Opting for an STD test from DollarTree might initially appear appealing, but uncertainties about its accuracy and lack of support in case of positive results can quickly become concerning. Conversely, splurging on an expensive STD test isn’t an ideal scenario either.
That’s why I extensively tested several at-home STD test kits and compiled a list of the most affordable options. Not only are these tests budget-friendly, but they also provide rapid results (usually within a day or two) and offer nurse or consultant support in case of positive results. Additionally, these tests boast high accuracy and discretion, ensuring both privacy and reliability.
If you’re in a hurry, and just want to know which test is the cheapest, I recommend buying a 10-panel from STDcheck.com. It’ll cost you only $139 and you’ll get your results in 1-2 days. Even if you’re only worried about one STD, this company offers the cheapest individual tests, starting at $24. However, nothing is that simple, and neither is the pricing of STD testing companies. So, if you have some time, read on to see which test might work best for you.
Short on time? Here are our top picks for the best at-home STD tests
- STDCheck.com – At only $139, this is the cheapest test kit on this list; it tests for 10 STDs, and the results arrive quickly. Its individual tests are also very cheap, some costing as low as $24.
- EverlyWell – Its male and female panel tests cost only $126 and test for 6 STDs (if you get a monthly subscription), and $169 if you get them as a one-time purchase. If you’re only worried about one STD, you can get their individual tests for as low as $69.
- LetsGetChecked – This STD panel test will cost you only $104 with a quarterly subscription (checks for 5 STDs), or $149 as a one-time purchase; unfortunately, it doesn’t offer individual tests, but it does have nurse support and delivers results quickly and discreetly.
- HealthLabs – The 10-panel test from this company costs only $139; however, you have to take it in a lab, which makes it less discreet, and the individual STD tests are not cheap or varied (there are only a few options).
- myLAB Box – This test kit costs $199 and checks for 8 STDs; if you want something cheaper, its 5-STD test kit costs $169; the results are fast and you also get a free consultation in case your test is positive.
The Cheapest At-Home STD Tests Reviewed
1. STDcheck.com – Overall Cheapest Individual and Panel STD Tests
| 💲Price | $45 to $139 (or $259 if you want HIV early detection) |
| ⏲Results in | 1 or 2 days |
| 💧Type of sample taken | Small urine or blood sample |
| 😷Doctor consultation available? | Yes, if your results are positive |
| ❓Test at home or in a lab? | In a lab (4500+ locations) |
STDcheck.com stands out primarily because of its competitive pricing. Not only does the platform offer cost-effective individual kits, but it also ranks among the most affordable options available. This value for money ensures that users don’t have to break the bank to ensure their health. Here’s the breakdown of its pricing:
| Type of Test | Price |
| 10-Test Panel | $139 |
| 10-Test Panel + HIV RNA Early Detection | $259 |
| Chlamydia & Gonorrhea Test | $99 |
| Chlamydia Test, Gonorrhea Test (individually) | $59 |
| Hepatitis A Test, Hepatitis B Test, Hepatitis C Test (individually) | $24 |
| Oral Herpes Test, Genital Herpes Test (individually) | $45 |
| HIV 1 & 2 Antibody (4th Gen) Test | $49 |
Another significant feature of STDcheck.com is its vast range of individual tests. You can opt for specific tests such as syphilis, chlamydia, HIV, gonorrhea, herpes, and various types of hepatitis. This customization is especially beneficial if you are only concerned about a particular STD. For those looking for comprehensive screening, there’s the bundled 10-panel test, which screens for 10 different STDs simultaneously at a very affordable rate.
While the convenience of at-home testing is attractive, STDcheck.com requires users to visit one of their labs to provide a sample. This might seem like an extra step, but it’s a crucial reason behind the speed of results. Tests are conducted on the same day you provide the sample, and results are dispatched within just 1 to 2 days. The entire process, from entering the lab to receiving results, is designed to be discreet. There are no cumbersome forms, no prying questions, and complete confidentiality is maintained, as our review process has confirmed.
The credibility of STDcheck.com is further enhanced by its FDA approval. This certification assures users of the accuracy and reliability of their test results. When results land in your inbox, they are presented in a clear, easy-to-read format, making it straightforward to discern any positives or negatives.
Lastly, in the unfortunate event that you test positive, STDcheck.com provides a valuable support system. A complimentary phone consultation with a qualified physician is available to guide and advise on the subsequent steps. This service is completely free, underscoring the company’s commitment to not just diagnosis, but also the well-being of its users.
2. Everlywell – Cheapest Monthly Subscription Plan
| 💲Price | $69 to $169 |
| ⏲Results in | 1 to 2 days |
| 💧Type of sample taken | Finger prick blood sample, vaginal swab, or urine sample, depending on the test |
| 😷Doctor consultation available? | Yes for positive results and you can also get free prescriptions |
| ❓Test at home or in a lab? | At home |
Everlywell stands out with its gender-specific STD screening options. They offer comprehensive tests tailored for both males and females, screening for the seven most common STDs relevant to each gender. This feature ensures that you can receive accurate screening without unnecessary expenses, especially if you’re unsure about which specific tests you need.
In addition to gender-specific screenings, Everlywell provides a selection of individual tests, catering to various needs. Users can opt for standalone tests for ailments like hepatitis C, syphilis, and trichomoniasis. They also offer a combined test for chlamydia and gonorrhea. One noteworthy aspect of these tests is their affordability. In fact, when comparing prices, Everlywell’s offerings are among the most cost-effective, ranking second cheapest on our list.
| Type of Test | Price |
| Male and Female Panel STD Tests | $169 (or $126 with a monthly subscription) |
| Chlamydia & Gonorrhea Test | $69 |
| HPV Test, Syphilis Test, Hepatitis C Test, Trichomoniasis Test, HIV Test (individually) | $69 |
Everlywell’s service doesn’t stop at just testing; they prioritize post-test support as well. Upon receiving your results, you are entitled to a complimentary phone consultation with a medical professional. These physicians take the time to thoroughly review your results, ensuring they are well-prepared to address any concerns or questions you may have. As an added benefit, if treatment is needed, they can prescribe it to you free of charge. While the treatment itself isn’t complimentary, the prescription is, saving users the hassle and cost of a separate doctor’s visit.
Privacy and discretion are core tenets of Everlywell’s service. Kits are dispatched in plain, unidentifiable packaging to ensure utmost confidentiality. Furthermore, when tests are returned to the lab, your personal details remain shielded. Physicians receive only a unique ID code, effectively separating your identity from your samples.
Finally, Everlywell prides itself on efficiency. Users typically receive their results within a matter of days. These results are then conveniently accessible via an online dashboard, ensuring they remain private and viewable only by the individual concerned.
3. LetsGetChecked – Cheapest Quarterly Subscription STD Kit
| 💲Price | $69 to $249 |
| ⏲Results in | 2 to 5 days |
| 💧Type of sample taken | Finger prick blood sample or urine sample, depending on the test |
| 😷Doctor consultation available? | Yes for positive results |
| ❓Test at home or in a lab? | At home |
LetsGetChecked is a good choice if you want to check your sexual health often without spending too much. They have different test packages, and you can save up to 30% if you choose their three-month deal. This means that every three months, they send a test kit to your home, and nobody can tell what’s inside the package.
The Standard 5 kit is a favorite among many. It checks for five common STDs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV. If you’re looking to spend less, they have cheaper kits too. Here’s a breakdown of all prices:
| Type of Test | Price |
| Simple 2 | From $69 (for a quarterly subscription) to $99 for a one-time purchase |
| Standard 5 | From $104 (for a quarterly subscription) to $149 for a one-time purchase |
| Complete 8 | From $174 (for a quarterly subscription) to $249 for a one-time purchase |
A cool thing about LetsGetChecked is that you can pay with special health cards like FSA or HSA. This might help you save more money.
The test kit arrives in discreet packaging for privacy. It requires either a small blood or urine sample, which you send back at no additional cost. Results are available in 2 to 5 days and are reviewed by a doctor for accuracy.
The results are very easy to understand. If you’re on their three-month plan, you can also see your old test results, which can help you see if there’s any change over time.
If your test finds something, don’t worry. LetsGetChecked lets you talk to a doctor for free. They’ll tell you what to do next, and you can talk to them as many times as you need.
Get Started With LetsGetChecked
What We Look for in At-Home STD Tests
Of course, at-home STD kits need to be affordable, but there are other factors that are very important to make sure you actually get value for money. Here’s what’s most important.
- Pricing: Is your chosen test a budget-friendly option, and does it have multiple kits available at various prices?
- Hidden costs: Is the price you see, the price you pay? Or will processing fees, shipping costs, and subscription fees be a surprise to you?
- Privacy: Is the packaging plain and discreet, and will the company maintain your anonymity throughout processing?
- Speed of results: Are your results ready quickly so you can get treatment if needed?
- Extra value: Do you get any extras included in the price, such as prescriptions, treatment, or follow-up support?
What’s in the Fine Print?
It’s crucial to be aware of any hidden costs when considering STD test kits. I meticulously reviewed the terms and conditions of each service to provide you with a clear picture:
Fortunately, none of the testing companies mentioned in this list charge extra fees for processing your kit. The fee you pay covers shipping both ways, which is a significant benefit. Some testing companies may cover the cost of mailing your kit but then require you to pay for its return.
STDcheck.com and Personalabs offer prescription services, but they come at an additional cost, so it’s important to keep this in mind when making your purchase. With Personalabs, you may even need to purchase a treatment kit separately. Everlywell, on the other hand, offers a free prescription service.
It’s worth noting that all follow-up calls you have after testing positive are included in your initial fee. In summary, what you see is what you get, with no hidden charges.
How Do the Best Cheap At-Home STD Tests Compare?
Interpreting Your STD Test Results
Once you’ve sent your test back, you’ll need to wait for your results. Typically, you’ll receive an email notification when they’re ready, and you can view them through an online dashboard or as a PDF attached to the email. The waiting period can vary from 24 hours to 5 days, based on the test you’ve selected.
Your results will list all the STDs you were screened for, each marked as “positive” or “negative.” To aid quick understanding, results are often color-coded, highlighting any areas of concern. Note that some companies may use terms like “reactive” for positive results and “non-reactive” for negative ones.
If your results are positive or reactive, accessing treatment promptly is crucial. Many testing services include follow-up support, offering you the chance to consult a doctor for advice and, in some cases, to receive a prescription.
What You Need to Know About STDs and STIs
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can spread through different types of sexual contact, such as vaginal, anal, and oral. When an STI shows symptoms, it’s often termed a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Typically, the infection stage precedes the disease stage.
Though “STI” and “STD” are often used interchangeably, partly to reduce the stigma around “STD,” they technically indicate different phases of the same condition. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2018 indicated that around 20% of the U.S. population had an STI or STD.
A major issue with STIs is that many remain undetected due to non-existent or very mild symptoms. However, common symptoms of STDs can include pain during intercourse, discharge or a burning sensation in the urethra for penis owners, genital ulcers, bumps, or sores, itching, abdominal pain, and vaginal discharge.
Some common STIs include syphilis, genital herpes, gonorrhea, hepatitis B, HIV, genital warts or human papillomavirus (HPV), and chlamydia.
While the majority of STIs are contracted through sexual intercourse, it’s important to note that some can also be transmitted through nonsexual means, such as blood transfusions or sharing needles and syringes.
Knowing the common symptoms of STIs can help individuals seek prompt treatment. Symptoms may include itchiness or burning of the vagina or penis, pelvic pain, discharge from the vagina or penis, strong vaginal odors, vaginal bleeding that isn’t related to menstruation, sores around the genital area, anus, or mouth, frequent urination, pain during urination or bowel movements, and vaginal pain during sex.
It is crucial to prioritize sexual health by practicing safe sex, using barrier methods like condoms, getting regular screenings for STIs, and seeking medical attention if any symptoms or concerns arise. Early detection and treatment can help prevent complications and reduce the spread of STIs within communities.
How Accurate Are the Cheap At-Home STD Test Results?
It may surprise you to learn that at-home STD tests are highly accurate.
All of the testing companies on this list have CLIA-certified or FDA-approved testing laboratories, which use the same testing standards as you’d get in a doctor’s office. Some even use the same labs that your doctor would use.
Of course, no test is ever 100% accurate, but these are very close. You can occasionally have false positives or negatives, though, so always bear that in mind. False negatives are more common because STDs have different testing windows and can take a while to show up on a test.
A Cheap, Private Alternative to the Doctor’s Office
Maintaining privacy is crucial when it comes to sexual health testing, and at-home testing offers the perfect solution. By using an at-home kit, you can undergo sexual health screening without the need for uncomfortable examinations or invasive questions. Moreover, you’ll receive accurate results within a few days.
Regardless of your budget or specific testing needs, there are options available on this list that won’t burden you financially. I’ve carefully curated choices to accommodate various budgets and testing requirements. If you’re looking for the best value for your money, I recommend selecting LetsGetChecked . It’s not only quick and comprehensive, testing for all common STDs, but it’s also incredibly affordable.
Take testing one step further and learn about your general health and well-being, too. We’ve rounded up our top picks for at-home health tests.
FAQs
How much does an STD test cost?
STD tests vary in price depending on how many STDs you want to screen for. Individual tests start as low as $24, such as STDcheck.com, while more comprehensive kits like an STD panel with HIV early detection test from HealthLabs can be $300+.
More expensive kits usually test for 10 or more STDs at once and are good value for money if you have no specific concerns or just want to routinely check up on your sexual health.
How much does an STD test cost without insurance?
If you go to a doctor’s clinic, your insurance might cover the costs of an STD test. But at-home STD testing is a different story.
You need to pay for the cost of the STD kit, which can range between $24 to over $300. The cost usually includes processing fees, return shipping, and all the sample materials you need. Some testing companies even throw in a free follow-up call with a physician to discuss your results, such as myLAB BoxMyLAB Box and LetsGetChecked.
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Where can you get tested for STDs for free?
You might be able to get STD testing for a cheaper price or even free if you have health insurance. Check your terms and conditions to see if STD testing is covered.
It’s unlikely that this includes at-home STD testing, though, so you have to head to the doctor’s office instead.
Some Planned Parenthood centers also offer free STD testing, but you won’t be able to take the test in the comfort of your own home.
