Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): An Overview, Payment, and Coverage | KFF
Best At-Home STD Tests For 2024
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We compared the best at-home STD tests available online and found that Everlywell offers users the best overall experience.
You can use this chart for a quick comparison of the tests in our roundup. Information is up-to-date as of January, 2024:
*Note that we use the term "basics" to encompass chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, HIV, HPV, syphilis, and trichomoniasis. Other STDs tested are unique to that brand.
Regular testing for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is important for overall health and any necessary treatments. Home STD/STI testing can provide an accurate and convenient method for knowing your status.
STDs and STIs are very common. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 1 million STIs are acquired daily worldwide.
One reason for this is that contraceptive methods, such as condoms, aren't always failproof. Overall, if you're sexually active, you could contract an STI.
Nowadays, many online services offer STD home testing kits that may make getting tested easier. You can also get STD home tests at Walgreens, CVS, Walmart, or other retail stores. But stores don't always have the test you want in stock, and follow-up care may be less than that of online services.
To fully check your STD status, you'll want a comprehensive test — also called a complete test, an STD panel test, or a test kit — that tests for a number of STDs at once. But if you're only concerned about one STD, you can get what is called a simple STD test, which is usually less expensive and faster.
Here's some information on quality at-home testing options, how to figure out what type is best for you, and when to contact a doctor.
*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
Healthline's reviewEverlywell at-home STD tests kits are designed separately for males and females. Each package tests for six commonly transmitted STIs. The Everlywell STD kit for females lets you test with just a finger prick and vaginal swab. Each purchase comes with:
Aside from Everlywell STD test kits, the company also offers individual tests for:
Every Everlywell test is reviewed and approved by an independent board-certified doctor in your state. If you test positive, Everlywell will connect you with their independent physician network (at no additional cost) to discuss questions and treatment options.
Everlywell also offers a membership plan for $39 a month ($33 a month if paid annually) that offers up to 56% off regular test prices, as well as a monthly credit towards any available Everlywell test.
What our tester saysOur market editor Christy Snyder tried out a couple of different products from Everlywell. The review of each product she used was different, but overall, she had a decent experience with the test kits. She found it was easy to register her kits as the directions were straightforward.
Snyder also warns that some test kits may require a big blood sample that people may not be able to fulfill. She recommends doing your own research before purchasing a kit. She also advises knowing what information you will get from these kits as some, like the food sensitivity test, show that "the science behind it isn't necessarily failproof."
Our market editor Christy Snyder tried out a couple of different products from Everlywell. The review of each product she used was different, but overall, she had a decent experience with the test kits. She found it was easy to register her kits as the directions were straightforward.
Snyder also warns that some test kits may require a big blood sample that people may not be able to fulfill. She recommends doing your own research before purchasing a kit. She also advises knowing what information you will get from these kits as some, like the food sensitivity test, show that "the science behind it isn't necessarily failproof."
Pros & cons*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
Healthline's reviewmyLAB Box offers a variety of at-home STD kits, including:
Aside from these, the service sells individual tests for each STD or STI. These allow you to get the answers you need without driving to a lab or spending money on copays to visit a doctor's office.
Every kit comes with a single-use collection kit, instructions, a specimen bag, and a prepaid return envelope.
Pros & cons*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
Healthline's reviewAlthough self-collected samples aren't typically as good as those taken in a lab, Nurx ensures accuracy by collecting fluids from various areas, such as a vaginal swab, throat swab, and rectal swab. This makes it possible to test for oral and anal STDs that might otherwise be missed.
Nurx offers three at-home test kits to choose from. You'll also pay consult and service fees:
These tests are usually covered by insurance, and Nurx will bill your plan directly (or you can pay out of pocket). With insurance, you'll pay consult and service fees, plus applicable co-pays or deductible.
Once Nurx collects your samples, they'll bill your insurance directly for the cost of the lab test. Without insurance, see the rates for each kit above. These prices include the test kit, lab work, and shipping.
Pros & cons*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
Healthline's reviewAvailable at CVS locations across the country and covered by both flexible spending accounts (FSAs) and health savings accounts (HSAs), LetsGetChecked is a convenient and accessible option for at-home tests and diagnostics.
They offer three types of tests:
LetsGetChecked tests require you to collect a urine and blood sample, depending on which test you select.
The service also includes a medical support team to answer any questions. If your STD results are positive, a nurse or physician will call you to explain your results and provide treatment options.
Pros & consiDNA has a number of individual STI tests, including a test for Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma, the bacteria associated with bacterial vaginosis. They use a self-collection method, which means that you don't need to go into a lab to get your STD results.
Additionally, they offer two combination tests and a customizable test bundle. The customizable bundle — which starts at $78 — is useful if you want to be tested for numerous STIs, as it can be more convenient than ordering individual tests.
Their pre-selected bundles include:
iDNA also offers memberships. Their $24.99-per-month membership offers you discounted tests, affordable doctor consultations, and one free monthly test of your choice. Their $49.99-per-month membership offers the same benefits, but with the option of a free doctor's consultation or a free test every month.
Pros & cons*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
Healthline's reviewQuick, secure, and completely confidential, STDCheck․com is a lab-based at-home test. This means you order the test over the phone or online and then go to a facility for sample collection.
Lab-based tests are generally more thorough than self-collected examinations. STDCheck․com has 4,500 locations nationwide.
While you can order individual tests from $24 to $99, the company's 10 Test Panel is their most comprehensive offer.
If you're concerned about a recent exposure, you can add the HIV RNA Early Detection Test, which can detect an HIV transmission as early as 9 to 11 days after exposure.
Pros & cons*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
Healthline's reviewThough this is not an at-home testing service exclusively, PrioritySTD is one of the most reputable STD testing options. Most reviews say the tests are:
You can get same-day testing, same-day medications, and results in 24 to 72 hours.
You can purchase your PrioritySTD test privately, online, or over the phone. PrioritySTD has more than 4,000 labs across the country. After your testing, you can access your results online or by calling a care counselor. Treatment options are available as well.
Aside from individual STD tests, PrioritySTD offers the following STD panel tests:
The service complies with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act and will not mail anything to your home or report anything to your healthcare professional.
Pros & consThere are a lot of factors to consider when choosing an at-home STD test, which is why we turned to the experts.
Every product we recommend and brand we work with is thoroughly vetted by our team. If there are any lawsuits, recalls, or regulatory action letters documented about these products or companies, our vetting team makes sure they're reported and listed.
In addition to legalities, our team always checks for medical credibility, good business practices, privacy practices and security, social impact, and the validity of any health claims a brand makes about a product. At-home testing services are required to abide by telehealth standards in the following circumstances:
With dozens of at-home testing kits available, it can be hard to choose the right one. After all, what does a good at-home STD test kit look like? What should it entail? What do you need?
There's no one-size-fits-all answer. Your needs will vary, depending on your situation and circumstances. Also, they may change over time.
This chart can help you determine which type of home test is right for you.
If you think you'll need help determining results from your test, taking an in-office test may be preferable. It's an immediate source of information, and an action plan can be created on-site in the case of a positive result.
Also, be sure the test you choose is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). To determine whether the FDA approves a product, you can check the FDA's website.
At-home STD tests arrive with all the tools needed to collect a sample, such as:
You might need to provide a blood or urine sample or perform a rectal, oral, or vaginal swab. It's best to return the samples the same day you take them. The company then sends your test results through your online account, usually within 1 to 7 days.
While every home STD testing service is different, most brands recommended here offer professional advice or support for reading your test results at home.
If you do a fully-at-home STD test, there's a risk you'll misinterpret your results. Lab-based tests can also be difficult to interpret without a medical background.
As such, it's best to opt for a testing service where you have access to a healthcare professional who can discuss your results with you. They can help you interpret your results and advise on treatments and next steps.
Talk with a healthcare professional if one of your partners has recently tested positive for an STD or STI or if you're experiencing possible symptoms of an STI.
The CDC recommends STD screenings from a healthcare professional in the following cases:
If you have an STI but are experiencing more or worsening symptoms, like genital discharge or urinary symptoms, you can contact a healthcare professional to further evaluate your symptoms.
The CDC makes the following additional recommendations for screening:
Our roundup of at-home STD tests is a good starting point if you want to get tested without contacting a doctor.
Depending on the test, you may need to visit a lab for collection. Every other part of the process, including the lab order, payment, and results, is done online.
If you receive a positive test result, the testing kit company may offer a consultation with one of their doctors. During that consultation, you can discuss any next steps, such as further testing or treatment.
At this point, it's also a good idea to contact your primary care doctor to share your results.
Our roundup of at-home STD tests is a good starting point if you want to get tested without contacting a doctor.
Depending on the test, you may need to visit a lab for collection. Every other part of the process, including the lab order, payment, and results, is done online.
If you receive a positive test result, the testing kit company may offer a consultation with one of their doctors. During that consultation, you can discuss any next steps, such as further testing or treatment.
At this point, it's also a good idea to contact your primary care doctor to share your results.
How do at-home and lab-direct STD tests work?With both at-home and lab-direct tests, you'll provide a sample. The samples may include:
The samples are submitted to a lab, and results are shared discreetly.
If you receive a positive STD result, contact your primary care clinician to discuss the best treatment option for you. Also, be prepared to notify any partners of the positive result.
With both at-home and lab-direct tests, you'll provide a sample. The samples may include:
The samples are submitted to a lab, and results are shared discreetly.
If you receive a positive STD result, contact your primary care clinician to discuss the best treatment option for you. Also, be prepared to notify any partners of the positive result.
How can I tell if I have an STD without going to the doctor?An at-home test may confirm whether you have an STD, but it's important to contact a doctor if you have symptoms of a possible infection. These symptoms may include:
An at-home test may confirm whether you have an STD, but it's important to contact a doctor if you have symptoms of a possible infection. These symptoms may include:
The CDC recommends that people ages 13 to 64 get tested for HIV at least once a year as part of their routine health checkup.
The CDC also recommends that sexually active women younger than 25 years get tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year.
In addition, the CDC suggests that pregnant people get tested early in their pregnancy for:
Sexually active men who have sex with men may want to also get tested for syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea annually.
If you experience symptoms at any time, don't wait to get tested. The quicker you're tested, the sooner you can begin treatment.
The CDC recommends that people ages 13 to 64 get tested for HIV at least once a year as part of their routine health checkup.
The CDC also recommends that sexually active women younger than 25 years get tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year.
In addition, the CDC suggests that pregnant people get tested early in their pregnancy for:
Sexually active men who have sex with men may want to also get tested for syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea annually.
If you experience symptoms at any time, don't wait to get tested. The quicker you're tested, the sooner you can begin treatment.
Are STD tests accurate?Most modern STD tests are highly accurate. Still, test accuracy can vary, depending on the type of sample and the test detection method.
Traditional in-office tests are more accurate than fully online tests, and home-to-lab tests are more accurate than self-collected tests. But all are highly efficient.
Most modern STD tests are highly accurate. Still, test accuracy can vary, depending on the type of sample and the test detection method.
Traditional in-office tests are more accurate than fully online tests, and home-to-lab tests are more accurate than self-collected tests. But all are highly efficient.
How reliable are at-home STD tests?While in-office STD tests may be considered the most reliable, the at-home test kits on our list also have a reputation for being highly accurate.
It's important that you don't rely on home testing in place of contacting a doctor if you have any possible symptoms of an STD or STI or have other important questions about your overall health.
While in-office STD tests may be considered the most reliable, the at-home test kits on our list also have a reputation for being highly accurate.
It's important that you don't rely on home testing in place of contacting a doctor if you have any possible symptoms of an STD or STI or have other important questions about your overall health.
Does insurance cover STD tests?Most insurance plans cover the cost of STD tests, as these tests are considered preventive and covered under the Affordable Care Act. But whether your plan covers a specific STD test depends on several factors, including your:
Also, the coverage of at-home tests varies.
To learn more about your specific options, you can talk with a nurse, a doctor, or your insurance company.
You can also find free or low cost STD testing sites across the country.
Most insurance plans cover the cost of STD tests, as these tests are considered preventive and covered under the Affordable Care Act. But whether your plan covers a specific STD test depends on several factors, including your:
Also, the coverage of at-home tests varies.
To learn more about your specific options, you can talk with a nurse, a doctor, or your insurance company.
You can also find free or low cost STD testing sites across the country.
Is STD testing free in Alabama?Yes. Alabama, as well as many other U.S. States, offer free, confidential testing and treatment options through the state's Department of Public Health in a variety of clinics and healthcare settings.
These STD testing options are in-person, not at-home. To find free testing sites near you, contact your local county health department.
Yes. Alabama, as well as many other U.S. States, offer free, confidential testing and treatment options through the state's Department of Public Health in a variety of clinics and healthcare settings.
These STD testing options are in-person, not at-home. To find free testing sites near you, contact your local county health department.
How do I get myself checked for STDs?Any one of the providers of at-home STD tests listed in this article is a good first step. You can order a test online and get results within a couple days. Either the provider or your regular healthcare professional can prescribe treatment if the test is positive.
You can also find free and low-cost in-person STD testing in your area through these resources:
Any one of the providers of at-home STD tests listed in this article is a good first step. You can order a test online and get results within a couple days. Either the provider or your regular healthcare professional can prescribe treatment if the test is positive.
You can also find free and low-cost in-person STD testing in your area through these resources:
Where can I buy a rapid std test?Not all online providers offer rapid tests, but many do promise quick service. For example, STDCheck promises results in 1–2 days and PrioritySTD in 1–3 days, when you are tested in their network facilities.
Processing of STD test kits takes time because it must be done in reliable labs and reviewed by qualified personnel. The testing process is fastest if you are able to visit a lab within the provider's network, rather than rely on the mail to receive and deliver tests.
Not all online providers offer rapid tests, but many do promise quick service. For example, STDCheck promises results in 1–2 days and PrioritySTD in 1–3 days, when you are tested in their network facilities.
Processing of STD test kits takes time because it must be done in reliable labs and reviewed by qualified personnel. The testing process is fastest if you are able to visit a lab within the provider's network, rather than rely on the mail to receive and deliver tests.
Testing for STDs and STIs regularly is important.
Testing can help prevent the transmission of STIs. It can also help you get the appropriate treatment options if you have a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection, as many STDs and STIs can be treated or cured.
Contacting a doctor or other healthcare professional is generally the most reliable way to know whether you've contracted an STI or have an STD. But an at-home test is an excellent alternative. For many, an at-home test is a confidential and convenient option.
Best Same Day STD Check: Get Results In 24-48 Hours
Best Same Day STD Check:
Life throws curveballs, and sometimes those curves involve worrisome questions about your sexual health. That's what happened to me recently. After a potential exposure, the "what ifs" started swirling, leading me to explore the world of same-day STD testing.
Here is the Best Same Day STD Check/Test In U.S.
Here's Our Best Pick For Same Day STD Check:STD Check.Com: (Fastest And Best Overall)
They have tested More than 1 Million Americans:Fast, secure, and completely confidential, STDCheck․com offers a lab-based at-home testing solution. The process involves ordering the test through phone or online channels and then visiting a facility for sample collection.
Opting for a lab-based approach ensures a more comprehensive examination compared to self-collected tests. With 4,500 locations nationwide, STDCheck․com provides convenient access to their services.
Individual tests can be ordered within the range of $24 to $99, but the company's 10 Test Panel stands out as their most comprehensive option.
For those with concerns about recent exposure, an additional feature includes the HIV RNA Early Detection Test. This test is capable of detecting HIV transmission as early as 9 to 11 days after exposure.
Fun fact I also got tested by them and the overall experience was quite good.
See Their More Reviews And Prices
iDNA: (Takes at least 2-7 Days For Testing Results)iDNA provides various STI tests, including one for Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma, bacteria linked to bacterial vaginosis. You can do the test at home since it involves self-collection, meaning no need to go to a lab for results.
They also offer two combo tests and a customizable bundle starting at $78, making it convenient for testing multiple STIs compared to ordering tests separately.
Their pre-set bundles are:
● Complete Test ($298): Includes 10 STI tests for chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, syphilis, herpes 2, hepatitis C, HIV 1/2, HPV, Mycoplasma, and Ureaplasma.
● Standard Test ($198): Includes 7 STI tests for chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, syphilis, herpes 2, hepatitis C, and HIV 1/2.
iDNA also offers memberships. For $24.99 per month, you get discounted tests, affordable doctor consultations, and one free monthly test. The $49.99 per month membership offers the same benefits with the choice of a free doctor's consultation or a free test every month.
Everlywell: (Take minimum of 2-5 Days For Testing Results)Everlywell provides STD kits designed for both males and females. The at-home STD kit for females involves a simple finger prick and a vaginal swab to test for six common STDs. Each kit includes instructions, sample collection materials, prepaid shipping, and provides digital and printable results.
Apart from kits, Everlywell offers individual tests for trichomoniasis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis C, syphilis, and HIV.
All Everlywell tests undergo review and approval by an independent board-certified doctor in your state. In case of positive results, Everlywell connects you with their independent physician network at no extra cost to discuss questions and explore treatment options.
Nurx: (Takes Minimum of 5-7 Days For Testing Results)While self-collected samples may not match lab quality, Nurx maintains accuracy by collecting fluids from different areas like a vaginal swab, throat swab, and rectal swab. This allows testing for oral and anal STDs that might be overlooked otherwise.
Nurx offers three at-home test kits:
● Healthy Woman Kit ($190): Tests for common infections in people with vaginas, including HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis.
● Basics Covered Kit ($150): Suitable for those who've had comprehensive testing and want a checkup. It includes testing for HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis.
● Full Control Kit ($220): A comprehensive test for those who haven't been tested before or in over a year. It covers HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and hepatitis C.
These tests are usually covered by insurance, and Nurx can bill your plan directly or you can pay out of pocket. With insurance, the cost is $75 for the test kit, shipping both ways, and a $15 medical consultation fee.
After collecting your samples, Nurx bills your insurance directly for the lab testing cost. Without insurance, refer to the rates for each kit mentioned above. These prices include the test kit, lab work, and shipping.
myLABBox: (Takes minimum of 3-5 days for Testing Results)myLAB Box provides a variety of at-home STD kits:
● Safe Box ($169): Tests for chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, and HIV (1 and 2).
● Total Box ($369–$389): The most comprehensive test includes conditions from the Safe Box, plus hepatitis C, herpes type 2, syphilis, Mycoplasma genitalium, and HPV (optional for those over 30).
● Uber Box ($199): An 8-panel test for common STIs, covering HIV (1 and 2), hepatitis C, herpes type 2, syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis.
● V-Box ($189): A vaginal test pack for atypical discharge causes, testing for yeast, bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea.
● Love Box – Couple's Kit ($378): Comprehensive 8-panel testing for couples, covering HIV (1 and 2), hepatitis C, herpes type 2, syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis, with vaginal swab, urine collection, and blood test.
In addition, individual tests are available for each STD or STI, providing answers without the need for a lab visit or doctor's office copays.
Each kit includes a single-use collection kit, instructions, a specimen bag, and a prepaid return envelope.
Why Trust Us?Selecting a Same day STD check involves careful consideration of various factors, prompting us to consult with experts in the field.
Our endorsement of products and collaboration with brands are contingent on rigorous evaluation by our dedicated team. Any legal issues, recalls, or regulatory actions pertaining to these products or companies are meticulously researched and reported by our vetting team.
Beyond legal considerations, our team meticulously assesses medical credibility, ethical business practices, privacy and security measures, societal impact, and the veracity of health claims made by a brand about its products. In adherence to telehealth standards, at-home testing services must meet the following criteria:
● Certified under Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) and/or Certified Analytics Professional (CAP)
● Provision of guidance for customers who receive positive STD test results
● Availability of prescription services in the event of positive test outcomes
● Accessibility of physician orders for in-person lab testing where necessary
How Fast Can You Get STD Results? For Same Day STD CheckThe speed of receiving STD test results can vary depending on several factors, including the type of test used and the lab processing the sample. Here's a breakdown of the turnaround times for different testing methods:
Rapid Tests:
● Chlamydia and Gonorrhea: These can be detected with rapid tests using urine or swab samples, often with results available in 15-30 minutes.
● HIV: Rapid HIV tests using oral swab or finger prick samples can provide results in 20 minutes to 1 hour. However, these may not be as accurate as traditional blood tests, and a confirmatory test is usually recommended.
Traditional Blood Tests:
● Most other STDs, such as syphilis, hepatitis B and C, herpes, and trichomoniasis, require blood tests or cultures that take several days to a week for results. This is because these tests need to detect the presence of antibodies or the actual virus/bacteria in the sample, which takes time to grow in a culture.
Factors Affecting Result Speed for Same Day STD Check:
● Test availability: Not all clinics or testing facilities offer same-day testing for all STDs. Some tests may also require specialized equipment or expertise that's not readily available everywhere.
● Lab processing time: The time it takes for the lab to process the sample and deliver the results can vary depending on their workload and available resources. This could range from a few hours to several days.
● Delivery method: You can usually choose to receive your results electronically through a patient portal or by phone/email notification. In some cases, you may need to visit the clinic in person to pick up your results.
Can An STD Show Up In 24 Hours?It's highly unlikely that an STD will show up in just 24 hours after exposure. The time it takes for symptoms or test results to show up varies greatly depending on the specific STD and the individual's body. Here's a breakdown:
Timeframe for Symptoms for Same Day STD Check:
● Some STDs: Like chlamydia and gonorrhea, may cause symptoms within 2-10 days after exposure, but sometimes not at all.
● Other STDs: Like syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis, can take weeks, months, or even years to develop noticeable symptoms.
Therefore, it's highly improbable for an STD to show up in just 24 hours, both in terms of symptoms and test results.
However, if you're concerned about potential exposure to an STD, it's still crucial to get tested. Even if you don't have symptoms yet, early detection and treatment are essential to prevent complications and protect your sexual partners.
Remember, your sexual health is important. Don't hesitate to reach out for help if you have any concerns.
Do Positive Std Results Take Longer? Same Day STD CheckNo, positive STD test results generally don't take longer than negative results. In fact, some situations might lead to positive results being available slightly faster:
● Confirmation testing: Laboratories usually run a second test to confirm any positive results for accuracy. This additional step might add a few hours to the process, but it doesn't significantly delay your overall result time.
● Prioritization: Some labs might prioritize processing positive results to ensure prompt treatment for diagnosed individuals. However, this isn't a standard practice and shouldn't lead to a significant delay in negative results.
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