Updated on
February 26, 2024 by Elly Hancock

5 Best At-Home Syphilis Test Kits in 2024

Taking charge of your sexual health is crucial, and it includes regular testing for sexually transmitted infections, such as syphilis. At-home syphilis test kits offer a way to do this testing privately and conveniently, eliminating the need for time-consuming clinic visits.

In my quest to find the best at-home syphilis test kits, I’ve put several kits to the test. My evaluation considered factors such as accuracy, ease of use, result turnaround time, and customer service. From this, I’ve compiled a list of the top DNA kits suitable for syphilis testing.

Among them, LetsGetChecked stands out as the top choice for at-home syphilis testing. The kit is easy to use, provides accurate results, and has a fast delivery time for results. Also, LetsGetChecked shines with its stellar customer support, making it a comprehensive choice for at-home syphilis testing.

Get Started With LetsGetChecked

Short on Time? Here Are the Best At Home Syphilis Test Kits in 2023:

  • LetsGetChecked – Budget-friendly bundle options with free support, results app tracking, and reports in a couple of days.
  • Everlywell – Individual syphilis testing, fast results, and subscription options for ongoing sexual health screening.
  • myLAB Box – Couples’ syphilis screening and more bundle options, plus free support with positive results.
  • STDCheck.com – Get results quickly with the same-day testing.
  • HealthLabs – Tests for different stages of syphilis.

See how each test compares I FAQs

How We Tested the Best Syphilis At-Home Tests

Here’s what I looked for when reviewing and evaluating each kit:

  • STD options: I found tests that offer a mix of individual syphilis kits and more comprehensive bundles.
  • Privacy: It’s important that your kit is discreet and unidentifiable, especially if it’s being shipped to your home. Every in-lab option also offers confidential testing.
  • Price: STD kits shouldn’t cost you your monthly paycheck, so I only chose those that are budget-friendly and worth paying for.
  • Time to results: Each kit on this list produces your report in a few days, so you aren’t waiting long for your results.

Best At Home Syphilis Test Kits Reviewed

1. LetsGetChecked – Free Support & Repeat Testing

  • Choice of two bundle kits that screen for syphilis and other common STDs
  • Discreet, plain packaging
  • Free physician support with your results
  • Results in 2-5 days

Price from$149.00
Our score9

LetsGetChecked offers two bundle kits that screen for syphilis alongside other STDs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, so it’s great for combining everything in one.

We were impressed with the discreetness of the packaging. There’s no way to tell it’s an STD test when it arrives at your home, which is great for privacy.

Both tests require a urine and finger-prick blood sample. My colleague’s kit came with fully detailed instructions and it only takes a couple of minutes.

Results are really quick, too. LetsGetChecked promises reports in 2-5 days, and we received ours in 3. It’s all accessible from an app, which we really liked.

Your report clearly shows whether syphilis was detected or not with an abnormal or normal result, with some extra information about what your results mean.

What we liked most, however, was the fact you can schedule a free call with a physician from your app to discuss your results. You can also order treatment at no extra cost, but unfortunately not for syphilis.

LetsGetChecked has subscription options so you can test for syphilis every 3, 6, or 12 months and save on cost, too. You can keep track of your repeat tests using the app, with all your results stored in one place.

Get Started With LetsGetChecked

2. Everlywell – Cheap, Individual Syphilis Test & Bundle Options

  • Individual syphilis test, plus male and female bundle kits
  • Results in a couple of days
  • Free support with positive results
  • Subscription option for ongoing testing

Price from$169.00
Our score8.5

Everlywell has an individual syphilis kit, so if you just want to screen for that and nothing else, it’s a good option. Or you can buy comprehensive male and female STD kits that look for all common STDs.

The kit arrived with pre-paid return shipping in plain packaging so it’s unidentifiable in the post.

If you go for the syphilis standalone kit, it’s only a finger prick blood spot. But the male and female STD tests require other sampling methods, including swabs. Regardless, it’s really straightforward and easy to do.

Results take a couple of days, which are accessible from your online account. My colleague’s report was clear and easy to understand – it’s also color-coded which makes it easy to identify any concerns.

The report came with some advice on further testing, but you only get free physician support if you test positive. They contact you to discuss your treatment options and offer advice. For normal results, you just get links to further reading.

You have the option to sign up for an Everlywell membership for ongoing testing. You pay a monthly fee of around $25 and can order any kit you like, so you’re not limited to just syphilis tests, but any of the health and wellness ones.

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3. myLAB Box – Couples’ Syphilis Testing

  • Individual syphilis test and couples’ box
  • Results in 3-5 days
  • Free consultation for any positive results
  • Free return shipping to the lab

Price from$199.00
Our score7

We like myLAB Box because it offers kits that you can’t find elsewhere, which includes a test designed for couples. The Love Box screens for syphilis and seven other common STDs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and herpes.

We were able to choose a male and male, female and female, or male and female kit, so there’s something for everyone. The kit came with different sample collection equipment for each person, with detailed instructions.

You can also buy an individual syphilis kit which is much cheaper and screens for just the one STD if that’s all you need. I’d recommend the bundle kits for better value for money, though.

The packaging is unidentifiable in the post and only took a couple of days to arrive. It’s free to return to the lab, too, and the envelope you send your sample back in is also discreet, which we liked.

Results take around 3-5 days, even with the more comprehensive test. We expected the individual syphilis test to turn around results even more quickly, but 5 days isn’t too long to wait.

Your report includes a reactive or non-reactive result. If you test positive, you also get guidance on accessing a free telemedicine consultation with a doctor to discuss your results and possible treatment options.

Get Started With myLab Box

4. STDcheck.com – Quick Results & Same-Day Testing

  • Get tested on the same day you buy your kit
  • Individual syphilis kit and 10-panel bundle test
  • Results in 1-2 days
  • Free call with a nurse for positive results

Price from$24.00
Our score9.2

STDcheck.com offers same-day STD testing, but it comes with a slight catch. You can’t take the test at home, but instead must visit one of their labs.

Thankfully, the testing process is very discreet. My colleague booked his appointment at the lab on the same day and was in and out within 15 minutes. He didn’t have to answer any further questions or fill in any forms, so no one knew what he was being tested for other than the nurse.

You have the choice of several different STD tests, too. There is a separate syphilis kit or the 10-panel test that screens for all common STDs alongside syphilis. This also includes hepatitis A, which we haven’t seen with many other STD kits.

You don’t actually have to make an appointment to visit the lab to get tested, but it can help reduce waiting times. Either way, you can go within a few hours of buying your test. This also cuts down results waiting times. My colleague’s report was ready in 1 day.

The report itself isn’t too impressive. It gives you a reactive or non-reactive result, but no further advice or explanation.

You do get a free physician consultation if you test positive, and they can give you a prescription for free that you take to your local chemist. You still have to pay for the treatment itself, though.

Get Same-Day Testing with STDCheck.com!

5. HealthLabs – Tests for Different Syphilis Stages

  • Choice of two syphilis tests that detect all syphilis stages
  • In-lab, same-day testing
  • Choose to get your results in lab, via email, or on a call
  • Results in 24-72 hours

Price from$65.00
Our score7

With HealthLabs, you have the choice of two different kits that can detect syphilis across all three stages. The T. Pallidum kit screens for syphilis in the later stages when it’s harder to detect, so if you think you may have had it before, this is a great choice.

There’s a rapid plasma reagin test, which looks for syphilis antibodies. We liked that the report not only shows you whether antibodies were detected but actually how many antibodies you have.

If you prefer a bundle option, there are plenty of other kits on offer. We particularly liked the comprehensive STD panel, which screens for 9 STDs, including early HIV detection, which you usually have to buy separately from other testing companies.

All HealthLabs tests have to be taken in the lab, so it’s perhaps not as discreet as other options. If you’re comfortable visiting the lab, though, it’s very straightforward and you can go without an appointment to provide your sample. You can also get tested on the same day you buy your kit.

One thing we really liked is that you can choose how you receive your results. They can be sent to you via email, you visiting the lab, or you can request a confidential phone call from a physician. Our results typically took 24-72 hours via email, so it’s very speedy.

Get Started With HealthLabs

How Accurate Are Home Syphilis Tests?

At-home STD tests achieve the same level of accuracy as those conducted by healthcare professionals because they utilize the same laboratories for processing both at-home kits and samples collected in clinics.

However, it’s essential to recognize that the timing of the test concerning potential exposure significantly influences the accuracy of STD results. Consider syphilis, for instance: to achieve optimal accuracy, testing should ideally take place 3-6 weeks after potential exposure. This window allows the virus enough time to develop for detection, as testing too soon after initial exposure may lead to false-negative results.

At-Home Syphilis Test Kits: Important Things to Note

Some STD tests might look cheap but they can come with hidden costs that quickly add up, whether that’s shipping, processing, or support.

All of the kits on this list that offer home shipping do so free of charge. That also includes return shipping, as your kit includes a pre-paid envelope to send your sample back.

LetsGetChecked offers free support regardless of your results, though many other companies like STDcheck.com and myLAB Box only offer free support if you test positive.

The quality of your sample can also affect your results, such as whether you provided enough urine or blood to detect an infection. Always follow the instructions as stated and read up on the incubation periods before taking your test.

Understanding Your Results

Your report will show you a positive or negative result, depending on whether syphilis has been detected in your blood. Sometimes, this can also be reported as reactive (positive) or non-reactive (negative).

If you chose a bundle option, your results will include the same information for other STDs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, herpes, and hepatitis.

What At-Home Syphilis Test Kits Test For

A syphilis at-home test kit is designed to detect specific antibodies produced by the immune system in response to the presence of Treponema pallidum, the bacterium that causes syphilis. These kits primarily utilize treponemal antibody tests, which can identify the antibodies generated as a result of an infection from Treponema pallidum. It usually takes a few weeks for these antibodies to develop after exposure to the bacteria.

One important thing to note is that treponemal antibodies can persist in the body even after successful treatment for syphilis. Therefore, a positive result from a treponemal antibody test does not necessarily indicate a current infection but rather signifies the presence of these antibodies, whether it’s from a past or ongoing infection.

On the contrary, nontreponemal antibody tests, which are typically administered by healthcare providers and not available as at-home tests, serve a different purpose. These tests identify the antibodies generated by the body in response to a syphilis infection but do not specifically confirm the presence of Treponema pallidum. Nontreponemal antibody tests offer supplementary information to healthcare providers, assisting in both the diagnosis and ongoing monitoring of syphilis infections.

To summarize, at-home syphilis test kits rely on treponemal antibody tests to detect the presence of antibodies produced as a response to Treponema pallidum infection. It’s important to note that these tests cannot distinguish between past and current infections. In contrast, nontreponemal antibody tests, which are not designed for home use, provide additional diagnostic insights for healthcare professionals. For a comprehensive assessment and proper interpretation of syphilis test results, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider.

When to Take an At-Home Syphilis Test

Testing for syphilis is important to ensure early detection and timely treatment, especially since many individuals infected with syphilis may not experience noticeable symptoms. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has outlined specific recommendations for regular syphilis testing, including:

  1. Pregnant people: It is crucial for pregnant individuals to get tested for syphilis, as the infection can be passed on to the unborn child and lead to severe health complications.
  2. Sexually active people: Regular testing is strongly recommended to detect and treat syphilis promptly.
  3. People with HIV: Individuals who are living with HIV have a weakened immune system, which can make them more susceptible to syphilis. Regular testing is advised to detect and manage co-infections effectively.
  4. People with partners who have tested positive for syphilis: If a sexual partner has been diagnosed with syphilis, it is important to get tested to ensure early detection and treatment if necessary.

In addition to these specific recommendations, Planned Parenthood, an advocacy group, suggests that anyone who has engaged in vaginal, anal, or oral sex without using a barrier method, such as a condom, should consider getting tested for syphilis. Since many STIs, including syphilis, can be asymptomatic, testing is an essential step in identifying infections and preventing their spread.

Symptoms and Treatment for Syphilis

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It progresses in stages and can cause a wide range of symptoms if left untreated. Here are the different stages and symptoms:

  • The primary stage of syphilis is characterized by the appearance of a painless sore called a chancre at the site of infection, such as the genitals, anus, or mouth. This sore can go unnoticed or heal on its own, leading individuals to be unaware of their infection. As a result, syphilis can easily be transmitted to others.
  • The secondary stage where symptoms can include a rash, flu-like symptoms, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, and fever. These symptoms may come and go over several weeks or months.
  • Latent stage, where no visible symptoms are present. However, the infection remains in the body and can cause serious complications if not treated.
  • Late stage when syphilis can affect various organs, including the heart, brain, blood vessels, and bones. This can lead to severe health problems such as cardiovascular issues, neurological disorders, blindness, and even death.

Fortunately, syphilis can be effectively treated with antibiotics, primarily penicillin. The specific treatment regimen depends on the stage and duration of the infection. In the early stages, a single injection of penicillin is usually sufficient to cure the infection. For individuals allergic to penicillin, alternative antibiotics can be prescribed.

It’s important to note that treatment can stop the progression of the disease, but it cannot reverse any damage that has already occurred. Regular follow-up tests are necessary to ensure the infection has been successfully eradicated.

To prevent syphilis, practicing safe sex by using condoms and getting tested regularly for STIs is crucial. If you suspect you may have syphilis or have been exposed to the infection, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly to receive proper testing, diagnosis, and treatment.

At Home Syphilis Test Kits: Comparison Table

  Syphilis Tests Available Best Features Time to Results Starting Price
LetsGetChecked Bundle options Free physician support

Subscription service

2-5 days $149.00
Everlywell Individual kits

Bundle options

Subscription service 2 days $169.00
myLAB Box Individual kits

Bundle options

Comprehensive bundle options for couple’s testing 2-5 days $199.00
STDcheck.com Individual kits

Bundle options

Same-day lab testing 1-2 days $24.00

Bottom Line

An at-home STD test not only saves you the trip to the doctor’s but also means you can get quicker (and often cheaper) testing in the comfort of your own home.

Our top choice is LetsGetChecked, because it offers a detailed report, fast results, and free one-to-one support.

If you’re looking for the best STD kits overall, check out our top 5 picks for discreet and budget-friendly screening.

FAQs

How much is a syphilis at-home test?

That varies depending on whether you choose an individual kit or a bundle option. Typically, individual tests for syphilis cost around $49, with the cheapest option being from Everlywell.

Bundle options are a bit more, usually around $100-$200. LetsGetsGetChecked offers a 5-panel STD kit for $149 that screens for syphilis as well as chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, and HIV.

How long do results take for an at-home syphilis test?

Results usually only take a couple of days. Some kits offer results in as little as 24 hours and same-day testing, so you can get your results even sooner. This is typically only for tests that offer in-lab testing and not at-home options, though.

Does insurance cover at-home syphilis testing?

Before purchasing a testing kit, it’s advisable to check with your insurance provider to see if they cover the cost. However, in many cases, you can use your HSA (Health Savings Account) or FSA (Flexible Spending Account) cards to make the payment, allowing you to save some money. Additionally, certain kits like Nurx offer the option to accept insurance and handle the billing process directly on your behalf, after you have paid an initial upfront cost.

How long should I wait before taking an at-home syphilis test?

Every STD has an incubation period, so you usually have to wait a few weeks after being exposed to the virus before you get tested. Otherwise, it’s unlikely it will be detected in your blood.

For syphilis, you should wait 3-6 weeks after exposure before taking your test. Always check your test first, though, because some kits offer early syphilis screening so you can get tested almost immediately.

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About Author
Elly Hancock
Elly Hancock

Elly Hancock is a professional writer based in the UK with experience of creating engaging web copy for a variety of industries, from internet technology and science, to food and nutrition. Her love for content writing stems from an ability to connect with readers, understand their needs, and provide solutions in an honest and easy-to-read manner. In her spare time, you can find Elly on long dog walks, cooking a new recipe, or in the gym.

Elly Hancock is a professional writer based in the UK with experience of creating engaging web copy for a variety of industries, from internet technology and science, to food and nutrition. Her love for content writing stems from an ability to connect with readers, understand their needs, and provide solutions in an honest and easy-to-read manner. In her spare time, you can find Elly on long dog walks, cooking a new recipe, or in the gym.