Sexually Transmitted Infections Are On The Rise, So Here's Everything You Need To Know About Every Single One
The Symptoms Of The Most Common STDs
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6 At-Home STI Tests: Free And Low Cost Options To Try In 2024
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Some people may have concerns about accessing sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing. Some local organizations may offer free or low cost STI tests. We have chosen our top picks for low cost, convenient kits.
The World Health Organization (WHO) states that worldwide, people contract more than 1 million STIs daily. In 2021, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showed that chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis infections continued to increase in the United States.
Free and low cost STI testing can help people identify and manage STIs.
This article discusses what home STI testing is, how often a person should test, and where someone can go to find an at-home STI test free or for a low cost.
Some organizations may offer free or low cost STI tests.
TakeMeHome helps health departments offer free at-home STI, HIV, and preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) tests to local people. A collaboration between Emory University, NASTAD, which provides HIV and AIDs support worldwide, and Building Healthy Online Communities (BHOC), an organization that advocates for gay men's health online.
According to Planned Parenthood, health insurance, Medicaid, and other government assistance programs can also provide free STI testing. Some Planned Parenthood centers offer free or low cost testing depending on a person's income.
The CDC's Get Tested tool provides a database of places that offer free or low cost STI testing, including screenings for HIV and hepatitis. People can enter their state, city, or ZIP code to find local centers.
Some several organizations and locations may offer free or low cost STI testing:
Various online STI clinic finders are available, helping people locate low cost or free testing. The following are some options:
Home STI testing is similar to the testing a person receives in a doctor's office or healthcare clinic. These tests screen for the presence of infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea.
To perform a test, a person collects their sample, usually a urine, blood, or swab sample, and then sends it to a lab. Testing at home may be more convenient and private than testing in a clinic, and some companies offer care and advice if a person receives a positive test result.
While there may be some loss of accuracy when taking a home test, if a person follows the instructions on the test kit carefully, home test results are generally reliable. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that people call the company if they have any questions about collecting a sample.
Learn more about the best at-home STI tests.
While each company may have slightly different instructions, home STI tests generally require:
Companies will provide detailed instructions on how to collect a sample correctly. If a person finds it difficult to perform a finger prick test, they may wish to ask a friend or family member for help.
Some companies will also offer follow-up care and advice if a person receives a positive test result.
Types of resultsUsually, home tests will return one of the following results:
The time it takes a company to return results depends on the type of test a person takes and the company that offers it.
However, people can typically expect home STI test results around 1 week after the lab receives their samples.
Below are some free or lower cost home STI tests available to purchase online.
Medical News Today has tested some of the products below. Reviewers may have received some products from the manufacturers for free, which does not influence their review. All opinions are the reviewers' own.
Through TakeMeHome, eligible people in the United States and Puerto Rico can access free HIV and STI testing. Anyone over the age of 17 years who has not had recent STI and HIV testing can use the service.
To use TakeMeHome, people must go onto the website and choose to order a test. They will have to answer some eligibility questions before they can order the screening.
People can select from the following tests:
TakeMeHome can offer these tests for free because local or state health departments pay for them rather than the customer.
TakeMeHome writes that people will get their results within 3 days on average, but it can take up to 6 days.
People cannot get treatment from TakeMeHome if they test positive for an STI or HIV. They must speak with a doctor in this case.
Learn about the transmission of HIV.
Take Me Home is a collaboration between Building Healthy Online Communities, NASTAD, and Emory University.
Pros & consThis service offers three different STI self-test kits.
The company charges a $15 fee, which includes 1 year's worth of unlimited messaging with its medical team.
Learn more about Nurx.
Pros & consThis dual test covers both gonorrhea and chlamydia.
With a positive chlamydia test, Lemonaid Health offers people the opportunity to discuss whether treatment would be appropriate for them, and if so, they will prescribe antibiotics. There is a $25 visit fee for this service.
The company states results should be available within 3 to 5 business days, and the service has a 24-hour medical response team.
Lemonaid testing is available in all U.S. States, including Washington DC.
Lab test costs may vary in New York and Rhode Island.
Learn more about Lemonaid Health.
Pros & consUse code "HEALTHLINE25" for 25% off.
MNT's reviewEverlywell sells tests for specific STIs and offers panel tests for males and females. These screenings cost from $69 to $169.
Both options screen for chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis C, HIV, syphilis, and trichomoniasis.
People can also use the Everlywell subscription service to make frequent testing more affordable. Additionally, Everlywell offers some of the most affordable STI testing for those without insurance.
Learn more about Everlywell.
What our tester says"It was very easy to register the kit — I could either scan the QR code that came on it or manually type in the unique code on Everlywell's site. All the questions were super clear and pretty quick to answer. You do need to make sure you register on the same day or time as you plan on taking the test, however, as it will ask for the time of test-taking as you finish registration.
"Everlywell provided very clear instructions (both written within the kit and via its website as I registered the kit — the website even had a video walking you through the process). I was provided three lancets, disinfectant, gauze, and a bandaid.
"Some helpful tips included warming your hands under hot water, shaking them, and then lancing the edge of your ring finger (not the pad). All solid tips (I'm definitely glad the company warned me not to prick the pad, as I probably would have, and then would have been sore!), which were helpful. The lancets were easy to use and as painless as a needle can be.
"However, the test wanted 12 (!) samples, and you had to completely fill each circle (which, for me, was often more than one drop). So I ended up pricking two of my fingers (again, with only one bandage!) and ended up putting my sample card on a step to keep it low and encourage the blood to flow.
"Everlywell's test comes with the prepaid shipping envelope to return your test, so I just had to swing by the nearest post office to drop it off. It wasn't clear in the kit whether there was a timeframe when you had to get the sample into the lab, so to be safe, I mailed it on the same day.
"I dropped my test off during the last USPS collection window on a Tuesday, and I got a text from Everlywell Thursday midday, telling me it received my sample for processing. Then, Friday afternoon (3 days from when I took my sample), it texted me to let me know my results were ready. I was able to click in directly from the text and was directed to a results page where it looks like it keeps the results of all tests you take in one convenient place for easy access.
"Clicking into the test's results, I was greeted with a very clear screen that showed my results for each of the six STIs it tested for. Clicking into each STI provided a quick detail about that infection, and I could click in more to learn more, or click into some of the external resources it provides (CDC and WebMD).
"The company also allows you to download a PDF, which could be very helpful for printing if you needed to share these results with a medical professional.
"At the bottom of the results, Everlywell provides suggestions for how to share these results with your PCP, as well as preventive tips to avoid STIs going forward."
– Laramy Applekamp, Content Project Manager
           
"It was very easy to register the kit — I could either scan the QR code that came on it or manually type in the unique code on Everlywell's site. All the questions were super clear and pretty quick to answer. You do need to make sure you register on the same day or time as you plan on taking the test, however, as it will ask for the time of test-taking as you finish registration.
"Everlywell provided very clear instructions (both written within the kit and via its website as I registered the kit — the website even had a video walking you through the process). I was provided three lancets, disinfectant, gauze, and a bandaid.
"Some helpful tips included warming your hands under hot water, shaking them, and then lancing the edge of your ring finger (not the pad). All solid tips (I'm definitely glad the company warned me not to prick the pad, as I probably would have, and then would have been sore!), which were helpful. The lancets were easy to use and as painless as a needle can be.
"However, the test wanted 12 (!) samples, and you had to completely fill each circle (which, for me, was often more than one drop). So I ended up pricking two of my fingers (again, with only one bandage!) and ended up putting my sample card on a step to keep it low and encourage the blood to flow.
"Everlywell's test comes with the prepaid shipping envelope to return your test, so I just had to swing by the nearest post office to drop it off. It wasn't clear in the kit whether there was a timeframe when you had to get the sample into the lab, so to be safe, I mailed it on the same day.
"I dropped my test off during the last USPS collection window on a Tuesday, and I got a text from Everlywell Thursday midday, telling me it received my sample for processing. Then, Friday afternoon (3 days from when I took my sample), it texted me to let me know my results were ready. I was able to click in directly from the text and was directed to a results page where it looks like it keeps the results of all tests you take in one convenient place for easy access.
"Clicking into the test's results, I was greeted with a very clear screen that showed my results for each of the six STIs it tested for. Clicking into each STI provided a quick detail about that infection, and I could click in more to learn more, or click into some of the external resources it provides (CDC and WebMD).
"The company also allows you to download a PDF, which could be very helpful for printing if you needed to share these results with a medical professional.
"At the bottom of the results, Everlywell provides suggestions for how to share these results with your PCP, as well as preventive tips to avoid STIs going forward."
– Laramy Applekamp, Content Project Manager
           
Use code "HEALTHLINE25" for 25% off
MNT's reviewLetsGetChecked offers three STI testing kits.
The Simple 2 tests for chlamydia and gonorrhea. The Standard 5 tests for chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, HIV, and syphilis.
The Complete 8 tests for chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, HIV, syphilis, Gardnerella, mycoplasma, and ureaplasma.
In 40 states, if a person tests positive for chlamydia, trichomoniasis, Gardnerella, mycoplasma, or ureaplasma, the company will provide prescriptions at no extra charge.
Learn more about LetsGetChecked.
Pros & consPeople can order tests and view results on STDcheck's website, but they must attend one of over 4,500 partnered testing centers so that clinicians can collect test samples.
The company offers individual and panel tests for a range of STIs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and hepatitis A, B, and C.
This service boasts the fastest results turnaround at 1 to 2 days, making it a suitable option for people looking for rapid testing.
Pros & consThe following table compares the home STI tests in this article.
Testing for STIs is important to prevent transmitting an infection to sexual partners.
Not all STIs have symptoms. It is important for people to undergo regular testing to ensure that they and their sexual partners receive any treatment necessary to protect their health.
It is also important to test regularly because STIs can cause complications. For example, chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease and lead to infertility.
Pregnant people who have an STI can pass the infection to their infant during delivery. Certain infections can cause:
Some STIs also increase the risk of pregnancy loss.
Everyone will need to undergo testing if they believe they are at risk of contracting an STI or showing symptoms of an STI.
SymptomsSymptoms may include an unusual urine color, odorous discharge, or urinating pain. However, people can have STIs without having symptoms.
People need to undergo testing if a sexual partner discloses that they have an infection. STI testing is more accurate after the infection is in the detection period.
Some populations should receive regular testing to minimize the risk of complications. We outline these groups in greater detail below.
Learn more about STI testing.
Detection periodBelow, we describe how long after exposure STI tests generally start yielding reliable results:
The CDC recommends that the following people receive testing:
People need to consider contacting a healthcare professional or using an at-home STI test if they have sex without a barrier method, such as a condom, with someone who may have an STI. They should also contact a doctor if they experience any symptoms of an STI.
Can you test yourself for an STD at home?Yes, people can perform STI tests on themselves. Several companies offer at-home test kits with detailed instructions.
Yes, people can perform STI tests on themselves. Several companies offer at-home test kits with detailed instructions.
Can you get free STI tests?Take Me Home provides free testing to those eligible. The type of testing people can get may depend on the state they live in. Individuals may also consider trying Planned Parenthood clinics, college or university health centers, and mobile clinics to get free STI testing.
Take Me Home provides free testing to those eligible. The type of testing people can get may depend on the state they live in. Individuals may also consider trying Planned Parenthood clinics, college or university health centers, and mobile clinics to get free STI testing.
How can I check my STI at home?Many companies offer at-home test kits that check for various STIs. People can receive their results, and in some cases, prescriptions or follow-up advice, within a couple of weeks after sending in their sample.
However, people can talk with a doctor if they do not understand their results or if the results are not what they expected.
Many companies offer at-home test kits that check for various STIs. People can receive their results, and in some cases, prescriptions or follow-up advice, within a couple of weeks after sending in their sample.
However, people can talk with a doctor if they do not understand their results or if the results are not what they expected.
Is STI testing free in the United States?No, federal policy provides free STI testing in the United States. While some clinics offer free testing, many places require payment.
No, federal policy provides free STI testing in the United States. While some clinics offer free testing, many places require payment.
Where can I get tested for STDs for free?People may get free STI testing at Planned Parenthood clinics, college or university health centers, and mobile clinics.
People may get free STI testing at Planned Parenthood clinics, college or university health centers, and mobile clinics.
At-home sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing is a convenient and private way to screen for these infections. Several companies offer lower cost STI testing online.
People can also use local resources to find free or low cost testing. Planned Parenthood, local community centers, and student centers may offer subsidized testing for those in lower income households.
Syphilis: Symptoms, Causes And Everything Else You Need To Know About STI Spiking Across UK
Syphilis symptoms are often mild and hard to notice and they tend to change over time and may come and go. You should speak to your GP if you suspect you have it
A 3D illustration of a syphilis pathogen (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
As the number of syphilis cases in the last year hits the highest amount ever reported in England since 1948, we take a look at everything you need to know about the Victorian STI.
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection, which if it isn't treated can cause serious and potentially life-threatening problems. Symptoms are often mild and hard to notice and they tend to change over time and may come and go.
If you think you have an STI contact your GP and once it has been confirmed you should contact your recent sexual partners too. Figures out today show that in 2023, 20% more hetrosexual people were diagnosed with syphilis compared to the the previous year.
The huge increase was noted in government figures for 2023 released today in the annual official statistics data. They show that in the whole of 2023 there were 401,800 diagnoses of new STIs, an increase of 4.7% on 2022 when 383,789 cases were found.
Do you have syphilis?It can take 3 weeks or more for the symptoms of syphilis to appear after you're infected. Sometimes the symptoms can improve or go away completely, but if you have not been treated the infection is still in your body. This means you can still pass it on and you're at risk of getting serious problems later on.
You can be tested by your GP (Image:
Getty Images/Science Photo Library RF)According to the NHS, symptoms of syphilis include:
If it's not treated, syphilis can cause serious and potentially life-threatening problems. Some of these symptoms may not appear for many years after being infected with syphilis
If you have symptoms of syphilis, a doctor or nurse will check your penis, vagina and anus for syphilis sores (ulcers). They may use a swab to collect a fluid sample from any sores. They'll also check the rest of your body for other signs of syphilis like a rash, sores or wart-like growths. They may also take a blood sample and you can have tests for other STIs at the same time.
Syphilis is an STI (Image:
Getty Images/iStockphoto) Treatment for syphilisSyphilis is treated with antibiotics, which you may have as injections, tablets or capsules.
Treatment may be started before your test result is known. How long you need treatment for will depend on the stage of your syphilis. In some people, treatment can cause flu-like symptoms, such as a high temperature, headache and aching muscles.
This usually lasts for up to 24 hours. You'll need to go back to the GP surgery or sexual health clinic 6 and 12 weeks after starting treatment to be retested.
Sexually Transmitted Infections Are On The Rise, So Here's Everything You Need To Know About Every Single One
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