How Do You Know Which STD Test to Get?

There are many types of STDs, which means there are many types of tests. Which one should you order?

Testing depends on factors like your age, risk factors, signs/symptoms, and medical history. However, if you believe you're at risk for one STD, then you could be at risk for others. So, the safest approach is to go with testing that's more comprehensive and inclusive. In other words, get tested for multiple types of STDs.

e7 Health Offers Nationwide STD Testing

We all have a responsibility to get tested not only to protect ourselves but to prevent the spread of disease. STD testing isn't only for people who believe they've been exposed. It should be part of your preventive health care and treatment.

e7 Health offers STD testing and blood titers across the nation. Testing is discreet and private, and you don't need a doctor's order. We have several testing options to fit various needs. Tests are done by collecting a blood or urine sample, and/or an oral swab. Patients typically receive their results within two to three business days.

How Does STD Testing Work?

Here's how the process goes, step by step:

Step 1: Order Your Test Online

Simply select the labs that you'd like to order. We offer a variety of STD tests, including:

• Chlamydia and gonorrhea.
• Herpes type-1.
• Herpes type-2.
• Hepatitis C.
• Trichomonas.
• HIV 1 and 2 (Fourth Generation).
• Hepatitis A.
• Hepatitis B.
• Early Detection Syphilis.

We also offer 8-panel and 10-panel tests, if you're looking for something more robust. These are popular options because the panels are already created for you.

We pride ourselves on making testing accessible. Choose the nearest lab from over 2,700 locations around the country. Once you've paid, you'll receive your lab requisition by email within 24 hours.

Step 2: Go to Your Chosen Lab for Your STD Test

Walk-ins are welcome! If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, our patient services department is available to help. Call 888-362-4321 or email us at patientservices@pwnhealth.com Monday-Friday from 9:00 am-5:30 pm EST.

Step 3: Get Your Results

You should receive your STD test results via email within two to three business days. If there's a positive result, then a provider will call you. If you end up needing treatment, consultations with a provider are available.

What Should You Do After Getting Your Results?

If your STD test results came back negative, this means that no diseases were found in your system. In this case, there's nothing further you need to do (except continue to protect yourself!).

If your test results came back positive for any STD, the next immediate step is to meet with a healthcare provider and find out:

• What the treatment looks like.
• How this might affect your intimate relationship with your partner(s).
• Any additional warning signs to look out for.

Responsible sexual behavior means that you notify anyone you've been intimate with of your test results. Ask your provider how far back this should go. By notifying your partner(s), you help to reduce the chance of the STD spreading along with the chance of reinfection. This is especially important considering that not all STDs have clear signs and symptoms. You can be a carrier and not even know it, and this will only contribute to the spreading of the STD.

Sexual Health Matters

We tend to think that STDs are something that only happens to other people, particularly “bad” people. However, this is nothing but an STD myth. Nobody is immune and sexually transmitted diseases can strike at any time, even after only one sexual encounter. If left untreated, they can lead to more serious issues. For instance, unaddressed STDs lead to a minimum of 24,000 women becoming infertile every year in the US.

Some STDs are curable, while others will need more long-term (and even lifelong) treatment. But by far, the best thing you can do is avoid them in the first place. Abstinence is the only surefire way to 100% prevent the risk of contracting an STD. The next best thing is to always practice safe sex by using protection. In addition, some STDs have vaccines, like HPV. Always keep the line of communication open with your partners so that you can have honest, transparent conversations about your sexual health.

And, importantly, regular STD testing is going to be one of your strongest allies. Order your test today to keep yourself and your partners safe (and encourage them to do the same)!