About Our STD Tests
Purpose of the test
STD tests are used to diagnose specific STDs. Tests may be part of a routine health screening or ordered when a patient experiences signs and symptoms of an STD, but many people with STDs are asymptomatic or experience only mild symptoms of infection. Screening recommendations vary by risk and exposure site. The CDC emphasizes talking with a provider about which tests are right
Without testing, people infected with STDs may unknowingly spread the infection to others. STDs can lead to serious health complications, so appropriate STD screening and diagnosis is a major public health concern. Additionally, screening attempts to identify, test and treat the sexual partners of people diagnosed with STDs to prevent the continued spread of the infection.
When should I get an STD test?
If you think you might have an STD, don’t wait to get tested. Many STIs don’t cause symptoms, but they can still be passed to partners and can lead to complications if untreated. You can also spread STDs to sexual partners if you have an untreated infection.
The CDC recommends routine screening for certain groups even without symptoms, including annual chlamydia and gonorrhea screening for sexually active women under 25, routine HIV testing for everyone ages 13 to 64 and more frequent testing for people with new or multiple partners or those who do not consistently use protection. People taking PrEP and men who have sex with men may need testing every 3 months may be recommended, according to the latest CDC guidelines.
Below is a brief overview of common STD screening recommendations:
- Adults and adolescents: Everyone from ages 13 to 64 should be tested for HIV at least once or more as needed based on risk level. People with certain risk factors should test at least annually
- Sexually active women: All sexually active women under 25 years old should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia at least every year. This recommendation also applies to women 25 years and older at an increased risk of STDs due to new or multiple sexual partners, or a partner who has been diagnosed with an STD.
- Pregnant women: During pregnancy, women should be tested for syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis B. Pregnant women with additional risk factors should also be tested for chlamydia and gonorrhea.
- Sexually active gay and bisexual men: Men in this group should be tested at least once a year for syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. Those with multiple or anonymous partners should be tested more frequently, such as every three or six months. This group may also benefit from more frequent HIV testing.
- Sex without a condom: Anyone who shares injection drug equipment or has sex without protection should be tested for HIV at least once a year. Testing may include throat/rectal sites based on exposure.
How to get tested
A clinician can order tests and some services let you order ahead and test at a partner lab. Before prescribing a test, your doctor will ask about your risk factors for STDs, including your sexual and health history. The doctor also asks about any signs or symptoms of STD infections to determine the most appropriate testing strategy.
While STD testing is often performed in a hospital or doctor’s office, many people get tested for STDs at clinics and other community health programs. These programs may offer free and confidential STD testing.
Can I take the test at home?
Yes, many STD tests can be taken at home, depending on the infection being screened. At-home kits allow you to collect samples privately using methods such as a finger-prick blood sample (used for infections like HIV or syphilis), a urine sample (commonly for chlamydia and gonorrhea), or a self-collected swab. These samples are then mailed to a certified laboratory for analysis.
However, at-home testing has important limits. It does not replace an in-person exam if you have symptoms such as sores, unusual discharge, pelvic or testicular pain, fever, or other concerning signs. Some infections also have window periods, meaning testing too soon after exposure can lead to false-negative results. Also, the site of infection matters. For example, a urine test may not detect infections in the throat or rectum if those areas were exposed.
If an at-home test is positive, follow up promptly with a healthcare professional for confirmation, treatment, and guidance about notifying partners and any needed retesting.
How much does the test cost?
The cost of testing for genital and oral herpes depends on the type of test that is performed, where the test is conducted, and whether you have medical insurance. Testing is often covered by insurance when ordered by a doctor, although you may still be responsible for costs such as copays and deductibles.
Taking an STD Test
Getting tested is designed to be quick, simple and confidential. Many services let you order testing online or by phone, then visit a local lab for sample collection. Testing usually takes just a few minutes. Depending on the infections being screened, you may provide a urine sample (commonly used for chlamydia and gonorrhea), a blood sample (used for HIV, syphilis and hepatitis tests), or occasionally a swab.
Samples are analyzed at CLIA-certified laboratories, and results are typically available through a secure online portal within a few days. If results are positive, some services also offer follow-up guidance with a medical professional to discuss next steps.
Keep in mind that different tests detect infections in different parts of the body, so a urine test may not identify infections in the throat or rectum if those sites were exposed. Testing too soon after a possible exposure can also affect accuracy because of window periods. Lab-collected samples help reduce user error, but follow-up care is still important if you have symptoms or receive a positive result.
Before the test
Before you get tested, think about the infections you want to screen for and your risk factors (recent exposure, symptoms, number of partners, type of sex, etc.). Many testing services let you select tests online or through your healthcare provider before you visit a lab. When you go in, bring any paperwork or test requisition, a valid ID and insurance information if you plan to use it. If you have symptoms, or if you’re unsure which tests you need, tell the person collecting your sample so they can help guide appropriate testing.
During the test
STD testing is usually quick and straightforward. Most samples are collected at a certified laboratory or clinic and take only a few minutes. You may give a blood sample (for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis), a urine sample (for chlamydia and gonorrhea), or a swab from the throat, genitals or other exposed sites, depending on the tests you’ve selected and your exposure history. You typically won’t need to fill out extensive forms or wait for long once you’re at the lab.
After the test
After your samples are collected, they’re sent to a laboratory for analysis, and results are usually available in a few days through a secure online portal or directly from your provider, though the time frame can vary. Ask about how results will be delivered so you know when to check back.
If any test is positive, follow up with a healthcare professional for diagnosis confirmation, treatment, and counseling on notifying partners. If results are negative but you tested soon after a possible exposure, your provider may recommend retesting after the appropriate window period to ensure accuracy.
FAQs About STD Testing
How often should I get tested for STDs?
Testing frequency depends on your age, sexual activity and risk level. Many sexually active adults should test at least once a year, while people with multiple partners, new partners or higher-risk exposures may need testing every 3 to 6 months. Pregnant people and those with symptoms may need additional screening.
Can I have an STD without symptoms?
Yes. Many STDs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea and HIV, can be present without noticeable symptoms. That’s why routine screening is important, even if you feel healthy.
How long does it take to get STD test results?
Result timing depends on the test, but many lab-based STD tests return results within a few days. Some rapid tests (such as certain HIV tests) can provide results sooner. Your testing provider will tell you when and how to access your results.
What types of samples are used for STD testing?
STD tests may use urine, blood, saliva or swab samples from the genitals, throat or rectum. The sample type depends on the infection being tested and the areas of possible exposure.
What happens if my STD test is positive?
If you test positive, follow up promptly with a healthcare professional. Many STDs are treatable, and early treatment helps prevent complications and reduces the risk of passing the infection to partners. Your provider can discuss treatment, partner notification and whether follow-up testing is needed.