STD Testing Accuracy: How Accurate Are STD Tests?
If you’re concerned you may have a sexually transmitted disease (STD), getting tested is the first step toward protecting your health. You may be wondering how accurate STD tests really are, especially if you’ve taken one at home or have received mixed results. When performed correctly, STD tests are highly accurate and reliable.
Although at-home tests are available and may seem more convenient, they can vary in accuracy, especially without medical guidance. Testing through a qualified medical provider ensures both precision and support, allowing you to make informed decisions about your health.
Recognizing Common Symptoms
STDs don’t always come with noticeable symptoms, which is why testing is important, even if you feel fine. However, if symptoms do appear, they might include:
- Painful or burning urination
- Unusual vaginal discharge or odor
- Lower abdominal pain
- Pain during sex
- Fever
- Sore or swollen lymph nodes
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or not, early testing is key to diagnosis and treatment.
Types of STD Testing
At-Home STD Testing
Some test kits for HIV, chlamydia, and gonorrhea allow you to collect samples at home and send them to a lab. While convenient, these tests often lack the oversight of a medical provider, which may impact accuracy.
Office STD Testing
In-clinic testing is typically more thorough. Medical professionals can assess your symptoms, perform physical exams, and collect samples through blood tests or swabs. They can also guide you on the next steps if you test positive.
Get STD Testing
At Women’s Care Medical Center, we offer limited, free STD testing for qualifying patients who receive a positive pregnancy test at our center. If your test results are positive for chlamydia or gonorrhea, we also provide treatment to support your recovery and help prevent further complications.
In addition, we partner with local medical doctors to offer on-site, comprehensive STD testing and physical exams once a month. These visits provide an opportunity for broader screening and personalized care in a safe, professional environment.
Reach out to us today to schedule your appointment and take the next step in protecting your health.
Pregnancy Testing
Even if you’ve taken a home pregnancy test, you should verify the results. We provide confidential, no-cost pregnancy testing to help you receive the answers you need.
Ultrasounds
A positive pregnancy test isn’t enough information to make an informed decision. An ultrasound scan can determine how far along you are, the pregnancy’s location, and if it’s viable.
STD Testing
Before making a decision about your unplanned pregnancy, it’s important to know if you have an STD. Take control of your health, get tested today, and receive the peace of mind you deserve!
Pregnancy Testing
Even if you’ve taken a home pregnancy test, you should verify the results. We provide confidential, no-cost pregnancy testing to help you receive the answers you need.
Ultrasounds
A positive pregnancy test isn’t enough information to make an informed decision. An ultrasound scan can determine how far along you are, the pregnancy’s location, and if it’s viable.
STD Testing
Before making a decision about your unplanned pregnancy, it’s important to know if you have an STD. Take control of your health, get tested today, and receive the peace of mind you deserve!
