STDs are sexist, and women are the losers. Here's why
5 Best At-Home STD Tests For 2024
We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here's our process.
How we vet brands and productsMedical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.
Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:Was this helpful?
The best at-home STD tests use CLIA-certified labs and can identify many STIs, including chlamydia and HIV. Companies such as Everlywell, LetsGetChecked, and Nurx offer convenient and discreet testing services.
Below, we look at five of the best STI tests people can order and complete at home.
Disclaimer: All the services tested below were tried by Medical News Today and Healthline editors, who received test kits for free. All opinions are their own.
Use code "HEALTHLINE25" for 25% off
MNT's reviewLetsGetChecked offers a range of multiple STI tests in collaboration with CLIA-certified laboratories. This test can identify the five most common STIs, making it a good option for those who want to regularly check their sexual health. LetsGetChecked states it is its most popular STI test.
The service provides a self-collection testing method, meaning individuals collect their sample at home and return it on the same day.
Those who require regular STI testing may purchase a 3-, 6- or 12-month subscription plan, which offers discounts of $104.30, $119.20, and $126.65, respectively.
People generally receive their results within 2–5 days. They may also contact a company nurse at any time if they wish to discuss their results and treatment.
LetsGetChecked offers prescriptions for medication, but the cost of this service is not included in the test price.
LetsGetChecked sells a range of at-home testing kits for STIs and other health concerns.
Learn more about LetsGetChecked.
Use code HEALTHLINE30 for 30% off.
What our tester says"I would recommend this product to MNT readers. It's an easily-accessible way to take tests that provide insight into your health. The ordering and testing process is very easy and relatively pain-free, and results come quickly. LetsGetChecked tests could be a great option for people who find it hard to get health tests done due to location or price, although they may be unsuitable for people on a very tight budget."
– Lois Zoppi, MNT Editor.
"I would recommend this product to MNT readers. It's an easily-accessible way to take tests that provide insight into your health. The ordering and testing process is very easy and relatively pain-free, and results come quickly. LetsGetChecked tests could be a great option for people who find it hard to get health tests done due to location or price, although they may be unsuitable for people on a very tight budget."
– Lois Zoppi, MNT Editor.
Use code "HEALTHLINE25" for 25% off.
MNT's reviewEverlywell offers a finger-prick sample collection, providing individuals with all the tools they need to take the test at home.
After mailing the sample to one of the company's CLIA-certified testing facilities, people receive their results on the company's website.
If a person requires regular testing, they could subscribe to a monthly, quarterly, or semi-annual subscription, which provides savings of 25, 20, or 15%, respectively.
Everlywell tests reportedly feature 99% accuracy, and if an individual receives a positive result, a physician may contact them to discuss the next steps.
Everlywell sells a range of at-home testing kits for STIs and other health concerns.
Read our Everlywell review.
What our tester says"I used the Everlywell STD panel test and found that collection was relatively easy, the instructions were extremely clear, and the results were fast. The results provided a lot of helpful (and easily understandable) context about what was being tested for.
I'd recommend Everlywell's tests to people who want to test themselves without having to go to the doctor. Whether they're too busy, needing to be discreet, or don't have insurance for a doctor's visit, this test can provide clarity, quickly."
— Laramy Applekamp, Healthline Content Project Manager
"I used the Everlywell STD panel test and found that collection was relatively easy, the instructions were extremely clear, and the results were fast. The results provided a lot of helpful (and easily understandable) context about what was being tested for.
I'd recommend Everlywell's tests to people who want to test themselves without having to go to the doctor. Whether they're too busy, needing to be discreet, or don't have insurance for a doctor's visit, this test can provide clarity, quickly."
— Laramy Applekamp, Healthline Content Project Manager
Pros & consNurx offers a range of screenings, including these three at-home tests for STIs:
The company says its labs have accreditations and approvals from CAP and CLIA and that it protects personal and health information according to the statutes of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA).
One advantage of choosing Nurx is that the company allows payments from insurance plans. While this lowers the cost of the test kit, there is also an additional $29.50 service fee for every kit. The service fee is $14.50 for those without insurance.
To buy a test, a person must fill out a health history questionnaire on the Nurx app or website. Next, the person selects their kit, with or without advice from the Nurx medical team.
Once the kit arrives, the person takes their samples, packages them in the prepaid envelope, and drops them in the mail. The company says it provides results within 7 business days.
Nurx does not offer free medical consultations. The company charges $15 for unlimited messaging with the medical team about test results.
Read our Nurx review.
Pros & consThe total box is the most comprehensive STI testing kit from myLAB BOX. It involves testing blood, saliva, and urine samples for 14 STIs.
The company states the labs involved have Certified Analytics Professional (CAP) and CLIA qualifications.
Using FDA-approved technology, the test screens for:
People over 30 can also be tested for human papillomavirus (HPV). This test costs $20 extra.
The company says that providing the samples takes 5 minutes and that results are available on a secure online platform within 2–5 days. It also offers free consultations with certified physicians to anyone with a positive result.
myLAB BOX sells a range of at-home testing kits for STIs and other health concerns.
Learn more about myLAB Box.
Pros & consOraQuick offers an at-home HIV test kit that only detects antibodies after 3 months of exposure to the virus.
This is the only at-home oral HIV test with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval.
The test kit includes a test stick that people use to swab their upper and lower gums. They then insert this into the test tube and read the result within 20–40 minutes.
People can order multiple packs at once for a discount.
OraQuick does not sell tests for other STIs.
Pros & consTelehealth options make it possible for a person to work directly with some labs to get an in-lab STD test. With an in-lab test STD test, a person knows their sample will be collected by a health professional and they have ready access to professional medical advice. However, in-lab STD tests also mean a person has to schedule a test, travel to the lab, and have less privacy.
People can get a full panel STD test kit that tests for 10 STIs:
The company states that it offers FDA-approved tests and works with CLIA-certified labs. Its medical team is available 24/7, so individuals who wish to ask questions can get in touch anytime.
Results are available within 2 days. Those who get a positive result can talk with an STDcheck doctor who may offer a prescription for $95.
The 10 test panel is available for $139, but the price increases to $259 for persons who want to add the HIV RNA Early Detection. This tests for HIV 9-11 days after exposure.
Pros & consThe table below compares the STI test kit brands listed above. The prices listed in this table are for one-time purchases without insurance.
Some advantages and disadvantages of at-home STI tests, compared with lab tests, include:
After receiving their test kit from an online provider, people can take the STI test with all the company's tools. This may include needles or lancets, swabs, collection tubes, alcohol wipes, bandaids, and a prepaid envelope.
An individual might need to take a blood or urine sample or a rectal, oral, or vaginal swab, depending on the STI test. They can then return their sample to a testing center through the mail.
Typically, companies will ask people to take and return their samples on the same day.
The company will then test the sample — usually at a CLIA-certified lab — and send a person's results through a secure online portal. People can then discuss their results with the company's medical team or a healthcare professional.
People should not make health decisions based on the results of an at-home test without first consulting a doctor.
The FDA states that at-home tests are cost-effective, fast, and confidential ways to test for health conditions at home. However, it warns that these tests should not replace regular care from a doctor. People can find FDA-approved at-home tests on the FDA website.
The accuracy of these tests may depend on the sample collection method, how quickly a person ships their sample back, and the lab that tests the sample.
To ensure accuracy and quality, a person should look for tests with Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA) certifications. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) claims that these are established quality standards for laboratory testing that offer an accreditation program for clinical labs.
Healthcare insurers, including Medicare and Medicaid, typically cover some or all STI testing costs. However, there are several places where a person may receive free or low cost STI screening, including:
Learn more about where to receive STI testing.
The CDC mentions that STI tests may benefit people with an increased risk of contracting a sexual infection. They include:
The CDC also states that taking an STI test during pregnancy may help prevent complications.
It is important to note that STIs do not always cause symptoms. However, people may wish to take a test if they experience:
Individuals may wish to take a test if they believe they have had exposure to an STI.
Some people may prefer to get tests done in person. This may be a more suitable option for those who feel uncomfortable collecting a sample themselves. Others may not want to have an STI test sent to their home.
Below, we list some of the best in-person STI testing options.
Some people may feel nervous talking about their STI results and may not know which questions to ask. Below are some examples that may help people discuss with a healthcare professional about their results.
Yes, many companies offer STI testing at home.
At-home testing often requires collecting a urine sample or a vaginal, rectal, or throat swab. People must then send these samples to the lab the company uses. Individuals will typically receive their results within 2 weeks of sending off their samples.
Yes, many companies offer STI testing at home.
At-home testing often requires collecting a urine sample or a vaginal, rectal, or throat swab. People must then send these samples to the lab the company uses. Individuals will typically receive their results within 2 weeks of sending off their samples.
Are at-home STD tests accurate?The Preventive Services Task Force states that at-home testing is highly accurate for chlamydia and gonorrhea.
While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not state how accurate self-testing is, it recommends healthcare professionals use at-home HIV tests as an additional strategy to encourage testing among gay and bisexual males.
While self-testing is accurate, people need to be aware that there is always the risk of collecting a sample incorrectly, leading to a potentially inaccurate result. If a person receives a result they do not understand or were not expecting, they can contact a healthcare professional for further advice.
The Preventive Services Task Force states that at-home testing is highly accurate for chlamydia and gonorrhea.
While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not state how accurate self-testing is, it recommends healthcare professionals use at-home HIV tests as an additional strategy to encourage testing among gay and bisexual males.
While self-testing is accurate, people need to be aware that there is always the risk of collecting a sample incorrectly, leading to a potentially inaccurate result. If a person receives a result they do not understand or were not expecting, they can contact a healthcare professional for further advice.
How do I get myself checked for STDs?If a person believes they have an STI, they should contact a doctor or clinic to arrange testing or purchase an at-home test kit.
Some clinics and organizations, such as Planned Parenthood, offer free or low cost testing.
Insurance covers most STI testing, but it is always worth checking with the insurance company before making an appointment. Many companies that offer at-home testing do not accept insurance.
Different STI testing will require different samples. However, people will typically need to collect a urine sample or a throat, rectal, or vaginal swab. Then, the samples will go to a lab where technicians will test for signs of STIs.
People will often receive their results within a couple of weeks. If a person goes through a clinic or doctor's office for testing, they will receive a prescription for medication if they receive a positive result.
Most companies offering at-home testing do not provide prescriptions with a positive result.
If a person believes they have an STI, they should contact a doctor or clinic to arrange testing or purchase an at-home test kit.
Some clinics and organizations, such as Planned Parenthood, offer free or low cost testing.
Insurance covers most STI testing, but it is always worth checking with the insurance company before making an appointment. Many companies that offer at-home testing do not accept insurance.
Different STI testing will require different samples. However, people will typically need to collect a urine sample or a throat, rectal, or vaginal swab. Then, the samples will go to a lab where technicians will test for signs of STIs.
People will often receive their results within a couple of weeks. If a person goes through a clinic or doctor's office for testing, they will receive a prescription for medication if they receive a positive result.
Most companies offering at-home testing do not provide prescriptions with a positive result.
What is a full panel STD test?A full-panel STI test screens for the most common STIs. Generally, these will look for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, hepatitis B and C, and HIV.
Some full panels may test for other STIs, such as trichomoniasis, herpes, and Gardnerella. However, these are likely to be more expensive.
A full-panel STI test screens for the most common STIs. Generally, these will look for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, hepatitis B and C, and HIV.
Some full panels may test for other STIs, such as trichomoniasis, herpes, and Gardnerella. However, these are likely to be more expensive.
Where can I get free STI testing?Free or heavily discounted STI testing may be available in the U.S. People can search the CDC database to find free tests nearby.
Certain foundations and nonprofit organizations also provide free testing. For example, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation offers this in over 28 locations nationwide.
Learn more about where to get free or low cost STI testing here.
Free or heavily discounted STI testing may be available in the U.S. People can search the CDC database to find free tests nearby.
Certain foundations and nonprofit organizations also provide free testing. For example, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation offers this in over 28 locations nationwide.
Learn more about where to get free or low cost STI testing here.
What happens if the result comes back positive?If a person gets a positive result from an STI test, the next step is to receive medical advice. A doctor can suggest a treatment plan to alleviate symptoms and prevent the infection from passing to others.
A healthcare professional can also guide any other sexual health concerns and describe ways of reducing the risk of getting or passing on STIs.
If a person gets a positive result from an STI test, the next step is to receive medical advice. A doctor can suggest a treatment plan to alleviate symptoms and prevent the infection from passing to others.
A healthcare professional can also guide any other sexual health concerns and describe ways of reducing the risk of getting or passing on STIs.
How do at-home STD tests protect privacy?This depends on the testing company's security and privacy measures, including HIPAA compliance. Some use internet encryption and discreet packaging and destroy samples and data after the test is complete and the person has seen their results.
An STI test can easily link back to a person through their DNA, so using a reputable service that protects personal information and healthcare data is crucial.
This depends on the testing company's security and privacy measures, including HIPAA compliance. Some use internet encryption and discreet packaging and destroy samples and data after the test is complete and the person has seen their results.
An STI test can easily link back to a person through their DNA, so using a reputable service that protects personal information and healthcare data is crucial.
An at-home STI test may suit people needing convenient, discreet STI testing. Various companies offer test bundles, consultations, and retests, and the results are generally available within a few days.
Follow the company's instructions carefully to increase the likelihood of an accurate result.
Sharing Is Not Caring: What To Know About STD Testing
When it comes to sexually transmitted diseases, sharing is definitely not caring. STDs affect approximately 1 in 5 Americans, with nearly half of new cases being diagnosed in patients ages 15 to 24. Chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, human papillomavirus and syphilis are just a few of the 30 different types of bacteria, viruses and parasites that can be spread during sexual intercourse. The only way to effectively mitigate the spread of these sexually transmitted infections is by getting tested by a licensed provider. Read on to find out more about STD testing so you can best protect yourself and those closest to you from infection.
Signs and symptoms of STDs
While many types of STDs are transmitted through sexual intercourse, diseases such as human papillomavirus and herpes can be spread through skin-on-skin sexual contact such as kissing. The cause of an STD varies by type, depending on if it is bacterial, viral or parasitic. Symptoms vary depending on the type of STD, but common warning signs include:
People are also reading…
It is common for patients with an STD to experience mild or no noticeable symptoms. That is why it's essential to get tested for STDs, as proper diagnosis is the only way to know for sure that you are free of any STDs.
STD testing methods
Depending on the type of STD a patient is being screened for, various testing methods may be used. Often, a provider will conduct several tests to ensure the accuracy of the diagnosis. STD testing methods include:
STD testing is typically painless and, depending on the type of test, patients can receive lab results within a few hours or a few days.
Preventing STDs
There are several ways to avoid contracting an STD. It is strongly recommended to use a latex or polyurethane condom, dental dam or other barrier method when engaging in any form of sexual intercourse. Experts also encourage washing before and after sexual intercourse. Sharing towels or underclothing with a sexual partner is strongly discouraged, as this can increase the risk of STD transmission. Getting the human papillomavirus vaccine is also strongly recommended, as it has proven to be highly effective at preventing infections by the HPV virus.
By taking preventive measures and knowing your STD status, you can help safeguard your sexual health and the health of your partners. Visit one of Midwest Express Clinic's 40+ locations today for quick and discreet STD testing, available seven days a week year-round. To find urgent care near you, visit midwestexpressclinic.Com/locations.
This content is provided for informational purposes only by the advertiser and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider for medical advice. Any views, thoughts or opinions in this paid post belong solely to the advertiser and do not represent the views of Brand Ave. Studios or its parent company. This content was produced by Brand Ave. Studios. The news and editorial departments had no role in its creation or display. Brand Ave. Studios connects advertisers with a targeted audience through compelling content programs, from concept to production and distribution. For more information contact sales@brandavestudios.Com.
Get local news delivered to your inbox!
Best At-home STD Kits For 2024
We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here's our process.
How we vet brands and productsHealthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.
Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:Was this helpful?
We personally tested and compared the best at-home STD tests available online and found that Everlywell offers users the best overall experience.
Regular testing for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and infections (STIs) is crucial for overall health.
STD rates have risen since the COVID-19 pandemic, with syphilis infections at a 70-year high. The Centers for Disease Prevention and Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) have issued warnings about this surge. Globally, over 1 million STIs are acquired daily, most without symptoms.
At-home STD testing kits offer convenience and accuracy. For a comprehensive check, consider an STD panel test. However, if you're concerned about a specific STD, a simple test may suffice and is often quicker and cheaper.
Here's some valuable information on at-home and private lab-based STD testing options, helping you choose the best test for your needs and knowing when to seek medical advice.
Use code "HEALTHLINE25" for 25% off.
Healthline's reviewEverlywell at-home STD test 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 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 toward any available Everlywell test.
What our tester saysOur market editor Christy Snyder tried 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 STD self-testing 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.
Our market editor Christy Snyder tried 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 STD self-testing 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.
Pros & consmyLAB Box offers a variety of at-home STD kits, including:
The service also sells individual tests for each STD or STI. These allow you to get the answers you need without visiting a lab or spending money on copays to visit a doctor's office.
Every package 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 get missed.
Nurx offers three at-home test kits. You'll also pay consult and service fees:
Insurance usually covers these tests, 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 copays or deductibles.
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:
Comments
Post a Comment