If you’re getting tested for STDs, you want to see your results as quickly as possible. Whether this is a routine check or you’re showing signs of a sexually transmitted disease, you want to know what you’re dealing with – sooner, rather than later.
While you may have many questions about testing, you may be wondering how testing is performed, how long it will take to see your results and what you should do if you test positive.
Where to Get Tested for STDs
Until recently, STD tests could only be performed at clinics, doctor’s offices and hospitals. Now, you can order tests online, visit a testing center and get your results emailed to you. These so-called at-home tests allow you to remain private, which is often preferred when getting tested for an STD.
The method you choose is a personal choice, but many prefer at-home testing because it offers privacy.
While there are many at-home tests to choose from, it’s important to choose a company that is reputable and reliable, such as stdcheck.com. STD Check has performed over one million tests and there are more than 4,000 testing centers across the country. Tests are available for a variety of STDs, including herpes testing. They also offer a 10-panel test that covers the majority of sexually transmitted diseases.
How Does STD Testing Work?
Whether you choose the at-home route or make an appointment with your doctor, you will need to take an STD test in person for accuracy and safety purposes.
The type of test you take will depend on the STD(s) you’re getting tested for.
If you’re getting tested through your doctor’s office, you will have to go through an exam in most cases. Females who are getting tested but are not exhibiting any symptoms may not need a pelvic exam, but those who are will require one.
After taking a thorough sexual and medical history, the doctor may examine your genitals.
Based on the exam and your history, one or more of the following tests may be performed:
- Blood sample from a finger prick or blood draw
- Swab in the mouth
- Urine sample
- Genital swab
- Swab from sores or discharge
If you want a test done as quickly as possible and without having to answer these embarrassing questions, STD Check may be the better option for you. Testing takes just minutes, and there is no paperwork to fill out. You won’t have to answer questions either.
Depending on what type of facility you’re in, the test may be performed right there in the doctor’s office or clinic. Otherwise, the sample(s) will be sent out to a lab, which will perform the test.
Tests performed at hospitals and clinics can get quite pricey, especially if a pelvic exam is involved or if the sample needs to be sent to a lab. STD Check and other similar services offer lower prices and accept multiple forms of payment, so getting tested won’t cost you an arm and a leg.
What’s the Average STD Results Time?
One of the most common questions asked after getting an STD test. Naturally, you want to get the results as quickly as possible. While same day STD testing is rare, you will find that most places will have your results within a week.
If you go through STD Check, you’ll get your results within 48 hours – sometimes as little as 24. You won’t be waiting by the phone either because the results will be sent right to your inbox. You can also call the company at any time for an update on the status of your test.
What Happens If the Test is Positive?
If a test comes back positive, your physician will provide you with treatment options. Treatments will vary, but antibiotics are a common prescription for sexually transmitted diseases. You may also find that you’ve tested positive for a disease that has no cure, in which case you will be given options on how to manage your condition.
It’s important to notify all of your sexual partners if you test positive for an STD so that they may get tested as well and seek treatment as quickly as possible.
If you took the test through STD Check, you will have the opportunity to speak with one of their doctors. The doctor may prescribe a treatment or you may be referred to a specialist who can provide you with the appropriate treatment.
Making the decision to get tested for an STD is a difficult one, but one that should be made if you’re sexually active with multiple partners and/or engage in unprotected sex. The good news is that testing only takes a few minutes and you should receive your results within just a few days. Whether the results are positive or negative, you won’t waste several days or weeks stressing while you wait for the results to come in.
