STI Testing in 2024: Free, Low Cost, At-Home, and More
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.
4 Normal Things That Happen When You Get Tested For STDs, So Don't Freak Out
Relationships
4 Totally Normal Things That Happen When You Get Tested For STDs, So You're Not Surprised
by Christy Piña
Updated: Feb. 20, 2024
Originally Published: November 8, 2018
Going in for STD testing can feel really scary if you've never done it before, but there's nothing actually scary about getting tested. It is such an important part of maintaining your regular sexual health, because ignorance isn't bliss when it comes to your body. If you don't really know what to expect, knowing some of the normal things that happen when you get tested for STDs may help ease the anxiety you may feel. Honestly? It's really NBD.
"You don't know if there is a problem unless you screen for it!" Dr. Sheila Loanzon, obstetrician and gynecologist, tells Elite Daily. "Majority of the STD testing done is negative, however you won't give yourself the peace of mind and reassurance of negative testing unless testing is completed. Often STD symptoms may be silent or asymptomatic, so don't let an opportunity pass you by. It is better to know and get treated than to miss out on an opportunity to be ahead of your health." Taking the fact that most testing comes out negative into consideration should be somewhat comforting. But you won't know for sure if it applies to you unless you keep your fears from taking over and do it.
"There are several ways that a patient can be tested for STDs," Dr. Loanzon says. "Generally, a lab order can be given to test blood for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B and C. To check for gonorrhea and chlamydia, an option may be to give a urine sample (read: no need to be seen in the office) versus a speculum exam in the vagina to obtain a cervical swab for a culture."
Now that you have a general understanding of what to expect when you go in for STD testing, here's a breakdown of what your STD screening process might look like.
01
Your provider will assess the risk factors.
Before even beginning the STD testing, your provider is going to ask you a few questions about your sex life to see if you're at risk of a possible STD. "Some risk factors may be a new sex partner in the past 60 days, multiple sex partners, inconsistent condom use, trading sex for money or drugs, sexual contact with sex workers — as well as risk factors such as age, history of prior STD, illicit drug use, and several other risks," Dr. Loanzon says.
02
If you decide to have a vaginal cervical screening, your provider will swab your cervix.
To screen for some STDs, you just need to get blood drawn, but for others you may need to have a cervical screening. "A speculum will be inserted inside the vagina and the swab placed inside the cervix," Dr. Loanzon explains. "The swab itself does not cause any pain, [though] some patients note discomfort when a speculum is inserted." So, keep that in mind if you decide you want to get a vaginal cervical screening for gonorrhea or chlamydia. Dr. Loanzon recommends getting tested for both of those annually if you're under 25 years old.
Once the swabbing is done, "the sample is sent off to the laboratory," she says. "The clinician may or may not do a pelvic exam to confirm there is no evidence of pelvic inflammatory disease," and then you're done with that part.
03
You will get your blood drawn.
If you decide to forgo the cervical screening, you'll be sent to the lab to get your blood drawn for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B, and C. After this, your STD testing is done!
04
You should have your results back in 24-48 hours.
Now that the actual testing is done, it's time to wait. When your provider gets the results, they "may choose to have you return to the office for your results, have someone from the office contact you, or complete another form of contact," Dr. Loanzon explains. "If a test result is positive, this result is reported to you, as well as the public health office in your community to track these infections to ensure the infection does not become a rampant public health epidemic."
While a lot of a STDs are included in routine blood testing or in cervical screenings, herpes isn't. Dr. Loanzan says, "It is important to speak to your health care provider if you believe you should have testing" for that particular STD.
If you're still nervous even after knowing what to expect, "it is helpful to know what aspect of testing is anxiety-inducing: Is it the blood draw, treatments for STDs, stigma or fear in your partner?" Dr. Loanzon asks. "Understanding what causes the issue for you may help you focus on how to ease your mind." It can also help to get tested with a friend or with your partner. "Don't let the STD or STD testing have power over you, getting the screening done puts power back in your hands."
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This article was originally published on 11.08.18
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.
Use code "HEALTHLINE25" for 25% off.
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 & consmyLAB 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 & consAlthough 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 & consUse code "HEALTHLINE25" for 25% off
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 & consQuick, 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 & consThough 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
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