STI Testing in 2024: Free, Low Cost, At-Home, and More
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:
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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.
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What Is Eye Syphilis? The Severe Symptom Doctors Are Seeing Amid The STD Epidemic
Doctors are seeing more patients with unusual vision and eye symptoms due to the sexually transmitted infection
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Amid the current syphilis "epidemic" in the U.S., doctors are seeing more patients with unusual vision and eye symptoms due to the sexually transmitted infection.
A January 2024 CDC report stated that more than 207,000 Americans were diagnosed with syphilis, the highest number reported since the 1950s.
Syphilis is a bacterial infection that is usually spread through sexual contact, according to the Mayo Clinic, and usually presents as painless sores that spread the disease. Although it often goes undetected, the CDC says that it's important to seek medical care to prevent the infection from progressing to the next, more dangerous stage.
If left untreated, the infection can lead to cases of ocular syphilis.
General symptoms of ocular syphilis include red eyes, spots in your vision (eye floaters), eye pain, light sensitivity, abnormal eye movements, blurred vision or vision loss, lesions on the eyes, and painless sores on the eyelid, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
On April 24 at the 2024 Epidemic Intelligence Service Conference, researchers presented a new study finding that there were more than two dozen cases with these kinds of symptoms in Chicago last year, with a third of those cases being in the early stages of the infections, CNN reports.
Although vision loss is a symptom that can be associated with syphilis, it is typically only seen at much later phases.
"Providers definitely need to be screening more and be aware that this is what we're seeing," lead study author Dr. Amy Nham, who works with the Chicago Department of Public Health, told CNN.
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ADAM GAULT/SPL/Getty Images A doctor examines a patient's eyes.
Related: Why Are So Many People Getting Syphilis? An Expert Explains the Uptick in Cases
The study stated that the most common symptoms reported by patients were headache, personality changes, altered mental status and eye problems like vision loss, light sensitivity or eye swelling, per the outlet.
"They're not the most specific symptoms, which is why it's really important that providers are doing appropriate screening and asking patients for risk factors," Nham added.
Additionally, a CDC case report published November 2023 also revealed a cluster of five cases of ocular syphilis in Michigan, all in women with a common male sexual partner.
The five women, aged 40-60, all received a diagnosis of ocular syphilis after reporting symptoms including blurred vision, headache, hearing loss, double vision, eye floaters, and light sensitivity.
"Patients are very surprised, and most of the lay public doesn't think of syphilis involving the eye," Dr. Rahul Khurana, spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology, told TODAY. "Untreated syphilis in the eye is devastating because it can lead to blindness."
Khurana told the outlet that patients are typically treated with an intravenous antibiotic for 10 to 14 days and an anti-inflammatory medication. He urged eye doctors to keep a "high index of suspicion" and rule out syphilis when patients have any eye inflammation.
"With the incidence of STDs and syphilis on the rise in the community, I think everyone should be aware of it," Khurana added.
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5 Best At-Home STD Tests For 2024
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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.
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