Getting tested for STDs can be an embarrassing process, whether it’s bringing up a conversation with your doctor or waiting to be seen at a free clinic. It’s no wonder that at-home testing for STDs has become increasingly popular. The idea of confidential STD testing at home seems more convenient: you can do it whenever you want, in the privacy of your home, and send the package at your convenience. There’s no awkward face-to-face conversation (at least, not with a medical provider) and the entire experience is on your terms.
But as with many things, at-home testing for STDs may be too good to be true.
Unfortunately, user error can reduce the accuracy of these tests. Most home test kits require you to prick your finger and collect a blood sample, genital swab, or urine sample, depending on the kit and what you are being tested for. It is possible to make mistakes when collecting the samples, which can make the test less accurate.
Due to these and other factors, home STD test kits have been shown to produce false negative results more often than tests performed in a laboratory or reputable testing center. What that means is that an at-home testing kit may tell you that you are free and clear, when in reality you may be infected with an STD and could pass the infection on to your sexual partners.
Suppose your home STD test is analyzed and you receive a notification that you have tested positive. Whether it is an accurate result or not, what does that mean? What are your next steps? Is treatment available? How do you receive it? In most cases, a doctor or pharmacy will not prescribe something to you just because a kit you bought online tells you to do so.
Something else that at-home STD testing cannot provide is a personal experience. While that may seem like something you’re trying to avoid, talking to someone about your testing experience and results can be helpful. It doesn’t have to be your doctor or someone at a free clinic either. With the rise of telemedicine, many STD testing providers offer online chat or phone options, giving you more privacy while still guiding you through the testing process.
While an at-home STD test may seem more private, it can sometimes be the opposite if someone you live with discovers the box, or someone on your street or in your building sees it on your doorstep or in your hands as you walk back . to your house. It’s also not nearly as fast as some other STD testing options, as it can take some time for the kit you ordered to arrive, get back to the lab, and for you to get results.
While at-home STD testing may seem like a convenient and personalized way to hedge your STD testing, you’re better off going to a reputable testing agency for results that are likely to be more accurate.