Your sexual health is important, but it can be embarrassing going to your doctor, or maybe you don’t live near a clinic. Or maybe you don’t have insurance, so the cost of a test from a doctor is prohibitive. Nobody likes going to a healthcare provider for STD testing. But at-home STD testing eliminates these issues. As long as you choose a reliable STD test kit.
We’ve rounded up the best kits for STD testing at home so you can assess your sexual health privately, accurately, and quickly. We’ve actually tested and scrutinized them for you, because how else do you really know how good they are (or aren’t)?
If you’re in a hurry and just want the very best at-home STD test, our top pick is LetsGetChecked because of its fast, discreet results delivery, good value, and range of tests. It also offers free consultations, so you can always get more insight into your sexual health.
Get Started With LetsGetChecked
Short on time? Here are our top picks for at-home STD tests
- LetsGetChecked – Six STD kits available and professional help from a nurse after your results.
- Everlywell – Provides ongoing STD testing and free consults if your test is positive.
- MyLabBox – Tailored kits for males and females with up to 14 tests. Fast. Private. Accurate.
- STDcheck.com – Tests for Hepatitis as part of the complete package and same-day testing available
- HealthLabs – Test allows you to detect HIV early, with quick test results.
How We Tested At-Home STD Testing Kits
In order to compile my list of the top at-home STD kits, I focused on specific features to ensure the privacy, accuracy, and comprehensiveness of the tests.
- Common STDs: I prioritized tests that screen for the most prevalent STDs and offer both bundled options and individual tests. This way, you can choose the test that best suits your needs.
- Discreet Packaging: Only STD kits with discreet packaging made it onto this list. This ensures that when your package arrives, nobody will know its contents, maintaining your privacy.
- CLIA Certification and Accuracy: I sought out STD kits that utilize CLIA-certified labs, which guarantees the accuracy of your results. This way, you can have confidence in the reliability of the information provided in your test report.
- Quick Results: I compared the turnaround time of each test to determine how quickly you can receive your results. Minimizing the waiting period allows you to promptly understand your sexual health.
- Cost: Ensuring value for money is crucial, and I carefully considered this factor to prevent you from overpaying for a subpar test. It’s important to find a test that offers both quality and affordability.
Our Best At-Home STD Test Kits Reviewed
1. LetsGetChecked – Best Overall
- Tests for all common STDs, including Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, HIV, Syphilis, and more
- Six tests available for more choice
- Professional advice from a nurse following your results
- Results available in 2-5 days
LetsGetChecked stands out for its accuracy, prompt results, and reasonable pricing. Additionally, it offers discreet, plain packaging for maximum privacy, delivered directly to your mailbox.
With six different STD test kits available, LetsGetChecked provides ample options based on your specific needs. Opting for the Complete 10 Kit ensures the most comprehensive results, as it tests for all common STDs and offers excellent value for money. Alternatively, if you have a specific concern, you can choose the Simple 2 kit, which tests for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea.
Sample collection involves a quick finger-prick blood test, then you just return your kit. Results have a really quick turnaround of 2-5 days so you’re not waiting long.
All of LetsGetChecked’s labs are CLIA, CPA, and INAB-certified, so accuracy is definitely one of its strong points. You can even discuss your results with a professional nurse over the phone for further support.
Choose Your LetsGetChecked Kit Today!
2. Everlywell – Best for Ongoing STD Testing
- Test for individual STDs or choose bundles to screen for Chlamydia, Herpes, Syphilis, and more
- Subscriptions available for ongoing, cheap STD testing
- Discreet packaging and testing
- Results within 5 days
Everlywell offers individual STD tests that are priced very low in comparison to others. These are a good idea if you need cheap STD testing and are concerned about a specific STD.
You can also choose either the female or male STD test for the complete package. This looks for seven different STDs and is obviously more expensive. It’s not too steep, but most other services offer a 10-in-one test for the same price.
You have the option of a monthly, quarterly or semi-annual subscription for ongoing STD testing – this helps you save dollars, too.
When it comes to privacy, though, Everlywell has you covered. Its tests arrive in plain packaging and your results stay anonymous, even when they enter the lab. This means the lab doesn’t know who you are while they’re analyzing your results.
Your at-home kit involves a finger prick and either a vaginal swab or urine sample. Return shipping is free. Your results are reviewed by a qualified physician for complete accuracy.
It only takes a couple of days to get your results. The online dashboard shows whether you’ve tested positive, and you can view personalized recommendations so you know what to do next. You can also speak to a physician to discuss your positive result.
Order Your Everlywell Sexual Health Kit Today!
3. MyLabBox – Best for Quick Results and Wide Variety of Tests
- Test for up to 14 different STDs, including Trichomoniasis, Mycoplasma Genitalium, HPV, and HIV
- HIPAA-compliant testing and reporting for dependable results
- Fast and free shipping sent to your home
- Results in 2-5 days
MyLabBox is a great choice with its mail-in kits for males and females. The most popular choice is the Uber Box which tests for eight common STDs, including HIV, Hepatitis C, Herpes, and Chlamydia.
The Uber Box offers good value for money based on the cost per test and it covers you for the eight most common STDs. It’s worth bearing in mind that the Total Box tests for 14 STDs and only costs you around $100 more, still giving you great value per test and checking you for a wider number of conditions. You also get an optional HPV test with the Total Box.
Both the male and female kits test for similar STDs, but the collection methods are different. For males, it’s a blood and urine sample, but the female kit requires a vaginal swab and blood sample.
Shipping is fast, free, and discreet, sent directly to your home. Taking the test doesn’t take long; at most, 15 minutes for the complete package with 14 tests. It’s also free to return the kit to the lab, so there are no hidden costs.
If you test positive for anything, you can receive a free consultation with a medical professional. You can expect to get your results in 2-5 days, which you can view on the online dashboard.
Get Checked Quickly and Discreetly With MyLabBox!
4. STDcheck.com – Best For Quick Testing and Results
- Tests for Hepatitis A, B, and C as well as all other common STDs
- Same-day testing available
- Easy-to-interpret results sent discreetly to your email
- Results in 1-2 days
STDcheck.com offers an all-in-one 10-panel test that screens for all major STDs, including Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Herpes, Syphilis, and more.
It’s actually one of the few kits that test for Hepatitis A, B, and C in its complete package, and it won’t cost you an arm and a leg either. You can also choose the HIV Early Detection Test but this costs more.
You can take the STD test on the same day you ordered it if your chosen clinic has an available slot. This is great news if you’re concerned and in a hurry. There are plenty of clinics to choose from, with over 4,500 testing centers across the US. And you can use their Find a Center tool to choose where you want to get tested. Even though you have to visit a clinic, the process is still discreet, with no extra paperwork or details required.
Your results are sent to your email in 1-2 days, which is really quick. STDcheck.com’s tests are FDA-approved, so you know your results are accurate. Your online dashboard tells you whether you’ve tested positive or negative for anything.
If you need further support to interpret your results, you can speak with a doctor over the phone. It’s free.
Check your Sexual Health FAST With STDcheck.com!
5. HealthLabs – Best For Early HIV Testing
- Comprehensive testing that includes all common STDs and Early HIV Testing
- CLIA-Certified testing labs
- Confidential and secure results
- Results in 24-72 hours
HealthLabs has a huge variety of STD tests that look for all common STDs, as well as early HIV detection.
The most comprehensive test screens for 11 STDs, including HIV Type 1 and 2 and early screening – it can detect HIV in your blood before your body has even triggered an immune response. This level of testing doesn’t come cheap, though. It’s the most expensive STD test I’ve seen.
Your test involves providing a urine and blood sample in one of HealthLab’s CLIA-Certified testing centers. So although you order the test from your home, you need to visit a lab to take it. It’s highly confidential, though, and no one else knows what you’re visiting the lab for.
You can expect your results usually within 24-72 hours, even with the Ultimate STD Panel test. They’re uploaded to your secure online portal, which is completely private to you.
Get Tested With HealthLabs Today!
Some STD kits lure you in with a low price, but forget to tell you about extra costs like shipping and follow-up support. I examined the fine print of every at-home STD test on this list so there are no hidden surprises. All of the STD kits on this list offer free shipping both ways, apart from one. With many of these services, you also get free support following a positive result. Although the actual support is free, what about the numbers you have to call to speak to a physician? I checked them out for you and all lines are free of charge. STDcheck.com charges a fee for prescribing treatment and sending it to your local pharmacy.At Home STD Test Kits: Things to Be Aware Of
Understanding Your Results: Symptoms, Treatment & More
STDs vs. STIs: What’s the Difference?
The terms STD and STI are often confused, but they represent different stages of health conditions. STDs, which stand for Sexually Transmitted Diseases, refer to infections that have developed into a disease stage, characterized by evident symptoms and complications. On the other hand, STIs, or Sexually Transmitted Infections, may present with symptoms or remain asymptomatic. Essentially, all STDs start as STIs, but not all STIs progress to become STDs.
Different Impact on Men and Women
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can manifest differently in men and women. Though certain symptoms might overlap, some are gender-specific. Women, for instance, face an increased risk of long-term issues such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), potentially affecting fertility. On the other hand, men might experience conditions like urethritis, pain in the testicles, or discharge. It’s critical to acknowledge that STIs can be symptom-free in both men and women, highlighting the significance of routine testing for all individuals.
Common Symptoms of STDs and STIs
STDs and STIs can manifest through various symptoms, which can include genital sores or ulcers, unusual discharge from the penis or vagina, pain or burning during urination, itching or rashes, abdominal pain, and swollen lymph nodes. However, it’s crucial to remember that many infections, including some of the most common ones like chlamydia and gonorrhea, may not exhibit any noticeable symptoms.
Available Treatments
Treatment for STDs and STIs varies based on the type of infection and how severe it is. Antibiotics are usually effective for bacterial infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. For viral infections such as herpes, HPV, and HIV, there’s no cure, but symptoms can be managed with antiviral drugs and other treatments. Consult a healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and the right course of action.
When to Get Tested
Regular testing is crucial for maintaining sexual health. It is recommended to get tested for STDs and STIs if any of the following situations apply:
- You have engaged in unprotected sex or had multiple sexual partners.
- You experience symptoms associated with an STD or STI.
- You are planning to start a new sexual relationship.
- Your sexual partner has been diagnosed with an STD or STI.
- You have concerns or questions about your sexual health.
To promote sexual health and prevent the transmission of STDs and STIs, practicing safe sex through consistent and correct condom use, and maintaining open communication with partners is crucial. Regular testing, vaccination (where available), and seeking prompt medical attention for symptoms or concerns are proactive steps individuals can take to protect themselves and their sexual partners.
How to Talk to Your Partner About STD Testing
Discussing STDs with your partner, no matter how close you are, can sometimes feel a bit uncomfortable.
It’s crucial to undergo STD testing before engaging in sexual activity with your partner. However, if you haven’t done so previously, it’s never too late for both of you to get tested now.
Consider initiating a conversation about your sexual health history, whether you’ve previously been tested, what you know about your sexual health, and the importance of getting tested. This approach allows both of you to receive appropriate treatment if necessary and reduces the risk of transmitting infections to each other.
You might propose going for testing together or simultaneously ordering at-home test kits, providing mutual support throughout the process. This can make the experience more comfortable and ensure you both prioritize your sexual health.
Best At-Home STD Test Kits: Comparison
| Testing Company | Tests Available | Discreet Shipping | Follow-Up Support | Time to Results | Starting Price |
| LetsGetChecked | Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Hepatitis B, Herpes Type 1 and 2, HIV, Syphilis, Trichomoniasis, Mycoplasma Genitalium, Gardrenella & Ureaplasma | ✔ | ✔ | 2-5 days | $99 |
| EverlyWell | Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Hepatitis C, Herpes Type 2, HIV, Syphilis & Trichomoniasis | ✔ | ✔ | 2 days | $49 |
| MyLabBox | Chlamydia (gential, throat, rectal), Gonorrhea (gential, throat, rectal), Hepatitis C, Herpes Type 2, HIV Type 1 and 2, Syphilis, Trichomoniasis, Mycoplasma Genitalium & HPV | ✔ | ✔ | 2-5 days | $79 |
| STDcheck.com | Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Hepatitis A, B, and C, Herpes Type 1 and 2, HIV Type 2, and Syphilis | ✔ | ✔ | 1-2 days | $24 |
| HealthLabs | Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Hepatitis A, B, and C, Herpes Type 1 and 2, HIV Type 1 and 2, & Syphilis | ✔ | ✔ | 1-3 days | $89 |
Private Sexual Health Testing
STD testing at home is the solution to finding the answers you need about your sexual health, without the awkward and invasive testing you’d get in the doctors.
With an at-home STD test, you can see whether you have any STDs by taking a test in the comfort of your own home. Simply provide a sample, then wait for an accurate result in just a few days. Even if you don’t think you’ve got something, it’s always good to routinely check on your sexual health, and at-home kits make it even easier.
FAQs
How much does STD testing cost?
The cost of an STD test mostly depends on the number of STDs you’re testing for. They also vary by provider.
You can pay anything in the range of $24 (for an individual test) to upwards of $300 for an all-in-one test that screens for 10+ STDs.
If you only want to test for one kind of STD, you might be better choosing an individual test, though the more expensive tests give you more comprehensive results. They also screen for other STDs that justify the expense, like early HIV detection and HPV.
Does insurance cover STD testing?
Your insurance provider usually covers STD testing, but only if it’s in a doctor’s clinic or laboratory. It’s unlikely that your insurance covers the cost of at-home STD testing. However, at-home kits (especially those in this review) are usually affordable, so you won’t have to pay out too much. Plus, you get more privacy that way, too.
What STD can be detected by blood test?
A blood test is used to detect HIV, Hepatitis A, B, and C, Herpes, and Syphilis. If you’re taking an at-home test, you only need to provide a finger-prick blood sample.
Other common STDs, including Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Trichomoniasis require a urine sample. Vaginal or anal swabs may also be required for some STDs, alongside a blood or urine test.
How long does an STD test take?
An at home STD test should only take you between 5-15 minutes, depending on the types and number of samples required.
How long does it take for an STD to show up on a test?
This depends on which STD you’re testing for, and it can range anywhere from one day to seven weeks. Here are the testing window periods for each STD:
- Chlamydia – 1-5 days
- Gonorrhea – 2-6 days
- Hepatitis A – 2-7 weeks
- Hepatitis B – 6 weeks
- Hepatitis C – 8-9 weeks
- HIV – 30-90 days
- Syphilis – 3-6 weeks
- Herpes – 3-6 weeks
- Trichomoniasis – 3-7 days
How soon after unprotected sex can I test for an STD?
Most people would think you should go get tested immediately, but you usually yield a negative result if you do this.
You should wait for the window periods for each STD before taking the test to get the most accurate results. For Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Trichomoniasis you only need to wait a few days, but other STDs require several weeks before you can take a test.
How accurate are STD tests?
STD tests are usually highly accurate, but remember, no test can guarantee 100% accuracy. The reliability of your result depends on a number of factors.
Firstly, whether you’ve taken the test within the window period for an STD. For example, if you took a test for HIV 5 days after having unprotected sex, it’s very unlikely it’ll detect anything, because it takes 30-90 days to show a positive result.
Since you’re taking the test at home, accuracy can also depend on how reliable your sample is. Did you provide enough urine? Did you use the swab as indicated? These all influence your results.
If you follow the instructions and make sure you know the window testing periods, though, you get an accurate result 99% of the time.
