Preferred Location: Change location
Preferred Location: Change location
In 2016, 23 people in Berkeley were diagnosed with HIV, at a rate of 19 per 100K people (the California average rate is 12.9), and there were 503 people living with HIV or AIDS; 7 people died of it.
Health officials are concerned that a large percentage of people with HIV in California do not know that they have it, and they aim to get them tested and treated. Some organizations offer free STD testing to help achieve this goal.
As for bacterial STIs, in 2017 chlamydia was diagnosed at a rate of 742 per 100K people, and gonorrhea at 303.2. Syphilis had a rate of 27.3, but there were no cases of congenital syphilis.
Berkeley has many STD-testing clinics, so you’re sure to find a location suitable for you. The Berkeley Free Clinic, located on Durant Ave, provides STD testing, but you will need to call ahead of time for an appointment. The Ann Chandler Public Health Center, on University Ave, tests for all STIs for a low cost. And University Health Services offers tests for UC Berkeley students.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention1 (CDC) recommends screening for the most common STDs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, syphilis, herpes 1, herpes 2, and HIV for both men and women. In addition, the CDC suggests women get screened for trichomoniasis.
SaferSTD recommends searching for locations that offer a 10-test panel which tests for the most common bacteria and viral STDs in the U.S. with additional premium add-ons like early HIV detection, if needed.
The CDC2Â provides detailed STD testing information as to when you should get tested. In summary, you should get tested today if you are sexually active, never been tested before, have had unprotected sex in the past, or if you exhibit symptoms.Â
According to the World Health Organization3, the majority of STI cases reported every day, more than one million, are asymptomatic; another reason to get tested today.
You should get tested again in 90 days to rule out STDs that have specific exposure waiting times, including HIV.
STD testing can be a quick and simple process, depending on the type of test you choose and where you get tested. Some may require an oral or genital swab, a urine test or blood sample, or a physical exam to check your genital area for signs of an STD.
SaferSTD has identified preferred providers that require only a urine test, a blood sample, or both without a physical exam.
The speed at which you receive your STD testing results depends on where you get tested. Before you choose your location, find out how long testing results will take.Â
At-home STD testing results are usually 3-5 business days, depending on the manufacturer of your test. You also need to take into account the amount of time it takes to receive the test or pick one up, perform the test, and ship it back, before the lab can analyze your results and report back to you.Â
If you test at a public facility such as a neighborhood clinic, you may have to wait a week, if not more for the results, which could delay treatment. If you test through a private facility, they have the fastest turnaround within 1-3 business days.Â
SaferSTD has researched and identified the most accredited and most reputable testing locations. Click here to find a preferred location near you.
Some STD testing clinics offer same-day walk-in options without an appointment. Below are nearby preferred locations that offer this option.
The cost of STD testing depends on whether you select private, public, or at-home testing, as well as the type of test(s) you need.
Several at-home STD options and public testing locations can cost up to $250, with most on the higher end, depending on the brand and type of testing. Public testing fees also vary based on income and welfare eligibility.Â
With private testing, you may save money on a low-cost comprehensive 10-test panel that tests for the most common bacterial and viral STDs in the United States.Â
SaferSTD has researched and identified reputable locations that offer upfront pricing without hidden fees. Click here to find a preferred location near you.
Order a home-test kit onlineThe test takes just 5 minutes and then mail in your sampleReceive your lab results in 2 to 5 daysFDA approved technologyEnjoy free shipping
The California Prostitutes Education Project is taking steps to lower the number of STDs in their community. One step they are taking is to offer testing at the majority of their clinics. There are three in the county that do so, right now.
Testing is done by a qualified technicians and experienced counselors are also on hand. You should expect to wait up to a week before learning your STD status.
The Hana Holistic Medical Center is taking steps to lower the number of STDs in their community. One step they are taking is to offer testing at the majority of their clinics. There are three in the county that do so, right now.
Testing is done by a qualified technicians and experienced counselors are also on hand. You should expect to wait up to a week before learning your STD status.
The Berkeley Free Clinic is taking steps to lower the number of STDs in their community. One step they are taking is to offer testing at the majority of their clinics. There are three in the county that do so, right now.
Testing is done by a qualified technicians and experienced counselors are also on hand. You should expect to wait up to a week before learning your STD status.
It is almost impossible to at least not be familiar with the name Planned Parenthood. They are leaders in research concerning sexual health care. Some may think they only perform one service but nothing is further from the truth.
You can easily get tested for sexually transmitted infections here. You also have the advantage of having a counselor to talk to when results are in.
The City of Berkeley Health and Human Services (Division of Public Health) is taking steps to lower the number of STDs in their community. One step they are taking is to offer testing at the majority of their clinics. There are three in the county that do so, right now.
Testing is done by a qualified technicians and experienced counselors are also on hand. You should expect to wait up to a week before learning your STD status.
The LifeLong Medical Care (LifeLong Ashby Health Center) is taking steps to lower the number of STDs in their community. One step they are taking is to offer testing at the majority of their clinics. There are three in the county that do so, right now.
Testing is done by a qualified technicians and experienced counselors are also on hand. You should expect to wait up to a week before learning your STD status.
These location types are best for: Privacy and convenience
Accredited and Certified
Description: Order online and receive a doctor's order to visit this lab to get tested in as little as 15 mins. Get your results privately within 1-2 business days and speak with a doctor over the phone if your test results come back positive. Doctors may prescribe treatment or refer you to a specialist if needed.
These location types are best for: Privacy and convenience
Accredited and Certified
Description: Getting an STD test at a clinic near you has never been easier. When you choose this location, you can get a doctor's requisition to get tested in as little as 15 minutes. Following your test, you receive your results privately within 2 business days, and can speak to a doctor over the phone with confidence, should results come back as positive.
These location types are best for: Privacy and convenience
Accredited and Certified
Description: Why go to a public clinic? Get convenient and fast STD testing that is 100% confidential. Individual tests under $50. Order online and visit this lab the same day for a quick 15 min test. Get your results online within 1-2 business days, and view them privately. Doctor consultation available over the phone, should results come back as positive.
These location types are best for: Privacy and convenience
Accredited and Certified
Description: Get Fast, Easy and Affordable testing at this location. Results come back within 2 business days and be in and out of the lab in less then 20 minutes.
Show only locations where privacy and discretion is taken into importance.
Show only locations where privacy and discretion is taken into importance.
Description: Safeway Pharmacy.
Description: Community Based Organization, The Berkeley Free Clinic provides STI testing, pregnancy tests, and other gynecological services for non-cisgender males (women, trans*, and other gender non-conforming persons). Free condoms available. Call or visit website for information on hours for specific services
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Description: No appointment necessary for a PrEP consultation, simply call 415-314-9987. Closed daily from 11:45am-12:45pm
Description: No appointment necessary for PrEP consultation, simply call or text 415-314-9987. Closed from 12:00pm – 1:00pm
Show only locations where they offer the HIV RNA Early Detection Test for people who think they may have been recently exposed to the HIV virus.
Show only locations where they offer the HIV RNA Early Detection Test for people who think they may have been recently exposed to the HIV virus.
Description: Social Service Organization. If you are uninsured, you may qualify for a state-funded program or a lower fee scale. Fees for services are based on your household income. The Health Center is open 2 Saturdays a month (typically 2nd and 4th); please check the online appointment schedule to verify if open
Description: open in the evenings on Mon.-Wed., 5:30pm-7pm
Description: Community Based Organization. Online form to request self-testing kits is open 24 hours a day
Description: Community Based Organization. Please call for information on HIV testing
Description: Community Based Organization. Call for HIV testing hours
Description: AIDS Service Organization.
Description: Hospital. It serves any youth ages 12 to 24 yrs
Description: A focus of the OASIS Clinic is attending to the healthcare and psychosocial needs of persons infected with hepatitis C (HCV), and residing in the greater East Bay community.
With STD rates up across the country it did not come as a great surprise to city leaders and health officials that it is the same here.
The data indicates that males are currently among those with the greatest risk, which is surprising to some health officials. The state and city do have comprehensive sexual education programs available and statistics show that this is helping lower infection rates in women, but the same is not true for men between the ages of 15 to 24.
While some officials point out that primary and secondary Syphilis rates are decreasing dramatically in men, since peaking above state averages in 2011, Chlamydia and Gonorrhea incidents are increasing significantly. What this shows is that while one STD may be slowing down, the city is still experiencing a serious health problem.
Some of the data that indicates the city still has a long way to go before all sexually transmitted diseases are under control include,
Testing isn't free, but they do accept insurance and Medicaid. During your phone call the staff can help you apply for financial assistance if you need it and don't have any yet.
Anyone over 14 can come in. The fees are often on a sliding scale. If you need help paying, ask before you go in.
California Prostitutes Education Project might be an urgent care clinic but they also handle STDs. They have a close partnership with an accredited lab so you won't have to wait long for results from your test.
Check the wait time online and go in at your convenience. They also have ample free parking, if you choose to drive.
2811 Adeline St, Oakland, CA 94608, USA
Testing isn't free, but they do accept insurance and Medicaid. During your phone call the staff can help you apply for financial assistance if you need it and don't have any yet.
Anyone over 14 can come in. The fees are often on a sliding scale. If you need help paying, ask before you go in.
Check the wait time online and go in at your convenience. They also have ample free parking, if you choose to drive.
2107 Channing Way, Berkeley, CA 94704, USA
Testing isn't free, but they do accept insurance and Medicaid. During your phone call the staff can help you apply for financial assistance if you need it and don't have any yet.
Anyone over 14 can come in. The fees are often on a sliding scale. If you need help paying, ask before you go in.
Check the wait time online and go in at your convenience. They also have ample free parking, if you choose to drive.
2339 Durant Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704, USA
If you call ahead you might be able to get in that day. You can also go online and look through their availability calendar and find a time that is best for you.
Anyone over 14 can get an appointment. without bringing their parents. Calling ahead can also get you enrolled in a plan that will help cover testing expenses.
You can everything from Pep and PrEP at Planned Parenthood. Free condoms are also available for men and women. After all these years, the organization is still at the forefront when it comes to protecting your sexual health.
320 El Cerrito Plaza, El Cerrito, CA 94530, USA
Testing isn't free, but they do accept insurance and Medicaid. During your phone call the staff can help you apply for financial assistance if you need it and don't have any yet.
Anyone over 14 can come in. The fees are often on a sliding scale. If you need help paying, ask before you go in.
City of Berkeley Health and Human Services (Division of Public Health) might be an urgent care clinic but they also handle STDs. They have a close partnership with an accredited lab so you won't have to wait long for results from your test.
Check the wait time online and go in at your convenience. They also have ample free parking, if you choose to drive.
830 University Ave, Berkeley, CA 94710, USA
Testing isn't free, but they do accept insurance and Medicaid. During your phone call the staff can help you apply for financial assistance if you need it and don't have any yet.
Anyone over 14 can come in. The fees are often on a sliding scale. If you need help paying, ask before you go in.
Check the wait time online and go in at your convenience. They also have ample free parking, if you choose to drive.
3075 Adeline St #280, Berkeley, CA 94703, USA
With state STD rates reaching an all time high, law makers have now made it mandatory for all public high schools to offer medically accurate and comprehensive sexual education classes to all students. Unlike the abstinence only programs which just glossed over a few basic facts on HIV prevention, the new classes address all current issues and concerns.
Even though studies have consistently shown that the best way to protect teens and adults from the dangers of STDs is to be informed, some parents are still resisting the change to the new informative program. With Berkeley’s reputation for free thinking and non conservative values, this reluctance to discuss sex and STDs continues to perplex health officials.
Until everyone is comfortable discussing sex and STDs regular HIV testing in Berkeley remains an important part of taking care of your sexual health. Regular Herpes testing in Berkeley is also important.
There is no denying that demographics play a key role in the STD rates for an area, and this is also true for Berkeley. While residents of the city are typically open minded and have a strong belief in free speech, the majority still find discussions concerning STDs and sex uncomfortable. This inclination to simply ignore the problem in hopes that it will go away is not uncommon, and it is an issue health officials face in cities across the country.
Berkeley is also home to a large accredited college that brings in students from across the country, and many have never been tested for STDs. It is also not uncommon for many new students to be unaware of the dangers associated with sexually transmitted diseases or all of the ways the viruses can be spread.
Its close proximity to San Francisco Bay and its rich history during the 1960’s has also made the city a popular tourist destination. Visitors to the area can already be infected, and many do not even realize it until they have put others at risk.
With the beautiful San Francisco Bay in the background and home to Berkeley University, it is easy to forget that this laid back city is experiencing the same health crisis as the rest of the state. Recent budget cuts have forced many clinics to close its doors, which can make regular STD testing extremely inconvenient. It is possible to avoid spending the entire day in a crowded waiting room and take care of your sexual health, simply by making one simple phone call. You can easily schedule confidential STD testing and only spend 20 minutes or so of your time at a local lab.
Each page below contains a detailed report of the local area, location STD statistics and clinic reviews of some the top STD testing locations. The content is curated by our very own editors and medical experts.
