What is STD testing?
An STD test detects infections that spread from one person to another during vaginal, anal, and oral sex. While you may feel awkward or embarrassed discussing STD testing with a healthcare provider, STDs are common, and getting tested is a responsible way to take care of your health and help protect others.
Ways STD tests can be performed include:
- Urine test
- Oral swab
- Genital swab
- A blister or sore swab
- Blood test
- Physical exam
When should I get an STD test?
If you’re experiencing unusual discharge, itchiness, pain, skin growths, blisters/sores, or other common STD symptoms on your anus, vagina, penis, lips, mouth, or throat, you should get tested immediately.
Even if you don’t have symptoms, it’s still a good idea to get regularly tested. Many times, someone can have an STD without having symptoms and infect someone else. It’s especially important to get tested regularly if you’re having sex with a new partner or multiple partners.
Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or are just getting a routine test, it’s recommended to remain celibate until you can confirm the status of your sexual health.
Does urgent care do STD testing?
Yes! vybe urgent care offers confidential STD testing at our locations throughout Greater Philadelphia. If you think you have a specific STD or just want to get a routine test, a clinician will help you determine which type of STD test you need. Some STDs can have similar symptoms, so your provider may recommend getting tested for a few different STDs.
STDs that can be tested include:
- Chlamydia
- Genital herpes
- Genital warts
- Gonorrhea
- Herpes
- HIV
- Pubic lice (Crabs)
- Syphilis
- Trichomoniasis (Trich)
How long do STD tests take?
In some situations, a clinician may be able to immediately tell if you have an STD if you’re experiencing visual symptoms like warts or unusual skin growths. However, the majority of STD tests are sent to a lab and take 3 to 5 days to receive results.
Select vybe urgent care locations offer a rapid test for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomonas that provides results within 30 minutes. This rapid test is only available for female patients and is on a self-pay basis.
How much is an STD test?
Without insurance, non-rapid STD testing at vybe is $135. If a blood draw is needed, an extra $25 will be charged. Any fees charged by outside labs will be billed separately.
Rapid testing for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis is $280 and is self-pay only. This test includes a clinician visit.
Generally, non-rapid STD testing is covered by insurance. However, the cost of STD testing with insurance can vary depending on your plan. Before coming in, please contact your health insurance provider to answer questions about your coverage or out-of-pocket costs.
What happens if I have an STD?
Being told you have an STD may make you feel embarrassed or upset but try not to worry. Many people get an STD at some point in their lives and it’s nothing to feel ashamed of. STDs are common and many can be cured with proper treatment. If you test positive for an STD, your provider will contact you, go over your test results, and provide a treatment plan.
While some STDs can’t be cured, there are many ways to treat symptoms and prevent them from spreading to a partner. Your healthcare provider will be able to answer any questions you might have about non-curable STDs.
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