According to the Center for American Progress (CAP), nearly 20 million new cases of sexually transmitted diseases are diagnosed every year in the United States. Undiagnosed and untreated Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), also called Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), can lead various health complications.
We compare the various STD testing options available to you so that you can choose the right combination of pricing, reliability, discreetness and convenience for your STD testing needs. All our partner providers are certified by CDC and you can always book a test with them with full confidence.
How much does the STD testing cost?
STD testing cost ranges between $24 and $444 in different labs and facilities across the US. It also depends on how many STDs or STIs you want to get tested for.
In the table given below, we have shortlisted the top 3 STD Testing providers in the US. For two of the three providers, you have to visit the STD testing center near you. One of the providers offers home STD kits and, hence, you can get tested from the comfort of your home.
No prior appointment is required. Compare the price, order your test online and visit the nearest lab during lab business hours or shop the STD home testing kit. Complete the procedure and get the results in your email in 2 to 3 business days.
Click the button below to know more about the individual STD testing cost, std testing package cost, tests covered in the different STD packages, and to compare the prices offered by the three providers in the US.
Name of our Partner Labs | Book Online |
STD Check Labs
| Starting from
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LetsGetChecked(Home Test Kit)
| Starting from
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HealthLabs
| Starting from$24 |
STD testing cost with insurance
STD testing can be done in two stages. First, screening tests are done to check the presence of microorganisms in the body which cause STDs. If the screening test results are positive, additional tests will be performed to identify the exact stage of the infection.
Many health insurance policies in the US do not cover the screening tests of STDs. But they might cover the cost of the additional tests performed. STD testing can be done at zero-cost or at a very low cost if the insurance company reimburses you.
Our STD testing providers offer screening tests for all sexually transmitted diseases. Even though our STD testing providers do not accept insurance, they can provide you with the itemized receipt containing all the details which are necessary for insurance reimbursement purposes.
The article below covers many topics of sexually transmitted diseases. The topics are
- STD testing cost (covered above)
- Top STD testing providers in the US (covered above)
- Transmission of STDs
- Most common STDs in the US
- Diagnosis
- Preparation to get tested
- Treatment options for STDs
STD Testing video by DxSaver
While a lot of details about STDs is given below in great detail, you may also want to check out a summary in a video we have made for the followers of DxSaver. It can be accessed by clicking the link below
What are STDs and how are they transmitted?
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections caused by bacteria, viruses, yeast, and parasites passing from one person to the other through sexual contact. As the warm and moist areas are ideal for the growth of these microorganisms, they commonly affect the genital areas of both men and women. STDs are also known as Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) or Venereal diseases. There are more than 20 types of STDs affecting both men and women.
Transmission
STDs are the most contagious diseases and are generally transmitted during vaginal, oral, or anal sex. They can also spread through blood contact and skin contact with the infected person. Rarely, there are chances of getting some STDs when you come into close contact with moist objects like towels, wet clothing, or toilet seats. A pregnant woman having any sexually transmitted infection can pass it to her child at birth.
What are the most common STDs?
Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) cases are at a record high for the fourth year in a row according to the data published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Among all the STDs, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Syphilis remain the most common STDs in the US with over 2 million cases being diagnosed every year.
The most common sexually transmitted diseases are mentioned below:
1. Chlamydia
Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases found in the United States caused by a bacterium called Chlamydia trachomatis. This bacterium affects both men and women. You may get eye chlamydia when you touch your eye without washing the hands after having sex. Some chlamydia-infected people never show any symptoms for several weeks but severe chlamydia can damage the reproductive system. Some of the common symptoms found in both men and women are
- Unusual discharge in the genital areas
- Frequent urinating
- Pain during urination
- Vaginal bleeding in women
- Pain during sexual intercourse
If Chlamydia is diagnosed at an early stage, it can be cured. It is compulsory for every sexually active young woman or man to get tested for Chlamydia infection every year.
To book the Chlamydia Test in the US, check Chlamydia Test Cost US
2. Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is the second most common STD found in the US. It is also referred to as “The Clap” and caused by the bacterium called Neisseria gonorrhoeae. This bacteria generally affects the eye, throat, and genital areas. Gonorrhea can be experienced with Chlamydia simultaneously. Gonorrhea doesn’t show any symptoms in some people but if it is left untreated it may lead to some serious complications. Some of the common symptoms experienced by both men and women are
- Swollen and painful joints
- Fever
- Painful urination
- Swollen neck lymph nodes
- Unusual discharge from the genital areas
- Pain in the testicles for men
- Painful sexual intercourse
- Sore throat
- Eye pain and sensitivity to light
If diagnosed at an earlier stage, Gonorrhea can be easily treated with the help of antibiotics. If it is left untreated, it may result in infertility in both men and women.
3. Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a liver inflammation disease caused by the Hepatitis A virus. This virus is transmitted through sexual contact, close personal contact, and contaminated stools. Hepatitis A vaccine can be given to prevent the disease. The common symptoms of Hepatitis A found in both men and women are
- Feeling tired
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
- Jaundice
Hepatitis A is not a chronic disease, unlike other infections. It can be treated with Hepatitis A immune globulin which helps to protect the disease in the initial stage after the exposure of the virus. Some people get better in a few weeks even without treatment. There is research ongoing to find out the better treatments.
4. Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is the most common serious liver infection caused by the Hepatitis B Virus (HBV). This infection has two possible phases namely acute hepatitis B and chronic hepatitis B. Acute hepatitis B refers to newly acquired infections and can be cured. Chronic hepatitis B is an infection where the virus lasts for more than 6 months in the body and it is very difficult to get rid of it. Since HBV is a blood-borne virus, it is transmitted via blood or fluids contaminated with blood. The common symptoms of Hepatitis B virus are
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain (near the liver location)
- Jaundice
- Pale colored stools
- Dark urine
Generally, acute hepatitis can be cured on its own whereas chronic hepatitis should be treated. Hepatitis B vaccine works well to prevent the disease.
5. Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is an inflammatory disease in the liver caused by the Hepatitis C Virus (HCV). It has two possible phases namely acute hepatitis C and chronic hepatitis C similar to Hepatitis B. Hepatitis C is a highly contagious disease transmitted through blood contact with the infected person. It may lead to liver cancer. The symptoms of Hepatitis C in both men and women are
- Jaundice
- Stomach pain
- Appetite loss
- Fatigue
- Nausea
Unlike hepatitis A and B, there are no vaccines for hepatitis C. It is compulsory to get regular hepatitis C screening tests. Hepatitis C can be treated with some medications like interferons and antivirals.
6. Herpes 1
Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV 1) causes Herpes 1 which appears more commonly in the genital areas and mouth. HSV 1 is also known as “Oral Herpes”. It is spread by casual interactions including kissing, sharing the lip balm, and eating from the same utensils. Symptoms of Herpes 1 are
- Blistering sores on the mouth
- Fever
- Headache
- Fatigue and tiredness
Till today, there is no cure found for herpes. Even though there is no remedy, treatment can be done to relieve the symptoms.
7. Herpes 2
Herpes 2 is caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (HSV 2) which is also known as “Genital Herpes”. People having multiple sex partners or having another sexually transmitted infection or people with a weakened immune system are at a higher risk of getting Herpes 2. The common symptoms of Herpes 2 are
- Blisters found in the genitals
- Itching sensation on the blisters
- Fever
- Muscle pain
- Painful urination
Blood tests of HSV 1 & 2 antibodies help to diagnose the herpes infection. There is no medicine to cure this infection but treatment can be done to relieve the symptoms. When the treatment is done, the virus becomes inactive and remains in the body until it is induced to be active again.
8. Syphilis
Syphilis is the bacterial STI caused by Treponema pallidum in both men and women. But men having sex with men are more prone to this infection. Syphilis has four stages namely primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary stages. It is more contagious in the first two stages. The tertiary stage is the advanced stage which is life-threatening. Initially, a painless sore called chancre appears on the genital areas and rectum. This indicates that the bacterium has entered the body. Other symptoms may include
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Hair loss
- Joint pain
These symptoms will go away after a period of time even without treatment but the syphilis bacterium will remain in your body at the latent stage. At the advanced stage, you may suffer from blindness, deafness, memory loss, heart disease, and/or neurological disorders. The only way to prevent syphilis is by having safe sex. Primary and secondary stages of syphilis can be easily treated with a penicillin injection. Syphilis infected people are also at a higher risk of getting HIV infection.
9. HIV
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) causes a syndrome called AIDS (Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome). AIDS is the most advanced stage of HIV. HIV has three stages namely the acute stage, chronic stage, and AIDS. There are two types of HIV called HIV 1 & 2. HIV 1 is the most common virus found worldwide. HIV affects the most important parts of our body and T cells of our immune system. It gets transmitted sexually, prenatally or through the blood. This virus cannot spread through air or water. The common symptoms of HIV infection are
- Fever
- Chillness
- Sore throat
- Joint pain
- Unexpected weight loss
- Sweating in the night
- Tiredness and weakness
- Diarrhea
- Dry cough
- White spots on the tongue or mouth
HIV is deadly and cannot be cured. But if diagnosed at an early stage and treated with antiretroviral drugs, HIV can be managed and your life can be extended. If it is left untreated, it will weaken the immune system to fight against infections. HIV 1 & 2 antibody tests are taken to diagnose HIV infection. Read more about the HIV RNA Early Detection Test in the US here.
Oral STD
Oral STD is getting a sexually transmitted infection through oral sex. It is nothing but the stimulation of genitals using the mouth and tongue. Gonorrhea, Syphilis, and Genital Herpes are the most common oral STDs found in the United States. Oral STD affects the mouth and throat both in men and women. Some of the symptoms of oral STD are sores and fever blisters in the mouth and having a painful throat.
What are the signs and symptoms of STDs?
Most of the sexually transmitted diseases do not show any signs or symptoms at the early stage of infection. So it is advisable to consult a doctor if you suspect of having an STI or being exposed to it. Some of the common symptoms found in men and women are
Symptoms in women
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Painful urination
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Lower abdominal pain
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
Symptoms in men
- Thick penile discharge
- Burning sensation while urinating
- Swollen testicles
- Anal itching
- Irritation inside the penis
- Painful bowel movements
Common symptoms
- Fever
- Headache
- Weight loss
- Diarrhea
- Joint pain
- Jaundice
- Sore throat
- Dry cough
- Night sweat
- Fatigue
How to check for STDs?
There are different tests available for the STD check. Your physician may ask you to take a particular test depending on the sexual history and the symptoms you have. You may be asked to take a blood sample or a urine sample or a sample using a cotton swab in the infected area such as mouth, throat, vagina, penis, or anus to check for STDs.
The ideal time to test for STDs
STDs like Chlamydia and Gonorrhea can be tested after a week of infection whereas other STDs except HIV can be tested only after a month of exposure. HIV requires a minimum period of 2 months to get tested.
Physicians recommend waiting for at least a week after the exposure to get accurate results.
How are STDs treated?
STDs can be treated using antibiotics at the earlier stage of infection. However, the treatment depends on the type of sexually transmitted infection you have got. There are some anti-retroviral drugs to manage the symptoms of the diseases that cannot be cured. It is very important to take all the antibiotic drugs prescribed for any STD even after the symptoms go away.
Are STDs curable?
Not all STDs are curable. Bacteria causing infections like Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Syphilis can be cured when diagnosed at an earlier stage. Viral infections like HIV, Herpes, and Hepatitis can be controlled but cannot be cured. Once you get these viral infections, they will stay with you for your lifetime.
What are the methods available to prevent STDs?
- Getting regular vaccination for contagious diseases like hepatitis
- Not sharing towels and underclothing
- Getting tested for STD regularly at least once a year
- Practicing monogamy – not having sex with strangers or people other than your husband/wife
To prevent reinfection, it is compulsory to do a check after 1 month of your past treatment and do not practice sex until you get cured completely.
Providers Locations
STD Testing can be done in any of the following states either by visiting the nearest provider or by ordering the STD home test kit.
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- STD Testing Cost in Florida
- Hawaii
- Georgia
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Mexico
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Puerto Rico
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
- STD Test Cost in New York
FAQ’s
Will insurance cover my STD testing cost?
No. Generally providers do not accept the insurance in order to ensure your privacy. However, they will provide you a receipt for insurance reimbursement purposes.
How should I book my appointment for STD testing?
You can choose the most suitable provider from above and make an appointment by following the instructions mentioned by them.
Can I cancel my lab test order?
Yes, you can cancel your lab test order anytime before your testing. A refund will be initiated after deducting the cancellation fee. However, cancellation is at the discretion of the provider.
Do the providers offer result interpretations?
Yes, few providers may provide doctor consultation who will take you through the results and provide clarification if needed.
How do I receive my report?
In order to ensure your privacy, the test report will be mailed to you by the provider.
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