Fast STD Testing: How Quickly Can I Get Results?
Understanding STD Testing
There are several different STDs for which testing is available. The method of testing may vary based on the specific infection.
Types of STDs Commonly Tested
Most sexually transmitted infections are either bacterial or viral, though there are a few exceptions.
Bacterial STDs include:
Viral STDs include:
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Herpes
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Human papillomavirus (HPV)
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Hepatitis
Trichomoniasis is an example of a sexually transmitted infection that is neither bacterial nor viral. Trichomonas vaginalis is a protozoan parasite.
Methods of Testing
There are several methods for testing for sexually transmitted infections. Testing for STDs may be performed due to symptoms of an STD, known exposure to an STD, or just as part of routine screening.
Some STDs are evaluated through blood testing, while others may be tested using urine or genital swabs. Testing may be performed in a clinic, in a laboratory, or even through home testing, depending on the specific STD being evaluated.
The Speed of STD Testing
The speed of STD testing may vary based on the specific STD being tested, as well as the method of testing.
Factors that Influence the Speed of Testing
Several factors can affect the speed of testing and the time it takes for results to come back. Some tests may take a few days to a week, while others may be available within a few minutes or hours.
The type of test being done can affect how long it takes for tests to come back. Blood tests may take several days to come back, though some tests, such as HIV, may take time after exposure to turn positive. Testing through swabs or urine may have a shorter turnaround time. There are a few testing options that give you near-instant results or that may come back within a few hours.
Rapid at-home STD testing is relatively new, and you may be able to get results as soon as 30 minutes in some cases. At-home testing for HIV may require confirmatory testing in a clinic or other medical setting.
Testing Options
If you have concerns about STD exposure or symptoms, or you just want to get tested to be safe, there are several options for testing.
Clinics
You can seek testing at a clinic, urgent care, or community health organization. Some health departments will offer testing. Students may be able to get testing through the student health department at their college or university.
Private Labs
You may be able to seek testing directly through the laboratory. Some labs allow for std testing. The cost of this testing may vary, and insurance may not cover the whole cost without an order from a clinician.
At-Home Testing
Many at-home labs offer at-home STD testing. You can generally order these kits online to be sent discreetly to your home. You then collect the sample according to the instructions provided in the kit. Some kits will provide you with rapid results in a few minutes, while others will require you to send them to the lab for analysis.
Interpreting Results
The first step is getting the test performed. The second step is interpreting the results and determining whether treatment is needed.
Understanding The Outcomes
Most STD testing will give you a positive or negative result. Occasionally, testing may be inconclusive. A healthcare provider should follow up a positive or inconclusive result. If you have a positive result, your partner may need to be tested and/or treated as well.
Importance of Follow-Up Testing
If you have tested positive for chlamydia, gonorrhea, or trichomoniasis, testing is often recommended several months after treatment. This is to ensure that the treatment has eliminated the infection. Testing is recommended three months after treatment. Additionally, syphilis infections as well as HIV infections require follow-up testing. HIV tests can take weeks to months to turn positive after exposure, so follow-up testing is generally recommended in these cases.
Counseling and Support Options After Testing
Positive STD test results can cause anxiety and result in additional questions and concerns. Your healthcare provider can offer counseling and support and discuss the ramifications of positive testing.
If you have ordered testing through a lab that provides at-home testing, you may be able to do a telehealth visit to discuss your test results.
Even if STD testing comes back negative, a healthcare provider can provide you with information about how to avoid STD exposure in the future, as well as advice on how often to consider retesting.
What to Expect When Getting Tested
If you’re getting tested for STDs for the first time, you may be wondering what to expect. It can be intimidating and sometimes embarrassing to talk to someone about sexual health. When having these sensitive discussions, your healthcare provider will prioritize your comfort and privacy.
Preparing for the Test
STD testing generally does not require any specific preparation. If you are doing an at-home test, it is important to prepare by reading all of the instructions that came with your test kit prior to performing the test.
Testing Process
The process for STD testing will depend on the type of test being performed. HIV, syphilis, hepatitis, and sometimes herpes simplex virus are generally tested through blood. The testing process involves a procedure called venipuncture, where a needle is inserted into a vein in the arm to draw a blood sample. Some at-home blood tests for STDs may require you to prick your finger and collect a sample.
Urine testing generally involves peeing into a cup. Gonorrhea, chlamydia, and sometimes trichomoniasis can be evaluated in this manner. These tests can also often be performed by swabbing the vagina or urethra. HPV is generally tested during a pap smear.
Importance of Regular Testing
Regular testing for STDs is necessary because many STDs may not cause symptoms. Testing for STDs should be considered anytime someone has symptoms of an STD, but regular screening in people without symptoms is also recommended in some cases.
Chlamydia testing is usually recommended yearly or anytime you have a new partner. This infection is one of the most common STDs and affects both men and women.
Gonorrhea testing is generally performed simultaneously with chlamydia, and is another very common STD that affects both men and women.
HIV testing is recommended regularly in high-risk individuals, as well as immediately and 6 months after exposure to someone known to have this infection.
Syphilis rates are increasing, and testing is often recommended if someone has symptoms or tests positive for another STD.
During pregnancy, STD testing is recommended early in the pregnancy as well as in the third trimester in high-risk individuals.
Take Control of Your Sexual Health With Everlywell
STDs can have a long-term impact on your health. STDs can cause permanent damage to the body and can even be life-threatening if untreated. While birth control helps prevent pregnancy, it generally doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted diseases. Condoms remain the only form of birth control that can protect against STDs, though other preventive options may be available for HIV in high-risk individuals.
If you are concerned about STDs, Everlywell offers at-home lab tests to evaluate for STDs. The Visby Rapid PCR At-Home Female STD Test can give women and people assigned female at birth results of testing for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis as fast as 30 minutes. Everlywell also has clinicians who can provide telehealth visits to discuss your situation and offer guidance on how to protect yourself.