Exploring Your Options: A Comprehensive Guide to STD Testing

STD testing

If you’re sexually active, then you’re at risk for getting a sexually transmitted disease (STD), an infection that’s spread through sexual contact (oral, anal, or intercourse).

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are common, yet many people aren't aware they're infected. Many STDs are asymptomatic in the early stages. Testing is the only way to know if you have an STD for sure.

It may seem scary, but getting tested will bring relief, prevent complications that can develop with untreated STDs, and reduce the risk of spreading to others. STD testing is a critical component of disease prevention and health promotion. And just like any other medical test, it's a routine part of healthcare.

Who Should have a test for STDs?

The World Health Organization and other national institutes recommend regular STD testing for sexually active individuals. If you're sexually active, especially with multiple partners, you should get tested regularly. STDs can pass between partners who swap bodily fluids, so oral and anal sex, not just intercourse, puts you at risk.

When Should I Get Tested?

The frequency of STD testing varies depending on your sexual activity and other risk factors. If you have a new sexual partner, you should get should get tested before having sexual contact. You should also consider testing if you experience any potential STD symptoms or if your partner tests positive for an STD.

Screening for STDs if You’re Not Experiencing Symptoms

Certain STDs, like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and human papillomavirus (HPV infection), often have no symptoms at first, but they can lead to serious health complications if they’re not treated. Regular testing—consider at least annual testing—is your primary guard against STDs. Make it a part of your regular checkup. When you are tested, be sure to be honest about your sexual history to ensure that you get the correct tests.

What STDs Can You Get Tested For?

Understanding what STDs to test for is an essential aspect of disease prevention.

Screening Recommendations for Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common STD and a leading cause of several types of cancer. Some HPV types can lead to genital warts, while others can cause cancers of the cervix, vulva, vagina, penis, or throat. HPV testing is usually included in a woman’s checkup, often in conjunction with a pap smear that checks for abnormal cervical cells. The NIH recommends pap smears for women over 21 years old. There is no approved HPV test for men.

Screening Recommendations for Gonorrhea and Chlamydia

Gonorrhea and chlamydia are two of the most commonly transmitted STDs. They can cause pain in the genitals, rectum, and throat but are often asymptomatic. Thus, regular testing is necessary. Routine screening is recommended for sexually active women under age 25, while older women should get tested if they have multiple sexual partners. Men who have sex with men should also undergo regular testing. The screening typically involves a urine test or a swab of the affected area.

Screening Recommendations for Hepatitis B and C

Hepatitis B and C are viral STDs that lead to inflammation of the liver and can potentially cause severe complications if left untreated. Hepatitis B and C screening is recommended for adults at least once. Pregnant women are also routinely tested for both Hepatitis B and C.

Screening Recommendations for Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)

Herpes simplex virus, encompassing two types, HSV-1 (often oral herpes) and HSV-2 (usually genital herpes), is not typically part of regular STD screening due to both the high prevalence in the population and the potential for false positive results. Testing for HSV is usually only done when you have symptoms, or if you know you've been exposed to the virus.

Screening Recommendations for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

HIV can lead to AIDS if untreated, making regular screening essential. Everyone between the ages of 15 to 65 should have an HIV test at least once. People at high risk—those with multiple sex partners, a new partner, or men who have sex with men—should take an HIV test every year. HIV testing involves a simple blood or saliva test.

Screening Recommendations for Syphilis

Syphilis is a serious STD that can cause long-term complications if not treated properly. If you’re People who are sexually active, particularly gay men, are advised to test for syphilis regularly. Pregnant women should also be screened for syphilis to prevent congenital syphilis in newborns. Additionally, people with HIV should test for syphilis and other STDs regularly due to increased risks.

Where can I get an STD test?

There are many options for STD testing, from your primary healthcare provider to online and at-home options.

Healthcare provider’s office

Your primary care physician not only tackles colds and flu but is also qualified to take care of your sexual health. They can test for common STDs in their offices and, in some cases, provide treatment. If you’re feeling queasy, remember that your provider adheres to strict privacy policies and prioritizes disease prevention in their public health efforts.

Urgent care centers

Many urgent care centers offer immediate diagnosis and STD treatment. However, if the infection has progressed to requiring more extended treatment, they may guide you to a specialist. Fortunately, insurance companies usually cover the cost of urgent care visits.

City health centers and community clinics

City health centers and community clinics often provide testing for STDs, including viral STDs like hepatitis B and C, as well as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and herpes simplex virus. These are usually non-profits that work towards public health and disease control, so if cost is an issue, they may be the most affordable option.

Planned Parenthood health center

Your local Planned Parenthood is also an excellent resource for STD testing, as its focus is on promoting sexual health. The organization will screen for a variety of sexually transmitted diseases, and they can also provide resources for HPV infection prevention, including the HPV vaccine.

Pharmacies and big-box retailers

You can find at-home test kits for STDs at stores like Walgreens, CVS, and Walmart. Know what kind of test you’re looking for before purchasing, as some kits may only test for a limited range of STDs. Some of these stores, like CVS, even have low-cost health clinics that may offer STD testing.

Can I do an at-home STD test?

Yes, you can! At-home STD testing allows you to test discretely in your own home. The process is simple: you collect a sample of urine, blood, or oral fluid, then mail it to a laboratory for analysis. Most STD test results return within a week, often sooner, via email. If you test positive, many companies also offer support with a physician follow-up and a prescription.

How much does testing cost?

You’ll find that the cost of STD testing depends on many variables, from the kind of test to whether you have insurance to the convenience factor.

Your Doctor's Office or Urgent Care Center

Often, getting tested for STDs at a doctor's office or urgent care center can range from $50 to $200 without health insurance. Depending on your coverage, you may encounter copays or deductibles. Check with your insurance provider to understand the specifics of your plan.

Online Services

Online services like STDCheck and Nurx have emerged as powerful platforms for flexible, quick, and discreet STD testing. Nurx even provides an opportunity to engage in unlimited messaging with healthcare providers after paying a $15 consultation fee.

STDCheck and Nurx kits costs can start at $24 and $79, respectively, and reach upwards of $259 and $399. Results turnaround times range from 1-2 days for STDCheck and 2-5 days for Nurx.

Below is a comparison for your convenience:

Bear in mind that many of these services offer coupons, which can help offset the cost.

At-Home STD Testing Kits

Big-box retailers, pharmacies, and online outlets like Amazon all provide at-home STD tests. When it comes to at-home STD testing, you can pay less for individual tests (starting at around $45), but we recommend a comprehensive STD testing panel like the Everywell kit. The six-STD panel for men or women costs $169, while tests for one or two STDs cost $69. In California, insurance may cover these charges. If not, using an FSA/HSA card may be an option.

How do I get my results?

When you get tested for STDs at a clinic or doctor’s office, your sample will either be tested onsite or sent to a laboratory for analysis. You should expect your results within a few days to a week. Your waiting period may depend on the type of test conducted.

If you opt for at-home STD testing kits, once you've collected your sample —which could be a urine sample, oral or genital swab —you’ll send it to a CLIA-certified lab for analysis. The Everlywell STD test kit, for example, will send an email with the details of your test outcomes on a secure platform within a few days.

Be aware, though, that at-home tests may not always be entirely accurate. Results can be affected if the test is taken too soon after exposure to an STD or if you make a mistake in how you collect the sample. If you experience symptoms despite a negative result, contact your health provider or a public health clinic for verification.

Positive Test Results

Receiving a positive result will be a worrying experience. However, remember that a positive outcome isn't an end; it’s the start of your road to recovery.

It’s essential to follow up with a medical provider. Testing positive for an STD simply means that you've been exposed to the infection; it doesn't mean you'll suffer long-term health issues.

A positive test result means it's time for treatment. In some cases, STDs can be treated and completely cured with antibiotics or antiviral medications. Notably, antibiotics can also effectively treat bacterial STDs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. Meanwhile, antiviral drugs can manage incurable viral STDs like HIV and herpes, helping you lead a healthy life.

Whatever the results, you've made a positive step towards caring for your overall health and well-being. Remember to reach out to your health provider, a mental health professional, or a public health clinic if you're feeling anxious or stressed about your result. It's okay to seek help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I get tested for a sexually transmitted disease (STD)?

You can have an STD test at multiple locations, such as a doctor's office, community health clinic, health department, or a local Planned Parenthood health center.

Are there different types of STD tests?

Yes, STD tests can vary from urine tests, swabs from different parts of the body, blood tests to lumbar punctures in more severe cases.

What are the methods of an STD test?

STD tests can be performed using several methods, such as a blood sample, urine sample, a swab inside the mouth, a swab from the cervix in females, or a swab of discharge or sores.

Is it possible to do STD testing via blood?

Yes, many STDs, including genital herpes, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B, can be diagnosed with a blood test. However, STDs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis require a swab for diagnosis.

Can Trichomoniasis be tested via urine?

Yes, trichomoniasis can be tested via urine. Additionally, a swab from the infected area, usually the vagina for women and the urethra in men, may also be used.