16 Oral and Anal STI Testing FAQs: How To, How Often, More
Where To Get Tested For STDs: What Are The Options?
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STIs are common infections that people may unknowingly transmit. People may choose to see their doctor or visit a sexual health clinic for an STI test, while others may prefer at-home tests.
Rather than use the older term sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), many doctors now tend to refer to these conditions as sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Either term refers to conditions that can pass from person to person through sexual contact.
Early detection and treatment are vital to prevent transmission and complications.
Regular testing is important, and healthcare professionals can advise about STI tests. Many quick, safe, and readily available tests can help prevent further transmission and health complications. If people do not feel comfortable doing so, many clinics, pharmacies, or services can provide confidential and free or low-cost testing.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 5 people in the United States has an STI, with almost half affecting young people 14–24 years. Treatments are readily available so people can receive help as early as possible.
Learn more about STIs here.
Why people should test for STIsRoutine testing for STIs is essential, as early detection and treatment can help prevent health complications. Many people may consider an STI test after noticing symptoms. However, some people may not be aware they have an STI, as some conditions, such as chlamydia, may not present any symptoms.
If left untreated, some STIs can result in long-term health problems. For example, in addition to causing discomfort, some STIs may result in infertility, birth complications, and some cancers.
Each STI has a different incubation period, referring to how long it takes for symptoms to appear. In some cases, tests can detect an STI after a few days, while other STIs may not show up on a test for many months. Many STIs are treatable with early detection, and medications are available to help manage the symptoms of others.
Learn more about how long chlamydia symptoms take to show.
Who should have a test for STIs?The CDC advises that sexually active people have an STI test once a year. However, some people may have different testing requirements, so a doctor or another health professional may help determine which tests a person needs.
Some doctors suggest that people who may be at higher risk, such as during pregnancy or those with multiple or anonymous partners, may require more frequent testing.
Learn about contracting an STI here.
What STIs should people test for?Typically, sexual health clinics test for the more common STIs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. If people know that a previous partner has tested positive for a specific STI, it is advisable to get tested for the same STI. A person can also discuss their sexual and STI testing history with a healthcare professional, who can offer help and suggestions about appropriate tests.
To get a reliable test result, people should perform the test within a specific timeframe after exposure due to incubation periods. Below are some common STIs and their testing windows:
Learn more about how long it takes for STI symptoms to develop.
Medicare, Medicaid, and most insurance plans typically cover some STI tests as part of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Some people may choose to see their doctor or visit a sexual health clinic for an STI test, while others may prefer at-home tests. A 2019 study notes that at-home testing kits are becoming more available and are likely to contribute to higher rates of testing and treatments.
Individuals have many options for STI testing, some of which include:
Doctor's officeMost primary health providers have facilities to screen for STIs. Depending on the history and exam results, a health professional can collect samples through swabs, urine, or blood samples.
Some clinics can test the sample on-site, while others send the samples to a laboratory. People can expect results within a few days to a week. Depending on the results, doctors may prescribe antibiotics or antiviral medications.
However, visiting a doctor for STI screening and treatment may be expensive and may range from $50–200 without health insurance coverage. People should check their insurance coverage and co-pays first before visiting their doctor.
City health centers and community clinicsSome city health centers or community clinics may offer testing services. Many offer both appointment and walk-in services.
Aside from free testing and treatment for STIs, health centers also provide pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a preventive treatment for HIV. They may also offer family planning services, counseling, and free condoms for STI protection.
Urgent care centersMany urgent care centers can offer discreet, immediate diagnosis and treatment for individuals who do not want to go to their primary care provider. However, some of these centers do not have lab or diagnostic testing capacities.
Urgent care doctors will also provide the appropriate medications. However, if the STI has progressed beyond what prescription medication can treat, it may be necessary for individuals to follow up with their health providers.
Most insurance companies cover urgent care visits, but most often, individuals need to pay a deductible.
Pharmacies and big-box retailersMost pharmacies, such as Walgreens and CVS, and big-box retailers, such as Target and Walmart, sell home-test kits for STIs. However, a person should know which STIs they are checking for before buying.
Some grocery and pharmacy chains also have low cost health clinics that may also provide STI testing. However, unlike at-home tests, these kits may only test for a limited range of STIs.
Lab-based tests and at-home testsSome providers, such as QuestDiagnostics, allow people to choose whether to buy at-home test kits or to schedule an appointment online and perform a test in person in one of their labs. Other providers, such as Everlywell and LetsGetChecked, allow a person to choose a specific test from a range of tests available on their website.
The costs of kits vary according to the type of test and the provider but typically range from $49–249, with more expensive options testing for a wider range of STIs.
Most insurance providers do not cover at-home test kits. However, most accept flexible savings account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA) payments.
Samples from at-home tests undergo the same analysis as lab tests and are just as accurate. However, it is important to carefully follow the instructions for how to collect and store the samples.
Below is a comparison of the providers mentioned above:
Use code "HEALTHLINE25" for 25% off at Everylywell.
Read more about at-home STI tests here.
Local Planned Parenthood health centerPlanned Parenthood health centers also offer STI testing. They receive government reimbursements and grants from public programs, such as Medicaid and Title X, which means people can get STI testing and treatment for free or at a very low cost, depending on their income, demographics, and eligibility.
OthersStudents enrolled at universities can visit their student health centers, which may supply STI tests for roughly $10–20. Most cities also have LBGTQ+ community centers that can help with STI testing.
Mobile reproductive health centers can also offer community-based STI screenings and other reproductive health services to migrants, people from low-income households, people who do not have insurance, people from marginalized groups, people living in rural areas, and others. This Mobile Health Map provides a list of participating mobile health clinics throughout the U.S.
Most STI tests only require a urine, blood, or swab sample and do not typically require the assistance of a health professional. However, a healthcare professional will need to carry out a Pap smear, which checks for human papillomavirus (HPV), to ensure the safety and accuracy of the test. If a person is experiencing symptoms, such as warts, sores, or lesions, it is advisable to talk with a doctor.
Also, while individuals can order most tests online or buy them in stores, some states require a doctor's order to authorize a lab test.
Below we look at some common questions and answers relating to STI testing.
How much do STI tests cost?Most insurance plans will cover some form of STI testing, but some tests, such as the at-home STI tests mentioned in this article, typically range from $49–250.
How are STI tests done?Typically, STI tests require either a urine, blood, or swab sample from the mouth, genitals, or anus. Some STI tests require a combination of samples.
How long do STI tests take?Except for rapid HIV tests, which can show results in about 20 minutes, most other STI test results take between 2 days to 1 week.
How much is STI testing at Planned Parenthood?Planned Parenthood offers STI testing at a reduced cost, or sometimes free, depending on an individual's eligibility.
Does urgent care do STI tests?Yes, urgent care does STI tests and can also provide appropriate antibiotic and antiviral medications.
Usually, a person can manage and treat STIs with early detection and intervention.
There are many STI testing options available that allow people to test themselves routinely. Untreated STIs can cause permanent damage to a person's reproduction and health.
In addition to regular testing, it is important to use condoms or other barrier birth control methods during sex to prevent transmitting and contracting an STI.
Learn more about male and female condoms here.
How Do STD Tests Work?
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Testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can help keep you and your partners safe. Here's what to know about who should test and when.
If you're sexually active, you're potentially at risk for a sexually transmitted infection (STI). This is even more likely if you don't use protection.
While STIs are easily treatable, they don't always have symptoms so often go unnoticed. Complications of untreated STIs can have serious consequences, including infertility. They can also lead to sexually transmitted disease (STD).
That's why STD testing is so important, and regularly if you have multiple partners. Here's what else you need to know.
The difference between STDs, or sexually transmitted diseases, and STIs is often muddled.
Sexually transmitted infections occur when bacteria, parasites, or viruses enter the body. This process happens before a sexually transmitted disease develops.
And while STDs stem from STIs, having an STI does not necessarily mean you'll develop a disease from that infection. An STI can be asymptomatic (without disease), but if symptoms or clinical manifestations develop, it becomes an STD.
As we mentioned, some infections may show no symptoms, so testing is very important for preventing the spread of STIs. On the other hand, a disease typically has more clear-cut signs or symptoms.
If you've been sexually active, it's a good idea to be tested for STIs. Also, get tested if:
If you're in a long-term, mutually monogamous relationship and both you and your partner were tested before entering the relationship, you may not need regular STI testing.
But many people in long-term relationships weren't tested before they got together. If that's the case for you and your partner, one or both of you may have been living with an undiagnosed STI for years. The safest choice is to get tested.
Talk with a doctor if you're concerned about a particular infection or symptom. The more honest you are, the better treatment you can receive.
Also know that many physicians don't regularly test patients for STIs, even during routine wellness exams; that's why it's important to ask your doctor for STI testing and ask which tests they plan to do and why.
Pregnant people also need to make testing a priority, as STIs can affect the fetus. Your doctor should screen for STIs, among other things, at your first prenatal visit, including syphilis, HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.
In addition to the above, the CDC offers the following guidelines for who and when someone should test.
There are a number of different STIs, and specific variables — like your birth-assigned gender and sexual history — come into play when deciding which to get tested for.
Your primary health care provider or your local health clinic can also recommend specific testing by learning more about your sexual history and lifestyle. You'll likely be encouraged to test for one or more of the following:
Your doctor probably won't offer to test you for herpes unless you have a known exposure or ask for the test.
STI testing is available at your doctor's office, or your local health clinic, pharmacy, or nearest Planned Parenthood center. For a comprehensive look at your options, see our guide on STI testing and locations.
Other options for testingSome people opt to use at-home STD testing kits. These kits allow you to test in your home's privacy by providing samples and sending them back to a lab for testing. If you test positive for an STI, your next step would be to contact a healthcare professional.
Most STIs can be detected through urine or blood samples. Depending on your sexual history, your health care provider may conduct a series of tests for STIs, which can also include swab tests. These can be performed on the mouth, vagina, penis, or anus, depending on the type of test necessary based on symptoms and sexual history.
HPV testingTo check for human papillomavirus (HPV), which is the most common STI, your doctor will order a separate HPV test.
People assigned female at birth who have persistent HPV infections, particularly infections by HPV 16 and HPV 18, are at an increased risk of developing cervical cancer. People who have anal sex can also develop anal cancer from HPV infections.
Although some STIs can come without symptoms, it's still good to watch for any signs of infection, even if they are very mild. For example, it's important to let a doctor know if you've noticed any changes on or around your genitals. If you have anal sex, also let them know about any changes on or around your anus and rectum.
See a doctor or healthcare professional right away if you notice any of these symptoms:
If you get a positive STI test result, it's important to follow up with your doctor for treatment. Also, make sure you inform any recent sexual partners, as some STIs can be transmitted back and forth. It's a good idea to consider how you want to tell your partners — while factoring in safety if that's a concern.
For example, a face-to-face conversation may be no big deal for some partners, while for others, it could pose harm if your partner has a history of emotional or physical aggression.
There are also anonymous, free options for sharing this information with partners if you prefer:
These options do not require the use of your personal information.
If you opt for a face-to-face conversation instead, it may be helpful to have relevant research and resources on hand. This way, you can answer any questions and discuss things with your partner, including treatment options, risks, incubation periods, etc.
It's also OK to feel a wide variety of emotions if you test positive. These feelings are normal, and you can talk with your doctor about any concerns you may have.
How do they test you for an STD?You may be tested for STDs through blood, urine, and swab (genital, oral, anal, or site-specific). The testing method depends on the type of test and your symptoms.
You may be tested for STDs through blood, urine, and swab (genital, oral, anal, or site-specific). The testing method depends on the type of test and your symptoms.
How do I get myself checked for STDs?You can get tested for STDs by visiting your primary health care provider, or your local health clinic, pharmacy, or Planned Parenthood location.
You may also consider purchasing an at-home STD test if you don't have access to in-person testing.
College students can usually get free STD testing through their school's affiliated health clinic.
You can get tested for STDs by visiting your primary health care provider, or your local health clinic, pharmacy, or Planned Parenthood location.
You may also consider purchasing an at-home STD test if you don't have access to in-person testing.
College students can usually get free STD testing through their school's affiliated health clinic.
What does a full STD panel include?Generally, testing checks for chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis B and C, trichomoniasis, syphilis, and HIV. People assigned female at birth can also be screened for HPV once they've turned 30 years old.
Generally, testing checks for chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis B and C, trichomoniasis, syphilis, and HIV. People assigned female at birth can also be screened for HPV once they've turned 30 years old.
What to do if you think you have an STD?If you think you have an STD, get tested right away and stop all sexual activity with partners until you've received your results.
If you test positive, get on the recommended treatment plan immediately and refrain from sex until treatment is complete.
Depending on the STD, you may have to wait several days after treatment before resuming sexual activity.
If you think you have an STD, get tested right away and stop all sexual activity with partners until you've received your results.
If you test positive, get on the recommended treatment plan immediately and refrain from sex until treatment is complete.
Depending on the STD, you may have to wait several days after treatment before resuming sexual activity.
STIs are common, and testing is widely available. The tests can vary depending on which STIs your doctor is checking for.
Talk with a doctor about your sexual history and ask which tests you should get. They can help you understand the potential benefits and risks of different STI tests. Doctors can also recommend appropriate treatment options if you test positive for any STIs.
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 fo
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