How Long Does it Take to Get STD Test Results Back from the Doctor?

How Long Does it Take to Get STD Test Results Back from the Doctor?

Since STDs are so different, they require different types of tests to diagnose. Some STDs simply require a simple visual examination to diagnose and others require a urine sample, or alternatively a sample taken from a vaginal swab. Still others like HIV can only be diagnosed with a blood sample test. In the case of blood-work, it can take in the neighborhood of two weeks to deliver definitive results. On “average” a typical STD test might take between one and three days to come back.

Comparing Different Testing Methods

There are more than one way to get tested for STDs. Naturally then, how you choose to get tested can have a big effect on how fast you’ll get your test results back. Here are some of the options available to you:

At-Home Tests: there are plenty of at-home STD tests that promise instant results, but myLAB Box at home STD test kits are FDA approved and lab certified.

The Free Clinic: The free clinic or a Planned Parenthood facility is a good option for some people, because it’s free. However, you will have to pay in other ways, 1- by spending lots of time in line. Because you can’t schedule an appointment at the free clinic like you can at other testing facilities, it could be days before you find an entire afternoon to dedicate to standing in line to receive a test.

1. Test early and test often

First and foremost, it’s important to test often, even if you don’t notice any symptoms. Many STDs produce mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. It’s important to know when to get tested as well. Different infections have different incubation and testing timeframes* that vary from one day to one month. Knowing when to get tested will help with early detection and early treatment.

2. Don’t panic

The vast majority of STDs are curable, and the ones that aren’t are manageable.  Positive results aren’t as scary as they used to be, so don’t panic. STDs are very common. Since there’s now a wealth of information online dispelling the myths surrounding STDs, the social stigma once attached to them is a thing of the past. You’re going to be okay.

3. Get treatment

In the event of a positive result, the experts at myLAB Box will connect you with highly trained and experienced STD counselors. These counselors can provide you with accurate information on available treatments for your infection and how to go about getting that treatment.

4. Inform your partners

It’s crucial that you inform your sexual partners of your results, whether they’re positive or negative. Sharing this information will help stop the spread of the infection and allow your partners to seek testing and treatment immediately.  

Sharing your results has never been easier. You can share a link to your online results. This also makes it convenient to share results with a family physician when seeking treatment after a positive result, or to clear the air with a negative result.  

5. Keep testing

This may sound redundant, but testing often is the best practice for any sexually active adult. The convenience of at home testing makes this easier than ever before. Be a responsible partner.

Stay ahead of the game, stay healthy, and test yourself for the 10 most common STDs today.

Reviewed by Luis Ferdinand M. Papa, MD, MHA

For your reference:

*https://www.mylabbox.com/resources/std-incubation-and-testing-timeframes-guide/