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Safer STD Testing is an informational referral website. It refers customers to nationally reputed private STD Testing service providers (“Preferred Service Providers” or “Advertisers”). Safer STD Testing is not a medical or healthcare professional facility or a provider of any medical or healthcare services. Safer STD Testing gets compensated on net purchase of products or services by our users referred to such Preferred Service Providers. Click here to read our full disclaimer.
Take Control of your Health

Gain access to Convenient and Confidential STD/STI Testing Options and Education

Multiple testing options, including Public, Private, and At-home
Personalized STD Testing solutions through our physician-created STD Test suggestion tool
Protect yourself and your partners with the most up-to-date sexual health education
You have questions and concerns. We offer answers and solutions
1 in 5 people in the U.S. have been diagnosed with a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI)
(Source: CDC)
Know the status of your sexual health and Call 1-800-666-1250 ( 8AM-5PM MON-FRI ) 
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For medical emergency, dial 911 or call for emergency medical assistance. We strongly recommend you to consult a qualified medical expert to diagnose and treat your specific medical condition(s).
Hello there

Welcome to SAFER STD Testing

Your STD information center, guiding you to health and awareness. We’re glad you are here
Who
What
How
Why
When
We are a team of doctors and educators who are passionate about your health.
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We are an online STD concierge referral service, providing educational content and our personalized test suggestion tool, guiding you to testing options and sites in your area.
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We offer three options for STD testing, enabling the process of purchasing tests, booking appointments, and receiving follow-up care through reliable providers.
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We understand this can be a confusing time and when armed with the proper information and services, you can easily and confidentially make your health a priority.
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Whether you choose public, private, or home testing, if you think you may have contracted an STD, the time to explore your options is now.
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optionS

What Are My STD Testing Options?

Private STD Testing

  • Privately operated or part of a nationwide healthcare network
  • Easily purchase FDA-approved STD tests online and head to one of 4500 locations near you
  • No appointment necessary
  • Guaranteed Privacy and confidentiality
  • Results within 2 business days, leading to fast treatment
  • If test is positive, get access to a physician, ask questions, and get prescriptions
  • Examples include LabCorp and Quest Diagnostics
LEARN MORE

Public STD Testing

  • Walk-in or make an appointment
  • On-site counselors in most locations
  • Results may take a week or longer, which can delay treatment
  • Affordable and at times, free of charge if you qualify
  • Privacy can be a challenge as waiting rooms are typically crowded
  • Test selections may be limited
  • Examples include Planned Parenthood, your local walk-in clinic, and healthcare centers
LEARN MORE

Home STD Testing

  • Conveniently performed in the privacy of your home.
  • There is a possibility of patient error with the lack of professional handling
  • Can be purchased either online or at your local pharmacy
  • Several choices for tests at various pricing
  • For ultimate privacy, confidentiality, and accuracy, tests can be ordered online
  • Test results are usually shared within two to five days
  • There may not be a follow up doctor’s consultation and therefore, treatment is up to you, causing a possible delay in treatment
LEARN MORE
AWARENESS

Get Tested and Take Control of Your Sexual Health

The World Health Organization reports that more than 1 million sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are acquired every day worldwide, the majority of which are asymptomatic.

Together we can fight the STD/STI pandemic our world is experiencing and has been for many years.

The negative stigma of a positive STI test has decreased over time and that means it is a conversation that needs to be had.

It also means that when more people are willing to openly discuss STDs and get tested, the number of infections can significantly decrease.

Questions? Call at 1-800-666-1250 ( 8AM-5PM MON-FRI ) 
Important for you

Why Get Tested?

STD/STI testing will help you protect yourself and your loved ones.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases may have delayed or no symptoms, therefore testing is the only way to know if you are positive
Untreated STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility in both women and men, while HIV can lead to reduced life expectancy and syphilis can lead to major organ damage
If you are sexually active, even if you haven’t had sexual intercourse, you are at risk for STDs.
STDs can be avoided. Take control of your health
GET TESTED TODAY
important for you

When should you get tested

Do not wait until you have symptoms that may never appear. Many STDs are asymptomatic, including Chlamydia, known as the “silent” infection.
If you are sexually active, and that definition includes oral and anal sex, our experts recommend a 10-Test Panel, which is a comprehensive STD testing package that covers the most common bacterial and viral STDs in the United States. Why?
Since different STDs are detectable at different rates, testing 2 to 4 weeks after unprotected sex, and then again 90 days after days after a potential exposure is suggested.
STDs are preventable. Get tested TODAY!
Gonorrhea
Chlamydia
Syphilis
Herpes
HIV
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis C
Trichomoniasis
Gonorrhea
Testing method: Blood test, urine test, anal swab, urethral swab, cervical swab, throat swab
Testing time: Under five minutes
When you should get tested after exposure: Within five days to two weeks of exposure and two weeks after treatment.
Chlamydia
Testing method: Blood test, urine test, throat swab, rectal swab, cervical swab, vaginal swab
Testing time: Under five minutes
When you should get tested after exposure: Within one to two weeks of exposure with retesting after three months. Pregnant women should re-test within three to four weeks after treatment to ensure that the infection has been successfully eradicated.
Syphilis
Testing method: Blood or spinal tap
Testing time: Under five minutes for a blood test, approximately 30 minutes for a spinal tap
When you should get tested after exposure: Within three weeks of sores appearing and six to twelve months after treatment.
Herpes
Testing method: Blood test or swab of mucosal sore
Testing time: Under five minutes
When you should get tested after exposure: One to four months
HIV
Testing method: Blood, saliva, blood nucleic acid
Testing time: Under five minutes
When you should get tested after exposure: 10 to 90 days, depending on testing type
Hepatitis A
Testing method: Blood
Testing time: Under five minutes
When you should get tested after exposure: Three to six weeks for hepatitis A and B, hepatitis C may take as long as eight to 11 weeks before antibodies are detectable
Hepatitis B
Testing method: Blood
Testing time: Under five minutes
When you should get tested after exposure: Three to six weeks for hepatitis A and B, hepatitis C may take as long as eight to 11 weeks before antibodies are detectable
Hepatitis C
Testing method: Blood
Testing time: Under five minutes
When you should get tested after exposure: Three to six weeks for hepatitis A and B, hepatitis C may take as long as eight to 11 weeks before antibodies are detectable
Trichomoniasis
Testing method: Blood test, urine test, anal swab, urethral swab, cervical swab, throat swab
Testing time: Under five minutes
When you should get tested after exposure: Within five days to two weeks of exposure and two weeks after treatment.
Protect yourself

How can you protect yourself
and your partners?

Reference: https://cdc.gov/std/prevention/default.htm
Abstinence
Abstinence
  • The only full-proof way of avoiding STDs
  • Includes vaginal, oral, and anal sex
Reduction of sexual partners
Reduction of Sexual Partners
  • Every eliminated sexual partner will dramatially decrease your risk of STDs
  • Ensure you are in control of your body and your choices
Vaccinations
Vaccinations
  • HPV, the most common STD can be prevented, avoiding cancer-causing infections
  • Most people who receive a Hepatitis B vaccine will be immune for life, avoiding severe liver infections
Monogamous Relationships
Monogamous Relationships
  • Get tested together to ensure you are healthy and not endangering one another
  • An STD can mean treatment failed before the relationship or one party does not share the same definition of “monogamous”
Condoms
Condoms
  • If you think condoms will ruin the moment, so will an STD
  • With steady and correct usage, condoms are extremely effective against STDs and pregnancy
Open Communication
Open Communication
  • Honesty in any relationship is a must, especially when it comes to your health
  • While the conversation may be uncomfortable, sharing your sexual medical history with your partner will keep you both healthy
ORDER YOUR TEST TODAY
Suggestion

STD Test Suggestion Tool

Physician approved questionnaire created by Internist, Dr. Aaron Wiegmann, MD and reviewed by Internist Dr. Alvin Krishna, MD.
Discover which STD test, including the comprehensive 10-test panel for peace of mind, fits your medical needs
Find the closest testing center near you
All answers are confidential and never saved in our system or shared with third parties
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Frequently Asked Questions

01.

Should I Get Tested for STDS?

  • Are you not sure about whether or not you should be tested for a sexually transmitted disease (STDs)?
  • Are you thinking about getting your and your partner tested before intimacy?
If you are one of the millions of Americans wondering if you should be tested for STDs, the answer will always be “yes”. Even if you are not sexually active, you can become infected. STIs are able to be spread through multiple methods, and this is not only limited to sexual activity. Some viruses, like Herpes are spread through casual contact, which makes it important for everyone to be tested regardless of their past sexual history. Common symptoms include:
  • Discharge from the vagina or penis
  • Itching/Burning during urination
  • Sores on the genitals
People of any age, race and gender can get an STD. The CDC reports that the number of people who are infected with STDs is on the rise[1]. If you’re concerned or uncertain about whether you have an STD, take the next step and visit a qualified health care provider who offers STD testing and counseling. It is also important to remember that many infections do not have symptoms. Many individuals have STDs and are completely unaware of it! Getting tested can erase your doubts and help you to stay informed about your body.
02.

Are STD tests expensive?

Even though this is one of the most commonly asked questions, it is almost impossible to answer. The tests are Fast, Private and Affordable even if you’re paying out of pocket. Dedicated care advisors at the toll free number provided above can help answer any additional questions regarding cost and payment at one of the private STD testing locations.

For public testing clinics it is even harder to predict. Many of them do not provide availability of all STD tests. Some tests are free but for many you have to pay out of pocket based on their eligibility criteria. To get additional information, please visit our location page to select a public clinic and contact them directly.

03.

If I am under the age of 18 can I still get tested without a parent/guardian’s permission?

While the law can vary from state to state in most cases you can get tested for all STDs without signed consent from a parent or guardian even if you are age 17 or younger, though it is still a good idea to check with the local laws in your area.

04.

If my visit is confidential, why do I need a photo ID?

The law requires that your visit and subsequent test is completely confidential and the results will never be shared with an outside party, and this is one of the reasons why you need a photo ID to confirm your identity. The picture ID card ensures staff that the results are being released to the right person, and it also helps the office personnel keep accurate records about their patients’ health. Already having your information on file also helps to improve your experience on future visits, and it can even speed up the procedure.

It is important for all clients to remember that all personal information regarding your health status is strictly confidential, and cannot be released without your explicit written consent. This also applies to any patients who are 17 years old or younger.

05.

When should I get tested?

If you are worried that you were exposed to a STD it is important for your health and that of your loved ones for you to make an appointment for testing. If you are sexually active with one or multiple partners whether or not protection was used it is recommended that you get tested for STD/STIs on a regular basis. Trying to understand what a “regular basis” is will often lead to confusion. The vague term is responsible for some people who are at a higher risk to put off the important health checkup, and this is contributing to the growing spread of sexually transmitted diseases. TODAY IF:
  • You’ve never been tested before.
  • You’ve had more than one partner
  • You’ve had unprotected sex
  • You’re about to start a new relationship
IN 2 TO 4 WEEKS:
  • You’re concerned about a recent sole sexual partner
  • You think you might have a new infection
AGAIN IN 6 TO 12 WEEKS:
  • Some infections take a while to develop symptoms. That will ensure the most accurate results possible.
  • Are you interested in seeing if you’re the right candidate for an STD test and are interested in understanding your private STD testing options?
Call and a care advisor would be glad to help you.
06.

Aren’t I automatically checked for STDs by my primary care physician?

Unless you are honest with your health care provider about your sexual activity or have specifically requested STI testing as part of your annual physical, it will not be included in your exam. An annual physical is simply a routine checkup to ensure that there are not any noticeable problems, and most health care practitioners do not consider STI testing a part of a regular exam.

07.

If I have unprotected sex over the weekend can I get tested on Monday?

The answer to this question is a little more complicated than a simple “yes or no”. You can get tested for any of the sexually transmitted diseases whenever you want, but some of the viruses might not be able to be detected. The incubation period can vary from a couple of days up to 6 weeks or longer for some STDs, which makes it important for you to return for another test. Contact a care advisor so they can give you the right custom recommendation.

08.

How are the STD Tests Done?

There are some people that feel fear and anxiety even at the mention of a health test, which makes them put off important checkups. If you are worried about how the STD test is performed you will be able to take a deep breath and relax. The simple procedure is quick, and the majority of those who are tested will never feel more than a quick prick of the needle when their blood is drawn.
  • Physical Exam—A health care provider may examine your anus, genitals, mouth, and other areas of your body for signs of STDs such as warts, discharge, sores, or rashes. For women, this exam is similar to pelvic exams. Some private testing providers do not require a prior physical examination and require only taking samples to conduct their testing.
  • Blood Sample—Your provider or assistant may take a blood sample that will be tested.
  • Urine Sample—To test for an STD, you may be asked to urinate into a cup.
  • Saliva, Discharge, cell, tissue sample—Your provider or assistant may use a swab to collect samples that will be examined.
A STD test will only take a few minutes, and it is noticeably faster than your annual health checkup. In most instances a health care professional will ask you a few routine questions about your lifestyle and sexual activity before the procedure is started. When you are tested for STDs, blood will be drawn or a urine sample collected. A swab of the mouth or genitals may be performed. The collected samples will be sent to a lab. Even those with a fear of needles will find that the blood draw for an STD test is no worse than any other routine blood draw. Testing is the only sure way for you to find out if you are infected with an STD.
09.

If I test positive for a STD can it be cured?

Some STDs can be effectively treated and cured. Gonorrhea and Chlamydia can be cured with antibiotics, along with Syphilis. It is important to start treating Syphilis early, before it begins to adversely affect your health. Hepatitis C can be cured with specific antiviral drugs. Herpes can be treated but there is currently not a permanent cure for the virus, and the same is also true for HIV and Hepatitis B. Even though there is still not a cure for all STDs, treatment programs are capable of effectively managing the signs and symptoms so you can lead a normal and healthy life. But the first step is to get tested for STDs.

10.

Can I contract the same STD more than once?

Even if you have just been treated for an STD, it is possible to contract the same one again or a different type of STD. You are never completely immune from STDs, which is why it is important to keep getting retested on a regular basis. The exception is that if you have antibodies against the hepatitis B virus to due to a prior hepatitis B infection or vaccine series, you’re immune to future hepatitis B infections[2].

11.

What is a rapid HIV test?

There might be times when you don’t want to wait for the results of a standard HIV test. A rapid HIV test – done with blood from a finger prick or an oral swab – can get the results back to you within a few minutes[3]. While the results are generally accurate, it is important to remember that the oral swab only checks for HIV and not any of the other sexually transmitted diseases. In most cases the only time this procedure is recommended is if you are worried about exposure to HIV and are not willing to wait for the standard test results.

12.

How Can I Be Privately Tested for an STD/STI?

One of the main reasons people put off STD/STI testing is the shame and embarrassment they feel when they run into familiar faces at the health center. We understand this reluctance to have others involved in the problems or issues you might be facing in regards to your sexual health, and we are dedicated to helping you get tested privately.

Our Preferred Service Providers can help you to get tested privately at one of 4,000 plus labs located around the country. They work together with these private labs to ensure your complete confidentiality.

When you are ready to take advantage of the private STD testing service, the process is quick and easy. You will need to pick up the phone and call the provided toll free number, and the helpful operator will walk you through the appointment process which will allow you to avoid the crowded community centers.

With a scheduled appointment at one of the private labs affiliated with our Preferred Service Provider, you will be able to relax and be tested without worrying about running into friends or family.

The STD test will only take 15 to 20 minutes which will still leave you with ample time to accomplish the rest of day’s tasks. One simple phone call is all that it takes to be privately tested for all of the STD/STIs.

13.

Do I have to have a STD test in order to get condoms?

You do not have to have a STD test performed in order to purchase condoms from a drug store, and the pharmacist will not insist on seeing your results. The CDC encourages everyone who is sexually active to use condoms, and there are often clinics around the city that offer the prophylactics for free. Some bars and nightclubs even have condoms by the door for patrons to grab on the way out. It is important to remember that while a condom can prevent STDs, it is still recommended that you get tested on a regular basis.

14.

Don’t I only need to be tested if I have sex with a new partner?

It is important to be tested for STDs after having sex with a new partner, but this is not the only time you need to think about your sexual health. It is important to remember that not all STDs are spread solely through sexual activity, and even those who have been with the same partner for years can still contract an STD. Screening for STDs should be part of your regular health care routine, not something that is only done when you are with a new partner.

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Reference

  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2018 Sexually Transmitted Disease Surveillance. https://www.cdc.gov/std/stats18/default.htm
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Hepatitis B Questions and Answers for Health Professionals. https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/hbv/hbvfaq.htm
  3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Types of HIV Tests | Testing | HIV Basics | HIV/AIDS. https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/basics/hiv-testing/test-types.html
  4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. STD Facts - Genital Herpes (Detailed version). https://www.cdc.gov/std/herpes/stdfact-herpes-detailed.htm
  5. Satterwhite, C. L., Torrone, E., Meites, E., Dunne, E. F., Mahajan, R., Ocfemia, M. C. B., Su, J., Xu, F., & Weinstock, H. (2013). Sexually Transmitted Infections Among US Women and Men: Prevalence and Incidence Estimates, 2008. Sexually Transmitted Diseases, 40(3), 187–193. https://doi.org/10.1097/OLQ.0b013e318286bb53
  6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Condom Fact Sheet In Brief. https://www.cdc.gov/condomeffectiveness/brief.html

Disclaimer 

Safer STD Testing is an informational referral website. It refers customers to nationally reputed private STD Testing service providers (“Preferred Service Providers” or “Advertisers”). Safer STD Testing is not a medical or healthcare professional facility or a provider of any medical or healthcare services. Safer STD Testing gets compensated on net purchase of products or services by our users referred to such Preferred Service Providers. Click here to read our full disclaimer.
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1-800-666-1250