Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
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 up on 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 writes 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.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) claims that the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA) has established quality standards for laboratory testing and an accreditation program for clinical laboratories.
However, not all online testing companies have received CLIA certification. Therefore, a person should look for this certification when buying tests to verify their accuracy and quality.
Healthcare insurance providers, including Medicare and Medicaid, typically cover some or all of the cost of STI testing. However, there are several places where a person may receive free or low cost STI screening.
Learn more about where to receive STI testing.
Planned ParenthoodPlanned Parenthood is no longer eligible for federal funding through the Title X program. The organization can only offer free or low cost STI testing if it receives funding from the location state. Due to this, a person must call or otherwise contact their local center to check whether it offers affordable testing.
Community clinics and city health centersA person's local community clinic or city health center may offer free or low cost STI testing. These clinics may provide a mix of walk-ins or appointments.
Find a local community health clinic on the government HealthCare website.
Additionally, the CDC offers a database where people can find centers that offer free or low cost STI testing and vaccinations. People can search via their ZIP code or state.
Access the CDC database.
Student health centersStudent health centers may offer low cost STI screening for students enrolled in local colleges.
A person can find their student health center through their college website or by contacting their college unions.
LGBTQ+ community centersPeople who consider themselves part of the LGBTQIA+ community may prefer to visit an LGBTQIA+ community center.
These centers may be able to provide people with information on where to find low cost healthcare with an LGBTQIA+-friendly healthcare professional.
Find a local LGBTQ+ community center on the CenterLink website.
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 people who do not feel comfortable 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.
Where To Get Tested For STDs: What Are The Options?
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.
Medical 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?
STIs are common infections that people may unknowingly transmit. People may choose to see their doctor or visit a sexual health clinic for an STI test, while others may prefer at-home tests.
Rather than use the older term sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), many doctors now tend to refer to these conditions as sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Either term refers to conditions that can pass from person to person through sexual contact.
Early detection and treatment are vital to prevent transmission and complications.
Regular testing is important, and healthcare professionals can advise about STI tests. Many quick, safe, and readily available tests can help prevent further transmission and health complications. If people do not feel comfortable doing so, many clinics, pharmacies, or services can provide confidential and free or low-cost testing.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 5 people in the United States has an STI, with almost half affecting young people 14–24 years. Treatments are readily available so people can receive help as early as possible.
Learn more about STIs here.
Why people should test for STIsRoutine testing for STIs is essential, as early detection and treatment can help prevent health complications. Many people may consider an STI test after noticing symptoms. However, some people may not be aware they have an STI, as some conditions, such as chlamydia, may not present any symptoms.
If left untreated, some STIs can result in long-term health problems. For example, in addition to causing discomfort, some STIs may result in infertility, birth complications, and some cancers.
Each STI has a different incubation period, referring to how long it takes for symptoms to appear. In some cases, tests can detect an STI after a few days, while other STIs may not show up on a test for many months. Many STIs are treatable with early detection, and medications are available to help manage the symptoms of others.
Learn more about how long chlamydia symptoms take to show.
Who should have a test for STIs?The CDC advises that sexually active people have an STI test once a year. However, some people may have different testing requirements, so a doctor or another health professional may help determine which tests a person needs.
Some doctors suggest that people who may be at higher risk, such as during pregnancy or those with multiple or anonymous partners, may require more frequent testing.
Learn about contracting an STI here.
What STIs should people test for?Typically, sexual health clinics test for the more common STIs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. If people know that a previous partner has tested positive for a specific STI, it is advisable to get tested for the same STI. A person can also discuss their sexual and STI testing history with a healthcare professional, who can offer help and suggestions about appropriate tests.
To get a reliable test result, people should perform the test within a specific timeframe after exposure due to incubation periods. Below are some common STIs and their testing windows:
Learn more about how long it takes for STI symptoms to develop.
Medicare, Medicaid, and most insurance plans typically cover some STI tests as part of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Some people may choose to see their doctor or visit a sexual health clinic for an STI test, while others may prefer at-home tests. A 2019 study notes that at-home testing kits are becoming more available and are likely to contribute to higher rates of testing and treatments.
Individuals have many options for STI testing, some of which include:
Doctor's officeMost primary health providers have facilities to screen for STIs. Depending on the history and exam results, a health professional can collect samples through swabs, urine, or blood samples.
Some clinics can test the sample on-site, while others send the samples to a laboratory. People can expect results within a few days to a week. Depending on the results, doctors may prescribe antibiotics or antiviral medications.
However, visiting a doctor for STI screening and treatment may be expensive and may range from $50–200 without health insurance coverage. People should check their insurance coverage and co-pays first before visiting their doctor.
City health centers and community clinicsSome city health centers or community clinics may offer testing services. Many offer both appointment and walk-in services.
Aside from free testing and treatment for STIs, health centers also provide pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a preventive treatment for HIV. They may also offer family planning services, counseling, and free condoms for STI protection.
Urgent care centersMany urgent care centers can offer discreet, immediate diagnosis and treatment for individuals who do not want to go to their primary care provider. However, some of these centers do not have lab or diagnostic testing capacities.
Urgent care doctors will also provide the appropriate medications. However, if the STI has progressed beyond what prescription medication can treat, it may be necessary for individuals to follow up with their health providers.
Most insurance companies cover urgent care visits, but most often, individuals need to pay a deductible.
Pharmacies and big-box retailersMost pharmacies, such as Walgreens and CVS, and big-box retailers, such as Target and Walmart, sell home-test kits for STIs. However, a person should know which STIs they are checking for before buying.
Some grocery and pharmacy chains also have low cost health clinics that may also provide STI testing. However, unlike at-home tests, these kits may only test for a limited range of STIs.
Lab-based tests and at-home testsSome providers, such as QuestDiagnostics, allow people to choose whether to buy at-home test kits or to schedule an appointment online and perform a test in person in one of their labs. Other providers, such as Everlywell and LetsGetChecked, allow a person to choose a specific test from a range of tests available on their website.
The costs of kits vary according to the type of test and the provider but typically range from $49–249, with more expensive options testing for a wider range of STIs.
Most insurance providers do not cover at-home test kits. However, most accept flexible savings account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA) payments.
Samples from at-home tests undergo the same analysis as lab tests and are just as accurate. However, it is important to carefully follow the instructions for how to collect and store the samples.
Below is a comparison of the providers mentioned above:
Use code "HEALTHLINE25" for 25% off at Everylywell.
Read more about at-home STI tests here.
Local Planned Parenthood health centerPlanned Parenthood health centers also offer STI testing. They receive government reimbursements and grants from public programs, such as Medicaid and Title X, which means people can get STI testing and treatment for free or at a very low cost, depending on their income, demographics, and eligibility.
OthersStudents enrolled at universities can visit their student health centers, which may supply STI tests for roughly $10–20. Most cities also have LBGTQ+ community centers that can help with STI testing.
Mobile reproductive health centers can also offer community-based STI screenings and other reproductive health services to migrants, people from low-income households, people who do not have insurance, people from marginalized groups, people living in rural areas, and others. This Mobile Health Map provides a list of participating mobile health clinics throughout the U.S.
Most STI tests only require a urine, blood, or swab sample and do not typically require the assistance of a health professional. However, a healthcare professional will need to carry out a Pap smear, which checks for human papillomavirus (HPV), to ensure the safety and accuracy of the test. If a person is experiencing symptoms, such as warts, sores, or lesions, it is advisable to talk with a doctor.
Also, while individuals can order most tests online or buy them in stores, some states require a doctor's order to authorize a lab test.
Below we look at some common questions and answers relating to STI testing.
How much do STI tests cost?Most insurance plans will cover some form of STI testing, but some tests, such as the at-home STI tests mentioned in this article, typically range from $49–250.
How are STI tests done?Typically, STI tests require either a urine, blood, or swab sample from the mouth, genitals, or anus. Some STI tests require a combination of samples.
How long do STI tests take?Except for rapid HIV tests, which can show results in about 20 minutes, most other STI test results take between 2 days to 1 week.
How much is STI testing at Planned Parenthood?Planned Parenthood offers STI testing at a reduced cost, or sometimes free, depending on an individual's eligibility.
Does urgent care do STI tests?Yes, urgent care does STI tests and can also provide appropriate antibiotic and antiviral medications.
Usually, a person can manage and treat STIs with early detection and intervention.
There are many STI testing options available that allow people to test themselves routinely. Untreated STIs can cause permanent damage to a person's reproduction and health.
In addition to regular testing, it is important to use condoms or other barrier birth control methods during sex to prevent transmitting and contracting an STI.
Learn more about male and female condoms here.
How Do STD Tests Work?
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.
Healthline 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?
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.
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