7 Best At Home STD Tests of 2022
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who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/sexually-transmitted-infections-(stis)Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs): Data & statistics. (2021).
cdc.gov/std/statistics/default.htmWhat are sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or diseases (STDs)? (n.d.).
urologyhealth.org/urology-a-z/s/sexually-transmitted-infectionsWhich STD tests should I get? (2021).
cdc.gov/std/prevention/screeningreccs.htmOur experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Current Version Oct 19, 2022 By Kimberly Zapata, Kristeen Cherney, PhD Edited By Candice Abellon Copy Edited By Delores Smith-Johnson Sep 30, 2022 By Kimberly Zapata, Kristeen Cherney, PhD Edited By Mellanie Perez Medically Reviewed By Jenneh Rishe, RN Copy Edited By Sara Giusti VIEW ALL HISTORY Share this articleMedically reviewed by Jenneh Rishe, RN — By Kimberly Zapata and Kristeen Cherney — Updated on October 18, 2022
7 of the Best At-Home STD Tests in 2022
Medically reviewed by Jenneh Rishe, RN — By Kimberly Zapata and Kristeen Cherney — Updated on October 18, 2022Share on PinterestDesign by: Jackie CruzWe 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.A quick look at the best at-home STD tests
Best for fast results: STDCheck comBest for medical support: LetsGetCheckedBest overall: EverlywellBest for self-collection: NurxBest for couples: myLAB BoxBest for privacy: Priority STDBest for people who want to become pregnant: QuestDirect Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are very common. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 1 million STIs are acquired daily worldwide. One reason for this is that even contraceptive methods, such as condoms, are not always failproof. Overall, if you’re sexually active, you could contract an STI. Nowadays, there are dozens of at-home testing kits that may make getting tested easier. Here’s how to figure out what type of at-home STD test is best for you, which products to consider, and when to see a doctor.What we mean when we say STI and STD
STIs are infections transmitted from one person to another during vaginal, anal, and oral sex. An STI is considered an STD — a disease — when it causes symptoms. Usually, an infection is the first step on the road to potentially developing a disease, when it hasn’t yet turned into a disease and often doesn’t cause any symptoms. Not all diseases start as infections. But in the case of STDs, they do. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 5 people in the United States had an STD or STI on any given day in 2018. Although common, most people don’t realize they have an STI because most of these infections have no symptoms or only mild symptoms. Common symptoms of STDs include:pain during sex urethral discharge or burning for those with penises genital ulcers sores or bumps itchingabdominal pain Vaginal discharge can also be a sign of an STD.Common STIs include
syphilisgenital herpesgonorrheahepatitis BHIVgenital warts or human papillomavirus (HPV)chlamydia While most STIs are contracted through vaginal, anal, or oral intercourse, some can be transmitted through nonsexual means, such as blood transfusions and shared products like needles and syringes.How we chose at-home STD tests
There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing an at-home STD test, which is why we turned to the experts. To select the best, we polled several doctors, read various research studies, and asked fellow users. We also read dozens of reviews. Additionally, every product we recommend or brand we work with is thoroughly vetted by our team for medical credibility, good business practices, and social impact.Pricing guide
Many insurance plans cover the cost of at-home STD tests. Unless otherwise noted, the prices listed reflect out-of-pocket costs.$ = under $100 $$ = $100–$200$$$ = over $200Healthline s picks for the best at-home STD tests
Best for fast results
STDCheck com
Price: $–$$Type: lab-based testingTests for: chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis (A, B, and C), HIV, herpes type 1 and 2, and syphilis Results: 1–2 days Quick, secure, and completely confidential, STDCheck com is a lab-based at-home test. This means you order the test over the phone or online and then go to a facility for sample collection. Lab-based tests are generally more thorough than self-collected examinations. STDCheck com has 4,500 locations nationwide. While you can order individual tests from $24 to $99, the company’s full 10 Test Panel is their most comprehensive offer. If you’re concerned about a recent exposure, you can add the HIV RNA Early Detection Test, which can detect an HIV transmission as early as 9 to 11 days after exposure.Order an STDCheck com testBest for medical support
LetsGetChecked
Price: $$–$$$Type: self-collectionTests for: chlamydia, Gardnerella vaginalis, gonorrhea, herpes, HIV, Mycoplasma, syphilis, trichomoniasis, and ureaplasmaResults: 2–5 days Available at CVS locations across the country and covered by both FSA and HSA accounts, LetsGetChecked is a convenient and accessible at-home tests and diagnostics company. They offer three types of tests:Simple 2 ($99): This test checks for chlamydia and gonorrhea, the two most common STDs.Standard 5 ($149): This includes the tests in Simple 2 and tests for trichomoniasis, HIV, and syphilis. This is their most popular STD test and uses a finger prick and urine sample. Complete 8 ($249): This checks for all the tests in Standard 5, and it also includes testing for Gardnerella vaginalis, Mycoplasma, and ureaplasma. This uses finger prick and urine testing methods. LetsGetChecked tests require you to collect a urine and blood sample, depending on which test you select. The service also includes a medical support team to answer any questions. If your results are positive, a nurse or physician will call you to explain your results and provide treatment options. Use code “HEALTHLINE25” for 25% offOrder a LetsGetChecked testBest overall
Everlywell
Price: $$Type: self-collectionTests for: chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis C, HIV, syphilis, and trichomoniasis Results: within days Everlywell sells an STD kit geared to males and one geared to females. With a finger prick and vaginal swab, the Everlywell at-home STD kit for females lets you test for six of the most common STDs. Each purchase comes with instructions, the materials for sample collection, prepaid shipping both ways, and both digital and printable results. Aside from the kits, Everlywell also offers individual tests for trichomoniasis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis C, syphilis, and HIV. Every Everlywell test is reviewed and approved by an independent board certified doctor in your state. If there are positive results, Everlywell will connect you with their independent physician network (at no additional cost) to discuss questions and treatment options. Order an Everlywell testBest for self-collection
Nurx
Price: $$–$$$Type: self-collectionTests for: chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis C, HIV, syphilis, and trichomoniasis Results: within 7 days Although 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 be missed. Nurx offers three at-home test kits to choose from:Healthy Woman Kit ($190): This kit tests for infections most common in people with vaginas: HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis.Basics Covered Kit ($150): This is a great option for people who have completed comprehensive testing before and just want a checkup. It includes testing for HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. Full Control Kit ($220): This is a comprehensive test for anyone who hasn’t gotten tested before or who hasn’t gotten tested in over a year. It tests for HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and hepatitis C. These tests are usually covered by insurance, and Nurx will bill your plan directly (or you can pay out of pocket, too). With insurance, you’ll pay $75 for the test kit, shipping both ways, and a $15 medical consultation fee. Once Nurx collects your samples, they’ll bill your insurance directly for the cost of the lab testing. Without insurance, see the rates for each kit above. These prices include the test kit, lab work, and shipping.Order a Nurx testBest for couples
myLAB Box
Price: $–$$$Type: self-collectionTests for: chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, HIV, HPV, Mycoplasma, syphilis, and trichomoniasisResults: 2–5 days myLAB Box offers several at-home STD kits:Safe Box ($169): This box includes tests for chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, and HIV (1 and 2).Total Box ($369–$389): The company’s most comprehensive test includes tests for every condition in the Safe Box, plus hepatitis C, herpes type 2, syphilis, Mycoplasma genitalium, and HPV (an optional add-on for people over 30 years old).Uber Box ($269): This comprehensive 8-panel test option tests for the most common STIs, including HIV (1 and 2), hepatitis C, herpes type 2, syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis.V-Box ($199): This at-home vaginal test pack tests for all common causes of abnormal vaginal discharge, including yeast, bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea.Love Box – Couple’s Kit ($499): This comprehensive 8-panel test option tests couples for the most common STIs. It has tests for HIV (1 and 2), hepatitis C, herpes type 2, syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis. It includes a vaginal swab, urine collection, and blood test. Aside from these, the service sells individual tests for each STD or STI. These allow you to get the answers you need without driving to a lab or spending money on copays to visit a doctor’s office. Every kit comes with a single-use collection kit, instructions, specimen bag, and a prepaid return envelope. Order a myLAB Box testBest for privacy
Priority STD
Price: $–$$Type: lab-based testingTests for: chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis B and C, herpes, HIV, syphilis, and trichomoniasis Results: 1–3 days Priority STD is one of the most reputable STD testing services. Most reviews say the tests are fast, private, and accurate. You can get same-day testing, same-day medications, and results in 24 to 72 hours. You can purchase your Priority STD test privately, online, or over the phone. Priority STD has more than 4,000 labs across the country. After your testing, you can access your results online or by calling a care counselor. Treatment options are available as well. Aside from individual STD tests, Priority STD offers the following panel tests:Twin Panel ($129): This panel tests for chlamydia and gonorrhea.10-Panel Test ($198): Priority STD’s most popular test option tests for chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis B and C, syphilis, herpes type 1 and 2, HIV 1 (Ab and Ag), and HIV 2 (Ab). The service complies with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and will not mail anything to your home or report anything to your healthcare professional. Order a Priority STD testBest for people trying to become pregnant
QuestDirect
Price: $–$$$Type: self-collectionTests for: chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis B and C, herpes, HIV, syphilis, and trichomoniasis Results: 3–5 days QuestDirect provides detailed instructions and all the necessary tools and equipment for users to collect samples. Once a sample is collected, you mail it off to be examined, and within 3 to 5 days, your results will be available on QuestDirect’s mobile app, MyQuest. As well as individual tests, QuestDirect also provides panel tests, including:STD Basic Test Panel ($199): This tests for gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and HIV.STD Expanded Screening Panel ($379): This tests for gonorrhea, chlamydia, and common STIs in the genitals, rectum, and throat.Pregnancy STD Test Panel ($279): This test is recommended for people trying to become pregnant. It also screens for gonorrhea, chlamydia, and common STIs in the genitals, rectum, and throat.Order a QuestDirect testHow to choose the right test for you
With dozens of at-home testing kits available, it can be hard to choose the right one. After all, what does a good at-home STD testing kit look like? What should it entail? What do you need? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your needs will vary depending on your situation and circumstances. Also, they may change over time. This chart can help you determine which type of test is right for you. Reasons to testFully online test Home-to-lab test In-office test out of curiosity X X X after sex without a condom, a broken condom, or another barrier method X X experiencing unusual symptoms X before or after a new partner X X to confirm a prior infection has cleared X X recent or current partner received a positive test X want to stop using a condom with your current partner X X haven’t had an in-office test in 1 or more years X X X You should also make sure a test is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). To determine whether the FDA approves a product, you can check the FDA’s website.STD test comparison chart
Also, you can use this chart for a quick comparison of the nine tests in our roundup: CompanyPriceTypeTest forResultsSTDCheck$–$$lab-basedchlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis (A, B, and C), HIV, herpes type 1 and 2, syphilis 1–2 daysLetsGetChecked$–$$$self-collectionchlamydia, Gardnerella vaginalis, gonorrhea, herpes, HIV, Mycoplasma, syphilis, trichomoniasis, ureaplasma2–5 daysEverlywell$$self-collectionchlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis C, HIV, syphilis, trichomoniasis within daysNurx$$–$$$self-collectionchlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis C, HIV, syphilis, trichomoniasis within 7 daysmyLAB Box$–$$$self-collectionchlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, HIV, HPV, Mycoplasma, syphilis, trichomoniasis2–5 daysPriority STD$–$$lab-basedchlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis B and C, herpes, HIV, syphilis, trichomoniasis 1–3 daysQuestDirect$–$$$self-collectionchlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis B and C, herpes, HIV, syphilis, trichomoniasis 3–5 daysPros and cons of at-home STD testing
Pros
It’s more discreet.They can test multiple STDs and STIs at once.The timing for collecting the sample may be more convenient for you.Cons
If results are positive, treatment is not readily available.Results may be difficult to read.There may be potential delays in sending and receiving tests.When to see a doctor
You should talk with a doctor if one of your partners has recently tested positive for an STD or STI or if you’re experiencing possible symptoms of an STI. Also, the CDC recommends STD screenings from a healthcare professional for the following cases:You are between 13 and 64 years old and have never been tested for HIV.You share needles. Your doctor may recommend annual HIV testing.You have sex without a condom or other barrier methods. Your doctor may recommend annual HIV testing.Sexually active people who were assigned female at birth and under age 25 years may need annual chlamydia and gonorrhea testing.Sexually active people assigned male at birth who have sex with others assigned male at birth may need testing as frequently as every 3 to 6 months.You have regular oral or anal sex. Your doctor may recommend throat and rectal testing.You are pregnant. Your doctor will test you for hepatitis B and C, as well as HIV and syphilis.Frequently asked questions
How can you test for STDs at home
Our roundup of nine home STD tests is a good starting point if you want to get tested without visiting a doctor. Depending on the test, you may need to visit a lab in person for collection. Every other part of the process, including lab order, payment, and results, is done online. If you receive a positive test result, the testing kit company may offer a consultation with one of their physicians about the next steps, such as further testing or treatment. At this point, it’s also a good idea to contact your primary care doctor to share your results.How do at-home and lab-direct STD tests work
At-home and lab-direct tests work by collecting samples from users. Samples required may be blood, urine, anal, vaginal, or oral swabs. Samples are submitted to a lab, and results are shared in discreet methods. It’s important to note that because treatment options are not readily available for positive STD results, you should always be prepared to seek treatment. Also, be prepared to notify any partners of positive results.How do I know if I should get tested
If you’re sexually active or engaging in activities that have the potential to increase your risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease, like sharing needles, you should get tested. In fact, according to the CDC, “getting tested for STDs is one of the most important things you can do to protect your health.”How can I tell if I have an STD without going to the doctor
An at-home test may confirm whether you have an STD, but you should still see your doctor if you have symptoms of a possible infection. These may include:vaginal or penile burning or dischargefrequent urinationpelvic or genital painsores or bumps around your genitals, anus, or mouthabnormal bleeding (bleeding other than menstruation)How often should I get tested
The CDC recommends that adults and adolescents ages 13 to 64 get tested for HIV at least once a year as part of their routine health checkups. Sexually active people assigned female at birth and younger than 25 should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year. Pregnant people should be tested for syphilis, hepatitis B, and HIV. Sexually active people assigned male at birth who have sex with other males should be tested for syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea annually. But if symptoms arise, you shouldn’t wait. The quicker you’re tested, the sooner you can begin treatment.Are STD tests accurate
Most modern STD tests are very accurate. Still, test accuracy varies depending on the type of sample and the test detection method. Traditional in-office tests are more accurate than online-only tests, and home-to-lab tests are more accurate than self-collected ones. But both are highly efficient.How reliable are at-home STD tests
While in-office STD tests may be considered the most reliable, the home test kits on our list also have a reputation for being accurate. It’s important that you don’t rely on home testing in place of seeing your doctor if you:have any possible symptoms of an STIhave other important questions about your overall healthDoes insurance cover STD tests
Most insurance plans cover the cost of STD tests — as these tests are considered preventive and covered under the Affordable Care Act. But whether your plan covers a specific STD test depends on several factors, including:your age your sex and gender risk factorsif you’re pregnant Also, the coverage of at-home tests varies. To learn more about your specific options, talk with a nurse, doctor, or health insurance professional. You can also find free or low cost STD testing sites across the country.Can you test for STDs by yourself
Yes. For home STD testing, you collect a urine sample or an oral or genital swab, and then send it to a lab for analysis. You can collect the sample in the privacy of your home without the need for a pelvic exam or office visit.Takeaway
Whether you have an STD, it’s important to test regularly. Testing can help prevent the transmission of STIs. It can also help you get the appropriate treatment if you have a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection — because many STDs and STIs can be treated or cured. Visiting a doctor or other healthcare professional is generally the most reliable way to know whether you’ve contracted an STI or have an STD. But an at-home test is an excellent alternative. For many, an at-home test is a confidential and convenient option. Kimberly Zapata is a mother, writer, and mental health advocate. Her work has appeared on several sites, including The Washington Post, HuffPost, Oprah, Vice, Parents, Health, and Scary Mommy — to name a few. When her nose isn’t buried in work (or a good book), Kimberly spends her free time running Greater Than: Illness, a nonprofit organization that aims to empower children and young adults working through mental health conditions. Follow Kimberly on Facebook or Twitter. Kristeen Cherney is a freelance writer and PhD candidate who specializes in covering topics related to mental disabilities, women’s health, skin health, diabetes, thyroid disease, asthma, and allergies. She’s also currently working on her dissertation, which explores intersections of disability studies and literacy studies. When she’s not researching or writing, Cherney enjoys getting outdoors as much as possible. She also practices yoga and kick-boxing. Last medically reviewed on September 29, 2022How we vetted this article
SourcesHistoryHealthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.Sexually transmitted infections (STIs). (2021).who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/sexually-transmitted-infections-(stis)Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs): Data & statistics. (2021).
cdc.gov/std/statistics/default.htmWhat are sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or diseases (STDs)? (n.d.).
urologyhealth.org/urology-a-z/s/sexually-transmitted-infectionsWhich STD tests should I get? (2021).
cdc.gov/std/prevention/screeningreccs.htmOur experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Current Version Oct 19, 2022 By Kimberly Zapata, Kristeen Cherney, PhD Edited By Candice Abellon Copy Edited By Delores Smith-Johnson Sep 30, 2022 By Kimberly Zapata, Kristeen Cherney, PhD Edited By Mellanie Perez Medically Reviewed By Jenneh Rishe, RN Copy Edited By Sara Giusti VIEW ALL HISTORY Share this articleMedically reviewed by Jenneh Rishe, RN — By Kimberly Zapata and Kristeen Cherney — Updated on October 18, 2022