Whether you’re an adult seeking sexual health or a young adult looking for how to get an STD test without your parents knowing, everyone should feel free to get tested without judgment. Although testing shows maturity and responsibility, some find the process uncomfortable or even embarrassing.
Due to the social stigma, there are many people who postpone the test or do not know how to make an appointment. Of course, people must feel lost in taking responsibility for their health. This article discusses the different ways you can get tested for STDs and the benefits of each way.
The Center for Disease and Prevention Control (CDC) recommends that all sexually active individuals get tested for sexually transmitted infections (STDs) at least once a year. This practice of active awareness puts the sexual health of both you and your partner(s) first. Getting tested will identify any infections and the treatment needed, while preventing the spread of STDs.
Doctors’ offices
Going to one of your regular doctors for testing may be the first idea that comes to mind. This could be your GP or a specialist doctor such as a gynaecologist, a specialist in women’s sexual health, or a urologist, a specialist in men’s sexual health.
Getting tested with a doctor will give you accurate results from trained professionals and treatment options when needed. However, this is not the most discreet way to be tested. Many people feel uncomfortable getting tested in public or uncomfortable discussing testing with their established doctor. Although check-in staff at some doctors’ offices and clinics use discreet methods to ask the purpose of the visit, some employees ask without regard to privacy. The speed at which you receive your test results can vary greatly and range from 3 to 10 business days.
Home testing
For those who desire a higher level of privacy, at-home testing may be a good choice as a basic test. There are products that can be purchased online or in stores such as Walgreens and CVS. With this test method you can take the test yourself at home.
No need for the awkward silence while you wait for the cashier to check your items; the kit can be ordered online and shipped to your front door. However, caution should be exercised when purchasing home tests online as many tests are not certified. Inaccurate results are also possible due to user error. Although home tests can reveal whether or not you have an STD or STD, your options for pursuing treatment for positive results may be limited.
Walk-in clinics
Other facilities that offer STD testing include walk-in clinics, such as urgent care centers or Planned Parenthood. These clinics are often cheap or free, depending on the location. As with a doctor’s office, you can expect accurate results from these tests. Another benefit is that a walk-in clinic is great for examining STD symptoms that can easily be confused with symptoms of other diseases.
However, walk-in clinics admit patients on a first-come, first-served basis. This means there may be a longer wait time, which can be difficult for people with full-time jobs. Another similarity with doctor’s offices would be the price. Depending on your access to insurance, the costs for the visit, tests, and any necessary prescriptions may vary. This method may also not be the best idea if your goal is to remain discreet; the laboratory may call or email the results and billing to your phone, email address, or physical home address.
Online testing
A fourth option for testing for sexually transmitted infections is online testing. Online Testing with Priority STD Testing offers a way to order STD lab tests online. Professional healthcare advisors are available by phone or chat to provide support. Once you place the order, an extensive network of FDA-approved testing centers (laboratories) are at your disposal. These test centers offer a number of different types of tests, so your reason for visiting will be confidential and not obvious to other people in the centre.
Testing at these centers will never involve invasive procedures or visual examinations, but only simple urine and blood tests. Once the testing center has these samples, you will receive fast and accurate results confidentially within 24 to 72 hours. The results are never sent to a physical address.
If you suspect that you may have contracted an STD, it is best to get tested as soon as possible. Getting tested sooner or later can prevent future complications with your sexual health. No one should be ashamed of staying healthy.