Written by: Adrienne Ton, NP

If you want to know the best way to know if you have an STD (AKA a STI or sexually transmitted infection), the best way to know is to get tested. Many sexually transmitted infections (STIs) present without any symptoms until later on in the disease. If you aren’t sure of your status, there are many ways to get tested.

Product We Recommend: 3-Panel STD Test

**Here are four ways you can get STI testing: ** Check in with a primary care clinic (such as your local doctor’s office or community health clinic) during a visit or an annual check-up. You can usually have a blood test and/or urine test, and/or other site testing (such as vaginal, oral, or rectal swabs) done for comprehensive STI screening.

Visit your local sexual health clinic. These are clinics focused on sexual health and treatment. Some are run by the local department of public health while others are run by private or nonprofit groups. Similar to the local primary care clinic, you can usually have a blood test and/or other multisite testing done for comprehensive STI screening here. For those who live in Denver or Vegas, come check out one of the TBD Care Hubs.

Check out a local health fair - some local health fairs may offer free STI testing. Keep in mind that some of this testing may be limited (for example, some health fairs may offer free rapid HIV screening but aren’t able to do other kinds of testing such as gonorrhea or chlamydia.

Product We Recommend: 5-Panel STD Test

Test from the comfort of your own home with an at-home STD testing kit. Home testing kits, such as TBD’s, are growing in popularity. They often come with all the supplies you need for a comfortable testing experience such as a little finger prick device, a container for urine, and/or swabs to check different sites for sexually transmitted infections. You get the benefits and peace of mind of safe and accurate testing, without the long wait at a clinic. Please note that although TBD Health includes a discussion with a clinician to come up with a treatment plan, some home testing kits don’t come with that.

The bottom line is that when it comes to STD testing, there are many excellent options. STD testing can sometimes feel scary or daunting, so it’s important to pick the clinic or testing company that you feel safe and comfortable with and that can make sure you get the most comprehensive testing plan that fits your needs.

This article provides information about sexual health, healthcare and/or related subjects. The blog content and any linked materials herein are not intended to be, and should not be construed as a substitute for, medical or healthcare advice, diagnosis or treatment. Any reader or person with a medical concern should consult with an appropriately-licensed physician or other healthcare provider. This blog is provided purely for informational purposes. The views expressed herein are not sponsored by and do not represent the opinions of TBD Health Inc.