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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 At-home Syphilis Tests Of 2024, According To Health Experts
The syphilis epidemic in the United States is at an all-time high, according to a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Data collected by the CDC shows that cases of syphilis and congenital syphilis increased by nearly 80% between 2018 and 2022. One possible explanation for the increase is that syphilis can often go unnoticed, says registered nurse Lauren Thayer, who adds that "some symptoms are mild or even nonexistent, which is why it's important to get tested if you suspect you may have an infection."
While the highest number of cases were reported in people between the ages of 20 and 34, Dr. Alyssa Dweck, chief medical officer at Bonafide Health, tells us another concerning factor driving the surge in cases she's seen in her practice is among perimenopausal and menopausal women. "Many women are engaging with new partners due to divorce or being widowed," she says, noting that since pregnancy is no longer a concern, they may forgo the use of condoms.
If going to your doctor or a clinic to discuss concerns about possible exposure to a sexually transmitted disease (STD) or sexually transmitted infection (STI) is uncomfortable and keeping you from testing, at-home and in-lab syphilis tests and full-panel at-home STD tests are available to discreetly provide you with answers and treatment options without setting foot in a doctor's office or clinic. "Remote testing is great," says Dr. Barbara Van Der Pol, director of the UAB STD Diagnostics Laboratory, but it's important to do your research. "There are some bad actors preying on consumers."
To help you find the best at-home syphilis test for your needs, our team consulted with a panel of sexual health doctors and medical experts to better understand what to look for in the best syphilis tests and what to avoid. We considered 15 tests from reputable companies and rated each based on ease of use, accuracy, whether the test was fully in-home or required a trip to the lab, cost and if medical consultations with treatment plans were available. Keep reading to learn which four made the cut.
Everlywell
Cost: $69Tests for: SyphilisTime until results: 3-5 daysTest collection method: Finger prickDoctor consultation available: Yes, for positive resultsAccepts insurance: NoFSA/HSA eligible: Yes
Everlywell — featured on Shark Tank in 2017 — has become a dominant force in the at-home test market. The company offers affordable and accessible laboratory testing for various areas of health and wellness, including cardiovascular, endocrine, immune and sexual health. When it comes to sexual health, there are eight STI and STD tests available, ranging from a full-panel STD test ($169) that screens for a combination of chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis C, HIV and trichomoniasis to at-home tests designed to screen for only one STD or STI, such as syphilis, HIV or hepatitis C.
Everlywell's syphilis test is a treponemal test, which means it detects antibodies to Treponema pallidum, the bacterium that causes syphilis. Since these antibodies are produced only in response to a syphilis infection, this type of test — also known as a confirmatory test — is extremely reliable. It's also incredibly convenient. Everlywell tests come with clear instructions — both written and video tutorials — and extra lancets in case you need them. Once the test arrives, you'll collect a small sample of blood with the enclosed lancet and vial and then mail the sample to the lab using the prepaid shipping materials included with the test kit. The sample is analyzed at a CLIA-certified lab, and within three to five days of lab receipt, your test results will be delivered electronically via a private portal. If your results are positive, there's a free physician consultation option included with the purchase of the test to discuss next steps.
ProsNurx
Cost: $44.50 with insurance; $150 out of pocketTests for: Syphilis, HIV, chlamydia and gonorrheaTime until results: 7 days after lab receiptTest collection method: Finger prick and urine sampleDoctor consultation available: YesAccepts insurance: YesFSA/HSA eligible: Yes
In general, the majority of at-home test companies do not accept insurance: Nurx is the exception. While the sign-up process is easy, as is using your insurance to cover the test, prior to ordering the test you must have a medical consultation with a Nurx provider, which costs $30 out of pocket — the fee for the initial consultation also includes unlimited messaging with a medical team for a year about your test or results. After you order the test, the kit will arrive in a discreet package with everything you need for the sample collection and prepaid postage to mail your sample for processing by Nurx's CLIA-certified lab. A medical provider will contact you within seven days after lab receipt to review your results and prescribe medication if needed. It's really that simple!
There are three STD tests available that screen for syphilis in addition to other STIs, all of which cost as little as $44.50 with insurance:
Basics Covered Kit — $44.50 with insurance; $150 without insurance — screens for syphilis, HIV, chlamydia and gonorrhea.
Healthy V Kit — $44.50 with insurance; $190 out of pocket — screens for syphilis, throat chlamydia, throat gonorrhea and trichomoniasis.
Full Control Kit — $44.50 with insurance; $220 out of pocket — screens for syphilis, HIV, genital, throat and rectal chlamydia, genital, throat and rectal gonorrhea and hepatitis C.
Pros
STD Check
Cost: $49Tests for: SyphilisTime until results: 1-2 daysTest collection method: Blood sampleDoctor consultation available: Yes, for positive resultAccepts insurance: NoFSA/HSA eligible: Yes
Unlike the other options on our list, with STDCheck, sample collection isn't done at home but rather in person at an affiliated local lab. After ordering your test online, you'll immediately schedule an appointment to visit one of the 4,500 testing centers available nationwide, where a professional will collect the sample for you. While that's not quite as convenient as the home-collection test kits, it may be beneficial for those who are uncomfortable drawing the blood sample or are concerned about making an error during sample collection.
But the real benefit comes with the turnaround time: Results are ready in just one to two days since you do not have to tack on the usual two- to four-day wait time due to mailing the sample to the lab. Better yet, if you can find a lab in your area offering same-day appointments, you may be able to get your results in 24 hours.
If the test results are positive, you can schedule a free virtual doctor consultation to discuss the results and treatment options.
STDCheck offers both an individual syphilis test ($49) and a 10-panel test that screens for syphilis along with HIV (type 1 and 2), herpes (type 1 and 2), hepatitis A, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, chlamydia and gonorrhea ($139).
ProsHealthLabs
Cost: $49 (or less with price match guarantee)Tests for: SyphilisTime until results: 1-3 daysTest collection method: Blood sampleDoctor consultation available: Yes, for $95 feeAccepts insurance: NoFSA/HSA eligible: Yes
HealthLabs.Com offers an extensive list of at-home and in-lab tests, with the majority being budget-friendly with fast, accurate options — all the things you want in an STI test for syphilis. The syphilis test is a rapid plasma reagin (RPR) test that searches for antibodies found in the cells damaged by the syphilis infection. You'll start by ordering your test online, and then you'll make an appointment at one of the affiliated labs for a day and time convenient for you — you may even be able to make a same-day appointment. If your test is positive, you can pay an additional $95 for a virtual doctor consultation to discuss and obtain treatment options.
Something we really like about HealthLabs.Com, and ensures it maintains its title for being the most budget-friendly at-home and in-lab testing company, is that it offers a 110% price guarantee, so if you find a test from another company at a lower price, HealthLabs will match it and give you an additional 10% discount. You can
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