Lab test

STD Testing

STD testing covers lab tests for sexually transmitted infections, allowing a person to order the specific tests they want without needing a doctor's referral beforehand.

Typical price

From $109

Results

1-3 business days

Preparation

See preparation notes below

Sample

Blood draw or sample collection at a local center

STD testing covers lab tests for sexually transmitted infections, allowing a person to order the specific tests they want without needing a doctor's referral beforehand. Samples may include urine and blood, and results are handled confidentially. People seek STD testing for many reasons: after a possible exposure, because of symptoms, or as routine screening with new or multiple partners. The exact infections covered depend on the panel chosen. Because several infections can be present without symptoms, screening is a useful tool. A healthcare provider can interpret results and advise on follow-up.

• Chlamydia trachomatis Detects the bacterium that causes chlamydia.
• Neisseria gonorrhoeae Detects the bacterium that causes gonorrhea.
• Trichomonas vaginalis Identifies the parasite that causes trichomoniasis.
• HIV-1/2 antigen/antibody Screens for HIV infection using antigen and antibody detection.
• Treponema pallidum (syphilis) Screens for the bacterium that causes syphilis.
• Hepatitis B virus Screens for markers of hepatitis B infection.
• Hepatitis C antibody Screens for antibodies associated with hepatitis C infection.
• Herpes simplex virus (HSV) antibodies Screens for antibodies to herpes simplex virus.

• People with a possible recent exposure to a sexually transmitted infection
• Individuals with new or multiple sexual partners
• People with genital symptoms who want a focused workup
• Those without symptoms who want routine confidential screening
• People whose partner has been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection

• A first-catch urine sample is often collected for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis
• Avoid urinating for about one to two hours before the urine sample when possible
• A blood draw is required for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis, and herpes testing
• No fasting is required for these tests

Each test included is reported separately. A negative result generally means the organism or marker was not detected, while a positive result may indicate exposure or an active infection. Detection windows vary between infections, so testing soon after an exposure may miss an infection and repeat testing may be advised. These are screening results, not a diagnosis. Discuss all results with a healthcare provider, who can interpret them and recommend any further testing.

• Alabama
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