Preferred Location: 14615 N. San Pedro, Suite 170 San Antonio,TX 78232 Main/Military Plaza Change location
SaferSTD Preferred Location: 14615 N. San Pedro, Suite 170 San Antonio,TX 78232 Main/Military Plaza Change Location
The STD rates in the San Antonio area hit record rates in 2015 for chlamydia, syphilis, gonorrhea, and HIV.
Located in Bexar County, with a population of little over 1.8 million, more than 13,000 residents were diagnosed with chlamydia and more than 3,900 with gonorrhea. These are the top two STDs in the state of Texas.
The number of reported STDs arenโt slowing down; in fact, theyโre growing more rapidly as time goes on, especially for cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and primary and secondary syphilis. These cases have been on the rise since 2012, rising more than as 293% in some cases in San Antonio.
The number of STD cases is especially high in adults between the ages of 20 and 29, but everyone who is sexually active should be tested.
The San Antonio Health District recommends that if you have one sexual partner, you should be tested once a year. If you have multiple partners, you should be screened every three to six months. The CDC recommends that all sexually active individuals should be tested for STDs at least once in their life.
Because STDs are such a large epidemic, there are many STD testing clinics available near you in the San Antonio area. There are public options available, such as Planned Parenthood on Charleston Boulevard, and many private options, as well. Some even offer free STD testing but not all sexually transmitted diseases might be covered. Even so, there is no reason not to get checked and protect your sexual health.ย
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.
Started in 1986, this non-profit organization works to eliminate HIV/AIDS in the area. What started as a grassroots foundation has turned into an organization that can test, treat and care for those that are positive for HIV/AIDS.
Along with counselors, there are physicians available to talk to. When it comes to getting your results back, it can take up to 2 weeks. It just depends on the type of test you took.
This clinic was started to provide care and support for those in the LGBTQ community. Since their initial start in 1990 they have expanded to include testing for the virus.
Not only can you speak to support staff but also physicians, regardless of their HIV status.
Test results can take up to 5 days but this is only if you select to not have the rapid test. If you choose rapid HIV testing, you can have your results back in 20 - 20 minutes.
The center first started to help those with substance abuse issues or who have been diagnosed with HIV. They have grown since then and now include testing, along with offering classes on how to protect yourself from contracting the virus.
Physicians are available, along with counselors and support staff. Results from the HIV test can take up to 7 days and you can select how you are notified.
Planned Parenthood treats a variety of sexual health issues. This includes testing for sexually transmitted diseases.
There is a wide variety of staff members on hand that include physicians, counselors and others that offer education and support.
If you choose rapid HIV testing you can have your results back in less than 30 minutes, otherwise you may have to wait a few days. HIV testing can take up to 5 days before you find out if you are negative or positive for the virus.
This is a fast paced clinic, which means that the staff is efficient. You might not get a lot of time with doctors but you won't have to wait long to be tested.
The time it takes to get your test results back will vary. Some results will be ready in a few days, while other could take up to a week.
Since 1971, the clinic has been meeting the health needs of those that need it the most. This includes not only testing for sexually transmitted infections but also treating them.
It is a full service health clinic so physicians are available. If you are curious about wait times for your tests, they generally take 2 to 5 days. You can also choose how you want to be notified when the results are in.
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: HIV services are provided to adults age 18 and older.
Description: Community Based Organization. Proof of positive-status for HIV related services.
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Description: Community Based Organization.
Description: Social Service Organization. 2nd and 4th Monday of the month: 9am-7pm
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: AIDS Service Organization. Free condoms available.
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department. Appointments preferred. Photo ID required. $15 administrative fee. Need to be registered 1hr prior to closure. Mon., Tues., Thurs., closed for lunch from 12noon-1pm
Description: Appointments needed for testing services. Lab services provided in partnership with an outside agency.
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department. Must be referred by a physician. There is a $15 administrative fee for visits. TB charges follow the current Medicaid rate; however, special arrangements will be considered.
Like most of the state of Texas, San Antonio has also seen a jump concerning STD infections, and Bexar County Health Officials only expect this trend to continue. They have not only seen an increase in Chlamydia and HIV diagnosis, but it has also experienced a return ofย all types of Syphilis. Between 2003 and 2011 the number of Syphilis cases tripled from 217 to an astonishing 693, which has many health officials concerned about the lack of sex education and testing facilities.
While Chlamydia and gonorrhea cases did not see the same drastic increase, each of these STDs also rose significantly in an 8 year period. Statistics recently released by the Bexar County health department also show,
This particularly surprised Texas health officials, who commonly saw African American women with the highest rate of some STDs in other Texas cities. While the higher percentage of sexually transmitted diseases in Hispanic men and women might be due to an increase in population, most city health professionals agree that education plays a large role.
Rates of leading reportable sexually transmitted diseases (per 100,000 people), Bexar County, 2009-2011
Trends in number of cases of sexually transmitted diseases, Bexar County, 2003-2011
Top STD Testing Locations in San Antonio, TX
Primary Item (H2)Anyone can walk-in for an HIV or Syphilis test. You can also schedule an appointment. Donations are appreciated, they help keep the clinic running, but you can also qualify for free testing.
HIV testing does not require identification, but you will have to provide it for Syphilis testing. All ages are welcome, though minors might want to ask if they need a parent or guardian.
This is not only a clinic, it is its own community. You can receive testing and care here, along with participate in fun outreach events.
They do have parking and are also close to the bus line. Getting there is relatively easy. It also helps that during the week there is a day where they have extended hours. This means you can stop by without missing work.
818 E Grayson St, San Antonio, TX 78208, USA
You can contact the clinic via their website or choose to just walk-in. Lines can be long but you won't be judged for your reason being there.
Free testing is an option, though you do have to meet certain income qualifications. You can find out more by visiting their website or calling the clinic directly.
Originally started to help those "less fortunate" with HIV/AIDS they have evolved into a clinic that not only tests but provides care.
They have several events throughout the year to bring AIDS awareness and you can track them on their website.
While their main focus is still HIV, they also treat a variety of other illnesses that could potentially change a person's life. Free parking is available and they are easy to get to if you decide to take the bus.
303 N Frio St, San Antonio, TX 78207, USA
Anyone is welcome, your ability to pay for the test does not matter. Donations, however are appreciated since it goes to help fund the center's many outreach programs.
The clinic does typically treat adults 18 and over but minors are welcome. They might want to call first to ensure that they do not need to bring a parent along.
Also known as Project Hope, the center wants to prevent other residents from contracting HIV. Their outreach programs include everything from prevention education to testing and treatment for anyone, regardless of their ability to pay.
While they cannot provide treatment, other than prescriptions, at the center. They are able to give clients referrals to other clinics.
2803 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78203, USA
You will need an appointment, and this can be done online or via a phone call. Identification is needed, though your results are confidential.
The center does not have free testing but does accept most government issued insurance plans. You will need to provide proof of insurance at the time of testing or pay the cost out of pocket.
The staff at the clinic works to make their clients feel welcome, and there are plenty of educational materials that can help prevent further exposure to STDs.
Physicians, counselors and other support staff are readily available to answer your questions. They can also help you get into a long term treatment facility, if this is what you need.
Located near by are several bus routes, and you can also park in the center's free lot.
2140 Babcock Rd, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
It doesn't take much to qualify for testing, you can call ahead or walk-in. However, if you do not have an appointment you should know that new patients must be registered 45 minutes before closing.
Insurance and other forms of payment are accepted. You can also ask about low cost testing that is covered under government plans. You will have to qualify, based on your income, but it is a viable option for many that have put off testing due to the cost.
Throughout the year the clinic hosts events that are designed to bring awareness about the dangers of sexually transmitted diseases. You can find a listing on their website.
They are located near taxi stands and bus lines. There is also a free parking lot next to the clinic. You do want to remember to get there 45 minutes before closing, if you want a test and haven't made an appointment.
512 E Highland Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78210, USA
Setting up an appointment is easy, you can call or schedule online. It is important to know that you cannot just walk-in. It is a busy clinic that serves the entire community.
You can qualify for free or low cost testing, just ask when you call. All ages are also welcome, though insurance used by minors might need parental consent.
This is a full service health clinic, so be prepared for crowded waiting rooms. You will have privacy during testing. The staff is bilingual to better serve the community and work to make everyone feel comfortable.
In some cases free testing is available. You may have to bring proof of income. This also applies to treatment, whether it is simply filling a prescription or longer term care.
You will appreciate how close they are to public transportation, along with their parking lot. Their lot is free but does fill up quickly, especially on Wednesdays when they have extended hours.
315 N San Saba #103, San Antonio, TX 78207, USA
Unfortunately,San Antonio follows governmental guidelines, preferring to teach abstinence instead of sexual education. This has many health officials and teachers to realize that while some students might be willing to abide by an abstinence contract, it is not enough to protect teenagers from the dangers associated with having unprotected sex. Even schools that have agreed to make condoms available for students that ask are still dealing with an abnormally high rate of sexually transmitted diseases.
This lack of education in the schools has lead to unprepared teenagers leaving for college and having the misfortune of becoming an STD statistic. They don’t understand that abstinence still wonโt completely protect against all STDs. Herpes and HIV can be transmitted without having intercourse, and often there are not any signs or symptoms until it is too late. Regular Herpes testing can prevent the virus from appearing and spreading, and prompt treatment will helpย with control.
Regular HIV testing in San Antonio needs to be discussed, especially with the lack of education. When everyone takes a few minutes to educate themselves, it is easier to prevent these diseases from spreading.
Recent statistics have shown that unlike other major Texas cities, San Antonio is one of the few with a higher rate of STD infections in Hispanic men and women. There is a large Hispanic population in San Antonio, but it is not significantly higher than other cities. This has led some health care officials to look to the demographics in the area, and they found that along with lack of education there are other factors that are causing the increase in STDs.
Strict religious upbringing, along with a fear the younger generation has of disappointing their parents has made it difficult for Hispanic teenagers to be open and honest about their sexual habits. With most not wanting to talk about sex, many teenagers are never tested until they are exhibiting noticeable symptoms and infected others. Language barriers between residents and health care workers are also a factor, along with a general mistrust of government officials.
While many of these demographics do not affect all San Antonio residents, there are others contributing to the steady increase in sexually transmitted diseases. The lack of available walk in clinics and an in ability to afford regular testing are also adding to the problem. With the rates of all sexually transmitted diseases expected to continue to rise, changes need to be made.
In between strolls on the river walk and tours of the historic Alamo, don’t forget about your health. While there are facilities, getting an appointment can be a frustrating experience.ย You can avoid this hassle and schedule confidential STD testing. Receive your results quietly and privately without the potential fear or embarrassment of seeing someone you know. It only takes 20 minutes, and you’ll have peace of mind while seeing all of the ย beautiful sights in this historic Texas city.
References:
http://www.cdc.gov/std/stats10/adol.htm
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.