories makes it easy to give your home a little extra sparkle for Christmas. 

Ready to shop and save? Take a look at our expertly curated roundup of the best deals to bag now. 

Bed in room in a dark colour

Silentnight Divan Bed With Velvet Paris Headboard and 800 Pocket Sprung Mattress

Silentnight Divan Bed with Velvet Paris Headboard and 800 Pocket Sprung Mattress features a stylish velvet headboard and an 800-spring Mirapocket mattress for even support and edge-to-edge comfort. Medium-firm and hypoallergenic, it’s designed for back and side sleepers and includes plush fillings and a soft knitted cover.

Buy NOW From £286.30 (WAS £409) – SAVE 30%

Pre-lit Christmas tree

6ft Pre-lit 200 LED Oxford Pine Christmas Tree

Dunelm’s 6ft Pre-lit 200 LED Oxford Pine Christmas Tree is a realistic artificial tree with hinged branches for easy setup. Pre-lit with 300 warm white LEDs, the dimmable lights offer 8 functions to suit any festive mood. Comes part-assembled with a sturdy metal stand – just add your decorations.

Buy NOW FOR £119.20 (WAS £149) – SAVE 20%

Headed airer in utility room

4 Tier Heated Airer

Spacious and efficient, this 4 Tier Heated Airer offers 23m of drying space across 40 bars, making laundry quicker and easier. With timer and temperature controls, it dries efficiently even in winter, costing just 9p per hour to run. Perfect for busy households, it’s fast, practical and energy-smart.

Buy NOW FOR £99 (WAS £165) – SAVE £66

Bright livingroom with beige carpet and sofa

Rune Carved Geo Shaggy Rug

Soft and stylish, Rune Carved Geo Shaggy Rug brings a touch of Scandi style to any room. Its textured, tone-on-tone pattern works perfectly in modern, minimalistic spaces, while the supersoft polyester pile feels indulgent underfoot. Durable and versatile, it’s ideal for bedrooms or living rooms and can easily adapt to changing décor.

Buy NOW FOR £32.50 (WAS £65) – SAVE 50%

Lightup presents under a lit Christmas tree

Set of 3 Woven Grass Light Up Parcels

This Set of 3 Woven Grass Light Up Parcels are handcrafted from natural materials and softly lit with warm white lights. Each parcel has a bow and is battery operated, making them easy to place on mantels, shelves or hallways.

Buy NOW FOR £17.50 (WAS £25) – SAVE 30%

Hanging blue lamp in a livingroom

Zillah Overreach Floor Lamp

Add a splash of colour with the Zillah Overreach Floor Lamp featuring a real marble base and velvet shade in striking peacock blue. The overreach design and convenient foot switch make it both stylish and practical, perfect for any room.

Buy NOW FOR £40 (WAS £80) – SAVE 50%

Green armchair in livingroom

Beatrice Velvet Snuggle Sofa

Designed for comfort, Dunelm’s Beatrice Velvet Snuggle Sofa features a fixed back, square arms, and foam-and-fibre cushions. Upholstered in velvet, it offers cosy seating for two and a sleek, contemporary look.

Buy NOW FOR £349 (WAS £399) – SAVE £50

White butter dish, exposing butter

Rustic Charm Butter Dish

Perfect for the kitchen, Rustic Charm Butter Dish holds up to 500g of butter. Made from durable stoneware with a ridged base and a debossed heart design, it keeps butter fresh and secure and is dishwasher safe.

Buy NOW FOR £12.80 (WAS £16) – SAVE 20%

Rattan bedroom side table with brown lamp on top, next to bed

Jordyn Wide Bedside Table

Keep your bedroom organised with the Jordyn Wide Bedside Table which features a wooden frame and a sliding rattan door. The internal shelf provides ample practical storage, while the natural rattan adds texture and style to any style of bedroom.

Buy NOW FOR £38.50 (WAS £55) – SAVE 30%

Merry Christmas plate with dree and holly decoration

Spode Christmas Tree Merry Christmas Tray

Serve your festive treats in style with Spode Christmas Tree Merry Christmas Tray made from high-quality porcelain. Dishwasher and microwave safe, it features a traditional Christmas tree design and pairs with other items in the Spode range for a cute, coordinated look.

Buy Now for £28 (was £30) – Save 20%

Don’t miss out! These Black Friday deals at Dunelm are the perfect way to refresh your home and grab festive essentials before they sell out.

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The gynecologist puts a smear on a slide glass for microscopy, hands close-up.Diagnosis of diseases of the genitourinary system.Women's health, medical concept.
Regular testing is vital (Picture: Getty Images)

Beyond the risk of pregnancy, casual sex without a condom can open you up to a whole new (and not very pleasant) world of sexually transmitted diseases.

Despite this, only 15% of Brits bought condoms last year, with the UK ranking 33rd out of 36 countries in a Durex study. Yikes.

But even if you are wrapping up, or are in a committed relationship, regular testing is still important, as some infections take a while to show up and half of UK adults don’t recognise telltale signs they may be infected.

Find out how long you need to wait to get tested for the most common STIs below – and get familiar with the symptoms too.

Chlamydia

There were 168,889 chlamydia diagnoses across the country in 2024, so it’s imperative that you get checkout for it.

Dr Hana Patel, GP and consultant for Superdrug Online Doctor, tells Metro you should be tested for chlamydia about two weeks after unprotected sex, as ‘the bacteria needs time to multiply to detectible levels.’

Symptoms mostly include burning when you wee and abdominal pain, according to the doctor. Specifically women may get bleeding between periods, while men may notice pain or swelling in the testicles.

However, Dr Patel notes: ‘Many people have no symptoms at all, which is why testing after unprotected sex is important.’

If you’re worried you could have it but don’t have symptoms you can order a self-test kit (which you can get for free if you’re under 25), but if you do have symptoms, book an appointment at the sexual health clinic or GP.

To test, you’ll need to give a wee sample or a swab to take fluid from your penis or vagina and possibly your bottom. If you get a positive result, it can be treated with oral antibiotics.

Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV)

This is a more invasive strain of chlamydia that develops gradually.

‘Symptoms can appear anywhere between three and 30 days after exposure, but waiting until two weeks after sex to test improves the chances of detection,’ Dr Patel says.

The doctor explains this STI develops in stages, starting with small genital or rectal ulcers that can then lead to rectal pain, bleeding and swollen lymph nodes.

If you test positive for chlamydia with these symptoms, the lab will then test another swab sample from the affected area, or do a urine sample, which can take three weeks. Treatment usually involves a 21-day course of antibiotics.

Chlamydia blood test, conceptual image
You can test for chlamydia two weeks after unprotected sex (Picture: Getty Images/Science Photo Libra)

Gonorrhoea

Again, Dr Patel suggests waiting two weeks to get tested after potential exposure to gonorrhoea, of which 71,802 cases were diagnosed in 2024.

‘Common symptoms include unusual discharge, burning during urination and pelvic or testicular pain,’ she says.

‘Women may experience more subtle symptoms than men, which can make the infection easy to overlook.’

If your swab or urine test proves positive, it’s typically treated with a single injection of ceftriaxone, sometimes combined with oral medication

Genital herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2)

This one is a little different, with Dr Patel sayying, genital herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2) ‘should be tested for with a swab as soon as symptoms appear.’

Typical symptoms include small blisters that break open into painful sores on the genitals or surrounding areas.

‘If you have had unprotected sex but do not have any symptoms, you should wait around 12 to 16 weeks before having a blood test,’ she adds.

‘This is because blood tests detect antibodies produced by your immune system, and these do not appear immediately after infection. Treatment for genital herpes usually involves antiviral medication such as aciclovir.’

woman doctor gynecologist examines a patient on a gynecological chair
Women routinely get a HPV test through a cervical screening (Picture: Getty Images)

Human papillomavirus (HPV)

This is the most common STI according to the GP. In fact, 80% of adults will contract it in their lifetime.

Women in the UK are screened for HPV through cervical screening from the age of 25, but there’s no routine test for men.

‘Some strains of HPV can cause small fleshy growths or bumps around the genitals or anus which can be removed with cryotherapy (freezing), topical creams or minor surgical procedures,’ Dr Patel explains.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A can be tested for between two and seven weeks after exposure because the virus can take several weeks to reach detectable levels in the blood,’ says Dr Patel.

‘Symptoms may include fever, nausea, abdominal pain and jaundice.’

This can’t be tested for at home – you’ll need to head to the doctors for a blood test. However, the good news is, most people recover fully with supportive care such as rest, fluids and monitoring.

Young male patient reading document while sitting on sofa at hospital
For most tests you’ll need to visit your local sexual health clinic or GP (Picture: Getty Images/Maskot)

Hepatitis B

According to Dr Patel, this is usually tested for ‘around six weeks to three months after unprotected sex.’

Similarly to Hepatitis A, it’s detected through a blood test, with the symptoms include abdominal pain and jaundice, as well as fatigue, although many people also have no noticeable symptoms.

‘Acute hepatitis B often resolves naturally, but chronic infection may require antiviral treatment to prevent long-term liver damage,’ she adds.

Syphilis

This less prevalent STI saw 9,535 diagnosed cases in the UK in 2024.

Dr Patel says you can test for it between four and 12 weeks after exposure because the antibodies need time to reach detectable levels, adding: ‘Syphilis symptoms can include a painless sore at the site of infection, swollen glands and, later, a rash on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet.’

As for the test itself, you’ll need either a blood test or a swab of the sore or lesion, and if you’re positive an injection of penicillin should treat it.

If you think you may have shigella then contact your GP and don’t go into work (Picture: Getty Images)

Shigella

Otherwise known as bacillary dysentery, this lesser-known STI has seen a spike in the UK in recent years.

‘Shigella should be tested for as soon as symptoms appear, typically through a stool sample,’ Dr Patel says.

These symptoms include diarrhoea, which could be bloody, along with stomach cramps and fever.

The doctor adds: ‘Treatment focuses on maintaining hydration, although antibiotics may be used in more severe cases.’

Trichomoniasis

This is a parasite that causes an STI known as trichomoniasis, which Dr Patel says can be tested for as early as one week after unprotected sex.

‘The parasite becomes detectable fairly quickly,’ she explains. ‘Symptoms may include vaginal discharge, genital itching and discomfort when passing urine, although many men have no symptoms at all.’

If a swab of the infected area or urine sample determines you have this STI, treatment is a course of oral antibiotics.

Asian woman having stomachache
If you have discomfort after unprotected sex, you should get tested (Picture: Getty Images)

HIV

Recent estimates from the Terrence Higgins Trust suggest that more than 111,800 people in the UK are living with HIV. Of these, over 5,200 are undiagnosed and unaware they’ve contracted the infection.

So, it’s important to get tested if you think you’ve been exposed, but the waiting times may vary depending on the type of test used.

‘A laboratory blood test can generally detect infection from around four weeks after exposure, while finger-prick or rapid tests are more accurate from around six to twelve weeks,’ Dr Patel says.

‘These tests detect antibodies and, in some cases, viral antigens, which take time to appear after infection.’

Early symptoms may resemble a flu-like illness two to six weeks after infection, followed by a long period with no symptoms.

Unfortunately, there is no known cure, but current treatment involves lifelong antiretroviral therapy, which keeps the virus suppressed enough to be undetectable and allows people to remain healthy.

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Female wears clothing against burgundy and yellow background
It’s time to upgrade your coat collection, and winter warmers whilst you’re at it. (Picture: Metro/Getty/Hobbs)

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Our thin jackets and lightweight layers may have put up a brave fight, but it’s time to pull out the big guns and wrap up with a thick coat.

But who says heavier layers have to dampen our style? Hobbs is a brand known for its timeless elegance and loved by fashion icons like Olivia Palermo and even the future queen herself, Kate Middleton

And for Black Friday, they’re offering major discounts across their range, including the elegant wool coats Kate loves.

Navy blue belted coat
We need this coat – for the cold snap, of course. (Picture: Metro/Hobbs)

The Celeste Wool Blend Coat is one Kate has worn on repeat since 2012. You can get it in navy for £284.25, down from £379. It’s available in petite too, as well as sizes 6 through to 22. The Italian wool-cashmere blend feels like pure luxury on the skin, and the removable fur collar is perfect for those extra frosty days.

The Livia Wool Coat is currently down from £379 to £220.15. It’s available in both regular and petite fits, and the coat ranges from size 6 to size 22, ensuring a perfectly tailored silhouette for every body.

It’s designed with sharp notch lapels for a structured finish, is crafted from 100% wool for unbeatable warmth, and has a silky lining. We love the Purple Malbec shade, which is a deep wine-coloured hue that just screams rich. Even if we’re just throwing this coat over our joggers for a quick run to Tesco, we’ll feel like an off-duty model running errands. If you prefer something more classic, the coat also comes in camel or navy for £303.20.

Burgundy red roll neck jumper
Upgrade your kniwear with this gorgeous rollneck, with gold studs. (Picture: Metro/Hobbs)

‘Hobbs never lets you down,’ one shopper said in their review. ‘A classic, very smart and an excellent quality pure wool coat.’

For a cosy knit layer, K Middy has also rocked the Lara Merino Rollneck Jumper in a bright pink, and it’s now 20% off and down to £63.20.

It’s crafted from soft Merino wool, which is praised for its exceptional warmth and breathability, and the slim fit makes it a stylish piece for any occasion.

‘An essential basic jumper, great addition to wardrobe, excellent quality fabric design and size,’ one shopper gushed in their feedback.

Grey ribbed socks with white ankles and toes
Warm socks are essential for cold weather. (Picture: Metro/Hobbs)

If you’re on a tight budget, Hobbs also has cosy Ribbed Single Socks for just £6.40, or the Celestial Socks for £8.

The 60-Denier Opaque Navy Tights have plenty of five-star reviews too, with customers saying they’re not only warm but the perfect thickness to avoid laddering. 

Or you could spend £17 for the Butterfly Sock Set, with shoppers hailing them as the perfect gift for someone special.

Looks like we’re ready for some winter warmers!

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Clear bottles, filled with different coloured liquid from Symprove
We’re all about gut health at Metro HQ. (Picture: Metro/SymproveGetty)

Symprove is said to be the UK’s number one gut supplement, which promises to improve gut health, aid digestion and ease IBS symptoms. 

The liquid gut supplement has garnered quite the fan base as celebrities including Alexandra Burke, Frankie Bridge, Georgia Toffolo and Lisa Snowdon have sung its praises, as well as multiple influencers. 

The liquid gold has been designed by experts to support your microbiome. The shot contains live bacteria that is gut-friendly. Symprove’s liquid solution allows the friendly bacteria to stay metabolically active while it is in the bottle, as well as in the shot, right down to your gut. 

The formula uses germinated barley extract to ferment the bacteria, which remains alive and effective as it passes through acidic environments in your gut.

If you are new to the brand and want to see what all the fuss is about, now you can. Symprove has launched a blinding Black Friday deal, which grants new UK customers 50% off their first 12-week subscription. 

Clear bottle with yellow gut health supplement inside
Are you ready to change your gut health game for the better? (Picture: Metro/Symprove)

It is super easy to consume, simply shake the bottle to break up any sediments at the bottom, pour into the shot and knock it back – or slurp at your own leisure. The most important factor is this must be consumed first thing in the morning and on an empty stomach to be most effective. 

For a one-off four-week supply it will cost £79.99, while a one-off three-month supply will cost £149.99. Alternatively a rolling subscription will cost £49.99 per month. However, Symprove’s Black Friday sale will slash 50% off the 12-week plan. 

To claim the deal all you have to do is enter the code ‘BLACKFRIDAY50‘ at the checkout. But the deal is only available from November 27 to December 1. 

There are four flavours to choose from, including original, pineapple, strawberry and raspberry, as well as mango and passion fruit, so you can select your option based on your preferred flavour profile.

Shop Symprove’s Black Friday deal here

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What began as a mild spring cold for little four month-old Melody soon unravelled into a life-changing crisis that her parents could never have imagined. Dorset-based Rachel-Elizabeth Hewitt and Kevin Aggett had taken their baby daughter to be checked after she went twelve hours without a wet nappy and her breathing began to grow shallow. At first a consultant suggested that Melody could well be suffering from bronchiolitis and talked about sending the family home. Another doctor kept Melody in overnight with an NG (nasogastric) tube and, by the following morning, a third consultant ordered a GAS (Group A Streptococcus) test. The swift results triggered more blood tests and within an hour the couple were told their beautiful new baby had leukaemia. Rachel remembered the moment with painful clarity: ‘It didn’t feel real. I was so shocked, I had to ask the consultant to repeat herself. Hearing those words was like a stabbing pain in my heart.’ (Pictures: Cancer Support UK/SWNS)
Melody was given an immediate platelet transfusion before an urgent transfer to paediatric intensive care in Southampton, where she remained for a full 30 days. Two weeks of that time Melody spent on a ventilator while doctors worked to stabilise her tiny body through rounds of chemotherapy and an array of interventions. Further tests soon revealed that she was facing a particular high risk form of cancer. The diagnosis was AML (acute myeloid leukaemia), an extremely rare type of fast-growing blood cancer that only affects about 100 young people in the UK each year. The pace of treatment was relentless, yet Rachel continued to breastfeed her daughter as often as she could, determined to give comfort to little Melody even amongst all of the tubes, machines, bleeps and procedures. (Picture: Cancer Support UK/SWNS)
Although her distraught parents watched each stage with fear and dread, Melody responded with a resilience that impressed all of the adults around her. Medical staff included. Even on the days when chemotherapy drained her of her colour and strength, she still managed to smile and giggle at familiar voices. Rachel said: ‘We do as much as possible with Melody – playing with her and giving lots of cuddles and love. She’s an inspiration because she’s smiled and giggled throughout – whereas I’ve cried continuously. She’s such a fighter even when feeling poorly.’ (Picture: Cancer Support UK/SWNS)
After a couple of months, expert doctors confirmed that Melody’s best chance of survival depended on a bone marrow transplant. She was moved again, this time to London’s famous Great Ormond Street Hospital, where specialists prepared her for the procedure. The move placed the family far from their home in Poole, but brought them closer to the expertise they urgently needed. The transplant process was long and complex. And although the team guided them through each and every step, nothing eased the fear of waiting for results or watching their daughter face procedures meant for patients much older than her. Melody continued to draw strength from the routine of cuddles and breastfeeding that her mum kept going amid the complications of being in such a strict clinical environment. (Picture: Cancer Support UK/SWNS)
Alongside the vital medical care, an unexpected source of comfort took up a constant place in Melody’s hospital bed. A Warmies heatable teddy, sent through Cancer Support UK’s Cuddles for Christmas appeal, quickly became Melody’s very favourite companion. Rachel said: ‘This warmable bear is wonderfully comforting and brings a smile to Melody’s face. It’s the perfect size for her and we are so grateful to everyone who donated and ensured Melody received her cute ted. It’s been a godsend at this difficult time.’ The lavender smell and gentle warmth soothed her during those long nights in her hospital bed, offering reassurance when her parents needed to step back and let the doctors and nurses do their work. (Picture: Cancer Support UK/SWNS)
Cancer Support UK’s chief executive Mark Guymer explained why these teddies have become cherished items on children’s cancer wards nationwide. ‘These bears are so much more than soft toys. They’re special lavender-scented sensory teds that can be gently warmed in a microwave. Their comforting weight and soothing warmth provide a sense of calm and reassurance for children facing the challenges of cancer treatment. For a child spending Christmas in hospital, treatment can be a frightening and isolating experience. A warm cuddle from one of our bears can help ease stress and anxiety, offering a moment of comfort and care when it’s needed most. It’s an ambitious appeal but with the public’s support we can make sure that every child facing cancer this Christmas receives a bear and knows that someone is thinking of them.’ The charity hopes to send 1,200 of the bears to hospitals across the UK this year. (Picture: Cancer Support UK/SWNS)
Through all of this hardship, Melody’s parents have had to learn to navigate a world of oncology teams, transfusion schedules and procedures. All of which unfold at a speed that’s dictated by her illness. What began, they thought, as just an ordinary cold in April has gone on to rewrite almost every single part of their lives. Yet the family continue to focus on the little wins… Each smile, each cuddle and every sign of progress – however little – serves as a reminder of the fight they have to carry on demonstrating. Because their daughter’s already shown more than enough fight of her own. (Picture: Cancer Support UK/SWNS)