Preferred Location: 1575 N Rivercenter Dr Milwaukee,WI 53212 Schlitz Park Change location
SaferSTD Preferred Location: 1575 N Rivercenter Dr Milwaukee,WI 53212 Schlitz Park Change Location
Listed among the worst cities in the country for STD rates, Milwaukee faces a very real problem. At least itโs not alone. Across the nation thereโs a growing STD epidemic.ย
Milwaukee reported the highest number of gonorrhea cases reported for any one city. Over 4,000 cases of gonorrhea were reported and, unfortunately, antibiotic-resistant strains of gonorrhea are now on the rise, as well.
One study sampled 127 people in a social group and found that 76 of them tested positive for either HIV, syphilis, or both. The city ranks 4th in the nation for rates of chlamydia and one of the worst in the country for HIV rates among men of color who are under 25 years old.
Many locations offer testing services in and around the Milwaukee area.
Locations include the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin on North Plankinton Avenue to the Brady East STD Clinic on East Brady Street, and the Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin Incorporated on West Wisconsin Avenue to Diverse and Resilient on North Holton Street. Many locations offer free STD testing services or operate on sliding scale fees in order to prioritize health care over profit. Waits, however can be long.
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 CDC2ย 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.ย
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.ย
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.ย
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.ย
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.ย
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.ย
SaferSTD has researched and identified reputable locations that offer upfront pricing without hidden fees. Click here to find a preferred location near you.
The Sixteenth Street was started to improve health care for the city's most vulnerable residents. They do focus on prevention but also provide testing. A physician will discuss ways in which you can protect yourself and there is also counseling available.
Some test results are back in minutes, others could take a few days.
The one thing that sets the Best D clinic apart is that is focuses solely on men. Women might feel a little out of place here. The clinic originally started as a way to address the sexual health needs of homosexual males and has expanded to include all men, regardless of their sexual orientation.
Rapid HIV tests will give you results in minutes, while other types of tests may take a few days to come back.
The goal of the Holton Street clinic is to keep healthcare affordable and accessible. Led by Dave Wenton, they are now specialized in HIV care. When you come in a physician will see you and a trained clinician will administer the test. You can expect results back in a couple of days.
APS Medical is primarily a pregnancy resource center. They also know that sexually transmitted infections are a problem for men and women's sexual health. Since they perform several services regarding pregnancy, you have the advantage of being able to talk to a physician.
You may have to ask for one, if you are only there for testing but they will be happy to talk to you.
When you are considering getting tested for STD, often the first clinic that comes to mind is Planned Parenthood. Their reputation for providing excellent health care proceeds them, and this includes their staff of physicians, nurses and counselors.
Once you've been tested, it may take a few days to find out if you need to come back in for treatment.
The Keenan STD clinic works with those that cannot afford traditional medical care. Their staff includes physicians and nurses who are licensed by the state. While they currently do not offer rapid testing, you can still expect to get results back in less than a week.
Call our Expert Care Advisors at
Accredited and Certified
These location types are best for: Privacy and convenience
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.
Accredited and Certified
These location types are best for: Privacy and convenience
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.
Accredited and Certified
These location types are best for: Privacy and convenience
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.
Accredited and Certified
These location types are best for: Privacy and convenience
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.
Description: AIDS Service Organization.
Description: Anyone is welcome. You donโt have to be a current patient at Progressive CHC to be seen at 12th Street Urgent Care. Last patient check-in 6:30pm
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Description: Community Based Organization. General Public. Young Gay and Bisexual Men of Color, MSM. Free condoms available. Testing hours: Monday-Thursday 9am-3pm (Except every 2nd Thursday per month)
Description: Social Service Organization. If you are uninsured, you may qualify for a state-funded program or a lower fee scale. Please bring the following documents: birth certificate, pay stub, photo ID. You will not be turned away because of your inability to pay. Open from 11am-5pm every 3rd Wednesday of the month
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: Saturday, 8am-12noon - limited availabilty
Description: Community Based Organization. Appointment preferred, but not required. No charge for Rapid HIV testing. Ryan White Part C HIV Primary care provider. Early Intervention Program (EIP) provides comprehensive medical care and social support services, including PrEP, Hormone Replacement Therapy, HCV testing and treatment, case management and linkage to care support services, cost of medications. No one will be turned away due to inability to pay or lack of insurance.
Description: Social Service Organization. Open from 11am-5pm the 3rd Wednesday of every month
Description: Community Based Organization. Native American clients only. Tribal I.D. required. Closed from 12noon-1pm daily
Description: General Public. Abierto al publico en general. Center can accommodate appointments to fit clients' schedule. Please call. Favor de llamar para programar una cita que se ajuste a su conveniencia
Description: Please call for information on free HIV testing. HIV and STD testing are $40. Trichomoniasis and Mycoplasma genitalium can be tested as well. Fridays and Saturdays: please call for schedule. Hepatitis A and B vaccines, and HPV vaccines are free. HIV, Hep C and Syphilis testing are also free
Description: Need to register as a patient to receive services.
Description: Social Service Organization. If you are uninsured, you may qualify for a state-funded program or a lower fee scale. Please bring the following documents: birth certificate; pay stub; photo ID. You will not be turned away because of inability to pay. Every 3rd Wednesday open from 11am-5pm
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department.
Top STD Testing Locations in Milwaukee, WI
Primary Item (H2)Testing is free for HIV and Hep C. You will need to call ahead and let them know you are coming.
The Sixteenth Street clinic has the expertise, knowledge and skills to provide quality health care to those that need it the most. They are patient focused and will treat each one with respect. Testing is free, you do not need to meet any financial requirements. All you need to do is call for an appointment.
1337 S Cesar E Chavez Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53204, USA
Services are free and you do not need an appointment. However, you must be there a few minutes before closing time. Once the doors are locked you will have to come back the next day.
For 40 years, the Best D clinic has been working to improve men's sexual health. It is one of the few clinics where guys can feel comfortable. Testing is free for all that come in and there will be a physician ready to answer your questions without judgement.
1240 E Brady St, Milwaukee, WI 53202, USA
Monday thru Thursday you can walk-in, but you will need an appointment if you need to be tested on a Friday or Saturday. Testing is affordable, prices are listed on their website. If you are over 14 years of age, you are welcome to come in.
The Holton Street Clinic is here to help you improve and protect your sexual health. The staff is compassionate and friendly. They will make you feel right at home. If you have questions they can answer them. You can also find referrals for other doctors, free of charge, if needed.
3251 N Holton St, Milwaukee, WI 53212, USA
You must call first, drop-ins are rarely able to be seen. Appointments are usually next day, but you can get in sooner if you call as soon as they open.
Since this clinic deals mainly with women that are pregnant, they do ask that anyone coming in for testing be 16 or older. Payment is also due at the time of testing.
Even though APS Medical is primarily a pregnancy center. They do have STI testing. It does come with a fee. Any return visits will also require additional payment. If you are on a budget, this could be a problem.
8501 W Lincoln Ave, West Allis, WI 53227, USA
Make an appointment online or call. If you need help paying for testing it is best to call first. Adults, 19 and older, may qualify for a reduced fee or even free testing.
Planned Parenthood is the leading expert in sexual health care, and this pertains to the one here. You will find that the staff is friendly and will work to make you feel at home. While you are waiting for your turn to be tested, check out the educational literature in the comfortable waiting room.
2207 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233, USA
Anyone without insurance, over the age of 12, can come in. You do not have to make an appointment. All test results will be delivered to you confidentially, even if you are a minor.
Keenan Sexual Health Clinic works to provide sexual healthcare to residents of Milwaukee that do not have or cannot afford insurance. They provide services to anyone that is 12 and older in a non judgmental environment.
3200 N 36th St, Milwaukee, WI 53216, USA
Now that you are aware of the health problem, itโs time for you to do something about. Along with a plethora of craft breweries, there are clinics, health centers and labs interspaced downtown and in suburban neighborhoods.
If a familiar name makes you feel more comfortable, Planned Parenthood, (W. Wisconsin Ave) will put you at ease. They will test for BV, genital warts, herpes and remaining STDs. Diagnosis and support are standard, and treatment for some transmittable infections is on hand.
Since insurance companies not always pay for services provided by the organization, it can be costly coming out of your pocket. Lower fees are possible, but you must meet the criteria and arrange it before your visit.
Itโd be easy to miss the Brady East STD Clinic walking down E. Brady St if it wasnโt for the colorful neon sign. Started in 1974 to care for the sexual health of homosexual and bi men, they actually accept anyone as long as theyโre a man. Theyโre not โagainstโ women only do not have the equipment or training to be of any service, except for Chlamydia testing. Both sexes are welcome for this type of screening.
Along with only being open to guys, this really is a free STD clinic. Donations are collected year-round and goes back into the facility. Theyโre only open on Monday and Tuesday for two hours, 6pm-8pm. If youโre not there by 7:30pm you wonโt be able to see a professional healthcare employee.
The Holton Street Clinic has partnered with the LGBT community center to provide tests for Syphilis, and exams for STIs. It is โby appointment onlyโ, and you will want to bring your insurance card with you. They do not have a sliding cost policy, and some specialized procedures can be up there in price. Standard doctorโs office hours are observed so you might need to plan on taking some time off of work.
UrgentCare is one of the least utilized resources, and this is a shame. These small ERs are there to care for every aspect of your health, and that includes your reproductive system. Tests for all sexually transmitted diseases are here, and the staff is well trained to answer any question you might have. Most have extended hours, though they differ at each location.
Their expansive parking lot is a bonus but remember you might be in for a long wait.
Thereโs no denying that the human immunodeficiency virus affects everyone. Itโs not just a disease thatโs relegated to gay and bi men, even though this is still a common misconception.
Clinics in primarily LBGT neighborhoods have always offered HIV and AIDS screenings, regardless of sexual orientation. They were one of the first to realize that the infection wasnโt limited and was a health concern that all needed to pay attention to.
Neighborhood emergency room also screen for HIV or check to see if it has morphed into AIDs when asked.
If these donโt appeal to you, Milwaukee has several other facilities that provide HIV and AIDS testing panels. Their hours might be more convenient or have locations closer by.
ARCW (AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin) in East Town has screened hundreds of residents for HIV over the years. Typical business hours are observed and most insurance is welcomed. What may interest you, especially if youโre worried about your HIV status is that results are disclosed during the visit. Counselors are on site to provide support.
Milwaukee Health Department and their partner, Keenan Central Health Clinic, provide testing and referrals for HIV and STDs. It is โwalk-in onlyโ so be prepared to sit and wait. They do respect their patientsโ privacy, and discounts are available to those that qualify.
Many of these centers offer free HIV testing in June. The 27th of the month is a national testing day.
When it comes to educating youth, Milwaukee isnโt taking any chances. Abstinence may be stressed, but other material is also included. High schools, in some areas, acknowledge that sex is occurring and are taking strides to ensure that students know how to protect themselves.
For some, education might still be missing but this doesnโt mean that there arenโt other resources. ARCW and Planned Parenthood are working to educate the community, along with other STI clinics.
At most testing facilities you will see literature on all sexual diseases. You can learn how to prevent them from spreading, and how to protect yourself. Even if this is covered in health class it never hurts to ensure that you know the risks, and how to stay safe. While youโre there, get a STD and HIV test.
Grab a beer during a brewery tour and take a stroll through the art museum. Just donโt forget that STIs are a real concern. Testing doesnโt have to be a hassle, if you choose a private facility. It only takes a few moments and youโll be glad you took the time to check up on your sexual health.
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.