5 Best At-Home STD Tests

Also referred to as: At-Home STD Screening

STD Tests: The prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) is increasing at an alarming rate. Each day, over a million new cases of STDs are reported globally, largely due to the fact that not all contraceptives offer 100% foolproof protection

The increasing prevalence of STDs and STIs is worrisome, as many individuals remain unaware of their sexual health status. According to Vanessa Apea, M.D., a consultant physician in sexual health and HIV in London, fear of stigma, anxiety, and life commitments are some of the reasons why people may hesitate to seek testing from their doctor.

Nowadays, with the wide range of home STD test kits, checking your sexual health status has become more accessible and convenient. After carefully analyzing over 30 at-home STD test kits, considering aspects such as price, availability, range of STDs tested, accuracy of test results, and collection methods, the Forbes Health editorial team has selected the most effective and discreet options.

[ Video ] At Home STD Testing: How Does it Work and Should You Get Tested?

FEATURED PARTNER OFFER

Labcorp Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Trichomoniasis Test

Three of the most common sexually transmitted infections can be screened for.
In-person sample collection at 2,000+ Labcorp locations
Results delivered 3-4 days from when your sample arrives at the lab
Price: $169 Promo FORBES10

Top Home STD Test Kits

Best for Test Kit Variety: myLabBox
Best for the Basics: Everlywell
Best for Fast Results: Nextmed
Best for Regular Testing: LetsGetChecked
Best for Medical Professional Advice: NURX

The 5 Best Home STD Tests

myLAB Box

The cost per test varies from $24 to $39, and the price for a test kit ranges from $59 to $399.
Comprehensive STI testing includes Chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, hepatitis C, HIV, herpes, syphilis, mycoplasma genitalium (MG), HPV, yeast, and bacterial vaginosis.
Types of collection: Rectal, oral, finger pricking, urine, and swabbing methods are used.

The Reasons Behind Our Choice

myLabBox offers a comprehensive selection of test kits that cater to both male and female genitalia, covering a total of 14 different STDs. Additionally, they also provide tests for yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis. Among our highly rated myLabBox test kits are the Total Box—14 Panel At Home STD Test Kit, At Home Chlamydia Test and Gonorrhea Test, V-Box—5 Panel At Home Vaginal Health Test Pack, and Uber Box—8 Panel At Home STD Test Kit.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Accepts both FSA and HSA funds
Of all the testing companies we evaluated, this one offers the most options.
Offers discreet and free two-way shipping.
Your results will be ready and sent to your email within two to five days.

Cons

A physician does not review the results of STD tests.
Some kits can have quite a high cost.

Additional Information

Users can benefit from a complimentary telemedicine consultation with a doctor and receive prescriptions on the same day if their test results are positive.

Everlywell

The cost is $28.17 per test and $169 for a test kit.
We test for a wide range of sexually transmitted diseases including chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis C, HIV, syphilis, and trichomoniasis.
Types of collections: blood (finger prick), vaginal swab, and urine collection.

Here's Why We Chose It

Everlywell provides convenient STD test kits specifically designed for both males and females, offering a comprehensive screening for six of the most common STDs. With these kits, you receive all the necessary tools to easily collect a sample in the comfort of your own home. In the event that your test results come back positive for any of the screened STDs, rest assured that Everlywell’s dedicated specialists will reach out to you promptly, free of charge. They will not only discuss your results in detail, but also provide guidance and, if necessary, prescribe the appropriate medication. The only variation between the kits lies in the type of sample required, ensuring that both males and females can conveniently and accurately test for STDs.

Pros & Cons

Pros

A board-certified physician meticulously reviews the test results.
Tests for six of the most common STDs
Tools for collecting samples at home are included.
Accepts both FSA and HSA funds

Cons

Doesn’t provide HPV testing.
Results from testing companies may take longer than expected, ranging from five to seven days, which is longer compared to most other testing companies.

Additional Information

Everlywell provides a cost-effective subscription service that delivers test kits to users on a monthly, quarterly, or semi-annual basis.

Nextmed

The cost of the test ranges from $21.27 to $49.75 without insurance, and from $12.44 to $13.90 with insurance. The test kit costs between $199 and $319 without insurance, and between $129 and $199 with insurance.
The test includes screening for a comprehensive range of sexually transmitted diseases, such as Chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis (RNA), HIV 1 and 2 antibodies and P24 antigen, herpes simplex virus 1 and 2 IgG, quantitative and qualitative syphilis testing, as well as Hepatitis A and B, and culture for mycoplasma and ureaplasma.
Types of collection: Urine collection and blood draw.

Reasons behind our choice

Ranking high for its rapid result turnaround time and comprehensive coverage of a wide range of STDs, Nextmed’s STD Standard and STD Complete kits are highly recommended. With these kits, you not only receive your test results conveniently through a secure online portal, but you also have the opportunity to consult with a doctor who can explain the results to you. Moreover, in addition to testing for STDs, both kits can be used to detect urinary tract infections (UTIs) through urinalysis. The STD Standard kit tests for 10 common STDs, while the STD Complete kit provides results for 15 STDs. In the case of a positive test result, there is even an option for re-testing to ensure accuracy and peace of mind.

Pros & Cons

Pros

You can access test results through the portal in as little as 12 to 48 hours.
You have the option to conduct tests either at home or in a laboratory.
Accepts HSA and FSA funds
Medical treatment and consultation at a discounted rate!

Cons

There is no possibility to conduct the test entirely by yourself. You can either go in-person to a lab for sample collection or have a nurse sent to your home for the collection process.

Additional Information

Nextmed provides the convenience of in-person testing at more than 5,000 partner locations. In the event of a positive result, qualified physicians affiliated with Nextmed will expertly guide you through the necessary next steps in order to develop a personalized treatment plan.

LetsGetChecked

Test prices range from $29.80 to $49.50 per test, and kit prices range from $99 to $249.
Tested for: Chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV (1, 2, P24 antigen), syphilis, mycoplasma, ureaplasma, trichomoniasis, and gardnerella.
Types of collections: Finger pricking and collecting urine samples.

Why We Picked It

The LetsGetChecked labs are CLIA-certified, ensuring that the kits are tested in a lab that meets established quality standards for clinical laboratories in the U.S. The Standard 5 kit tests for five basic STDs, while the Complete 8 tests for eight STDs. Topping our ranking is the company’s Basic 3 test kit, which tests for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis. In addition to providing convenience, LetsGetChecked provides confidentiality and offers a discount on monthly testing, making it a compelling choice for at-home STD testing.

Pros & Cons

Pros

You can easily collect samples at home by following step-by-step video tutorials

Samples can be returned for testing at no cost.
Accepts HSA and FSA funds
Get your confidential results in just two to five days.

Cons

Follow-up consultation and medication are not included in the price of the test kit.
Expensive

Additional Information

LetsGetChecked provides a subscription service that offers discounted pricing for test kits on a three, six, or 12-month schedule.

Nurx

The average price per test varies, from $37.50 to $44 without insurance and $15 to $25 with insurance. With insurance, the test kit costs $59.50, while without insurance, it ranges from $150 to $220.
Tests are conducted for STDs including HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, hepatitis C, and trichomoniasis.
Types of samples for collection include urine, throat swabs, rectal swabs, and finger pricks.

Why We Picked It

Nurx’s Full Control, Healthy V, and Basics Covered kits have all secured a spot in our ranking, providing a variety of collection types for testing different STDs. The Full Control kit stands out for its inclusion of throat and rectal swabbing, enabling the detection of oral and anal STDs. Moreover, Nurx’s acceptance of insurance makes it one of the most cost-effective test kit options if you are covered.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Unlimited messaging with a doctor for an entire year for just $15.
Accepts HSA and FSA funds
Seek medical advice regardless of whether you test positive or negative.

Cons

Test kits are expensive without insurance coverage
No testing for herpes or HPV in its testing kits
Test results can take up to seven days

Additional Information

Nurx provides a wide range of essential services, including COVID-19 testing, HPV screening, fertility screening, pregnancy testing, skincare, hair loss treatment, and mental health support.

Methodology: How We Chose the Best Home STD Tests of 2024

In our 2024 Best Home STD Tests ranking, we thoroughly assessed more than 30 at-home STD test kits available on the market. Our evaluation covered a wide range of criteria, such as price, availability, number of STDs tested, accuracy of test results, and collection methods, among others. Each metric was assigned a specific level of importance, and star ratings were exclusively determined by the Forbes Health editorial team.

What Is a Home STD Test and How Does It Work?

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections that occur through sexual contact. The process of getting tested for STDs can be accompanied by stigma, as individuals may feel reluctant to disclose their symptoms to a doctor. Fortunately, the availability of home STD tests now allows people to conveniently and confidentially assess their health status.

A home STD test is a kit designed for testing a variety of STDs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, syphilis, and HIV, in the comfort of your own home,” explains Dr. Apea.

Although most testing kits can detect a range of STDs, “the specific kit provided depends on the symptoms or responses you provide while completing the home test kit,” states Ross Perry, M.B.B.S., founder and medical director of Cosmedics, a skin surgery center in the U.K.

Home STD tests function by collecting a sample from a targeted area. “Depending on the tests you request, you may need to take a swab (from the vagina, throat, or anus), provide a urine sample, or give a finger-prick blood sample,” explains Dr. Apea.

Typically, test kits come equipped with all the necessary materials and include instructions for conducting the test safely and accurately. Once the test is completed, the collected samples are sent directly to a laboratory for analysis. Results are often discreetly delivered via text message or email within a few days.

FEATURED PARTNER OFFER

Labcorp OnDemand STI Test

Three of the most common sexually transmitted infections can be screened for.
In-person sample collection at 2,000+ Labcorp locations
Results delivered 3-4 days from when your sample arrives at the lab
Price: $169 Promo FORBES10

Different Types of Home STD Tests

Various kinds of STD tests are available, such as the Everlywell home tests for individuals with male or female genitals. In contrast, the Nurx Healthy V Home test is suitable for those with vaginas.

Home tests can be used to detect various types of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), such as:

Chlamydia
Gonorrhea
HIV
Trichomonas
Syphilis
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis C

A wide range of testing methods are employed to gather samples and determine your current condition. These methods encompass finger pricks, urine collection, blood draws, vaginal swabs, and throat swabs.

Do at-home STD tests provide accurate results?

While no test can be guaranteed to be 100% accurate, Dr. Perry emphasizes that most modern STD tests are highly reliable, particularly when samples are collected properly.

It’s important to note that STDs may take some time to appear on a test, as each infection has its own incubation period. Dr. Apea advises that testing too early may lead to inaccurate results, so it’s best to wait if symptoms are not present. Generally, doctors recommend testing about two weeks after potential exposure, but keep in mind that different STDs and STIs have varying incubation periods.

Additionally, it’s crucial to ensure that your test kit is certified by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA) for the U.S. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) supports the CLIA’s establishment of quality standards for laboratory testing in the U.S.

When should you take a home STD test?

According to the CDC, one of the most effective methods to maintain your health is by undergoing STD testing. It is crucial to discuss any symptoms or concerns with your doctor, or alternatively, choose to use home STD tests, which offer privacy and confidentiality.

Cuando tengas cualquiera de los siguientes síntomas, según el Dr. Perry, es importante realizar una prueba casera de ETS:

Penis discharge
Increased frequency to urinate
Painful urination
Abnormal vaginal discharge
Lower abdominal pain

If you are encountering any of the aforementioned symptoms, it is imperative that you reach out to your doctor’s office straightaway. This is essential as you may necessitate a range of diverse tests, treatments, and examinations to effectively exclude the possibility of any complications, as advised by the esteemed Dr. Apea.

When to Visit a Doctor About STD Symptoms

If you have any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is important to contact your doctor’s office without delay. This is crucial because you may require specific tests, treatment, and examinations to properly assess and address any potential complications. Consultation with a healthcare professional is the best approach to ensure your well-being.

Summary: Best Home STI Test Kits

Ratings (4.9)

Best for Test Kit Variety

Ratings (4.3)

Best for the Basics

Ratings (4.3)

Best for Fast Results

Ratings (4.2)

Best for Regular Testing

Ratings (4.1)

Best for Medical Professional Advice

Sources: Forbes-Health | WHO | World Health Organization | CDC

Tags: at home std check at home std sti test at home std test corplab near me everlywell reviews labcorp near me labcorp result myLabBox next med reviews NURX std check std screening std testing STD Tests

5 Best At-Home STD Tests

Also referred to as: At-Home STD Screening

[ Video ] At Home STD Testing: How Does it Work and Should You Get Tested?

Show Summary

FEATURED PARTNER OFFER

Labcorp Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Trichomoniasis Test

Top Home STD Test Kits

The 5 Best Home STD Tests

myLAB Box

Everlywell

Nextmed

LetsGetChecked

Nurx

Methodology: How We Chose the Best Home STD Tests of 2024

What Is a Home STD Test and How Does It Work?

FEATURED PARTNER OFFER

Labcorp OnDemand STI Test

Different Types of Home STD Tests

Do at-home STD tests provide accurate results?

When should you take a home STD test?

When to Visit a Doctor About STD Symptoms

Summary: Best Home STI Test Kits

Best for Test Kit Variety

Best for the Basics

Best for Fast Results

Best for Regular Testing

Best for Medical Professional Advice

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