What is an at-home STD test?
What do the tests measure?
At-home STD tests detect the presence of specific STDs. Each STD requires a different laboratory test, so it’s important for people to make sure that the at-home testing kit they’re using is designed to detect the appropriate STD.
Some STD tests look for the genetic material, or DNA, of the bacteria, virus, or parasite that causes the STD. Other tests detect viral proteins, called antigens, or antibodies that are produced by the body in response to an STD infection. Examples of at-home STD tests, the necessary test samples, and what each test measures are listed in the table above.
How do at-home STD tests work?
At-home STD tests are mailed to your home for self-collection, or you may have the option to visit a local lab for assistance. You or the lab will send the sample to a CLIA-certified lab for testing. Most STD test results are returned within a week, often faster than that. If you test positive, at-home testing companies may offer support with physician follow-up and prescriptions.
Which at-home STD test should you choose?
Many at-home STD kits allow users to choose between different STD panels, each including a different set of tests. For example, a standard panel of STD tests may include testing for chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, syphilis, and trichomoniasis. A complete STD panel test may include a standard panel, plus testing for herpes and three types of bacteria associated with bacterial vaginosis (gardnerella, mycoplasma, and ureaplasma).
When should I get an at-home STD test?
If you’re sexually active, regular STD screening is one of the smartest things you can do for yourself and your partners. Many STDs don’t cause noticeable symptoms. You can carry an infection for weeks or months without knowing it.
You should consider an at-home STD test if:
- You’ve had unprotected sex. Vaginal, anal, or oral sex without a condom or barrier raises your risk.
- You have a new sexual partner. Testing early in a new relationship gives both of you a clearer picture.
- A partner told you they tested positive. Screening helps you figure out your own status and next steps.
- You have multiple sexual partners. More partners means more potential exposure.
- You’re experiencing symptoms. Unusual discharge, pain when peeing, sores, or genital itching can signal an infection, but many STDs cause no symptoms at all.
- You haven’t been tested recently. Annual screening is recommended for sexually active people under 25, and for anyone with new or multiple partners.
Talk to your health care provider about how often you should be screened based on your age, sex, and sexual history.
The Best At-Home STD Test
Methodology
At-home STD tests were reviewed based on value, convenience, and availability of tests. These overall factors are based on data including price, insurance acceptance, comprehensiveness of tests, and how quickly you can get results and speak to a doctor. STD test selections have been screened by Testing.com’s Medical Review Board.
Best Overall STD Test: myLAB Box
| Price | $169 (save 20% with code: Testing20) |
| Type | Self-collection |
| Sample | Blood, urine, vaginal swab |
| Tests for | Chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, trichomoniasis |
| Results timeline | Within two to five days of sample receipt |
myLAB Box STD tests are available to anyone age 14 or older, which is important given STD rates are highest among adolescents and young adults. This test uses a blood, urine, or vaginal swab sample, which you then return in a prepaid envelope.
If you test positive, you’ll be given instructions on how to access your free telemedicine follow-up consultation. Depending on your infection and state regulations, the physician may be able to prescribe medication for you to pick up at your local pharmacy.
Reviewers point out how fast and easy the sample collection process is, saying it “only took minutes to collect samples” and was much more convenient than going to a local lab. One reviewer writes, “The whole process (from) start to finish was really fast. Instructions were easy to follow. Doing the test in your own home, and not having to answer personal questions, or sit in a waiting room makes it the perfect way to get tested.”
While myLAB Box doesn’t accept health insurance, you can pay with your HSA or FSA card. Note that just because myLAB Box accepts the card for payment, it doesn’t mean your plan covers at-home STD testing. It’s best to check with your plan provider before paying.
How do I prepare?
You won’t need to do much before collecting your sample. A few small steps help make sure the lab can use what you send.
- Read all kit instructions first. Each kit has specific steps for blood, urine, or swab samples. Skim the full guide before you start.
- Don’t urinate for at least one hour before a urine test. Collect the first stream of urine in the morning for the best results.
- Skip cleaning the genital area right before collection. Washing or using wipes before a urine or swab sample can throw off accuracy.
- Check the kit’s expiration date. Collection materials expire. If your kit is past its date, contact the company for a replacement.
- Plan your timing. Most kits ask you to collect and mail your sample on a weekday so it reaches the lab fast. Don’t collect on a weekend unless the instructions say otherwise.
What happens during the test?
You’ll do everything at home, at your own pace. The process depends on which STDs you’re testing for, but here’s what a typical multi-sample kit looks like:
- Wash your hands and lay out all kit materials on a clean surface.
- For a blood sample, use the lancet to prick your finger and fill the collection card or tube with the required number of drops.
- For a urine sample, urinate into the collection cup, then transfer urine into the provided tube up to the fill line.
- For a vaginal swab, insert the swab as directed and rotate it for the specified number of seconds.
- Place each sample in its labeled bag or container.
- Seal everything in the prepaid return envelope and drop it off at the shipping location the same day.
The finger prick may sting for a second. You might see a small drop of blood at the site. That’s normal, and no aftercare is needed.
When will I get my results?
Most results are ready within two to five business days after the lab gets your sample. You’ll get a notification by email or text when they’re available. Results are posted to a secure online account or app, so only you can see them.
Testing.com partners with CLIA-certified labs including LabCorp and Quest Diagnostics, and you can compare kits by cost, turnaround time, and privacy before ordering.
What do my results mean?
Waiting for STD results can feel stressful, and that’s completely normal. About one in five people in the U.S. has an STI at any given time, so whatever your results show, you’re far from alone in getting tested.
If your results are normal
Your sample came back negative (or “not detected”), meaning the lab didn’t find evidence of infection. That’s reassuring. But it doesn’t guarantee you’re infection-free.
If you were exposed recently, the infection may not have had enough time to show up. This gap is called the window period. It ranges from one to three weeks for chlamydia and gonorrhea, up to four weeks for trichomoniasis, and up to 12 weeks for hepatitis B and syphilis.
If you tested during a window period, consider retesting after the recommended time passes. Your health care provider can help you decide when.
If your results are abnormal
The lab found signs of an infection in your sample. A positive screening result isn’t the same as a diagnosis. Your health care provider may order follow-up lab work to confirm.
Many STDs are treatable with antibiotics or antiviral medications. Early detection makes treatment more straightforward. Some at-home testing companies connect you with a clinician by phone or video after a positive result. Depending on the infection and your state’s rules, they may prescribe medication.
Don’t put off reaching out for support. A positive result can bring up a lot of emotions, and talking to a provider or counselor helps you figure out clear next steps.