How Much Does STD Testing Cost Without Insurance in 2022?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), also known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), are communicable diseases passed from person to person through sexual activity, including vaginal, oral, and anal sex. STD testing without insurance can range in cost from $108-$600. Usually, an STD panel will test for multiple STDs.

With Mira, you can sign up, get tested for STDs the same day, and have your results by tomorrow for just $50. Sign up today and get access to virtual and urgent care visits, lab testing, and discounted prescriptions. Sign up today.

The Cost of STD Testing Without Insurance

Below we outline the cost of an STD panel at urgent care centers. 

*These costs are based on averages collected through data in New York City, NY. Most centers and healthcare providers offer a package in which most STDs are tested.

Lab-Based STD Testing

Lab-based STD testing does not require a doctor's visit and allows you to schedule the test and send the results to a lab.

At-Home STD Tests

Additional Costs of STD Tests

When getting an STD test, you will likely incur additional costs on top of the actual STD test.

Different Types of STDs & When to Get Tested

There are multiple types of STIs, so it’s important to understand who is most at risk for each type. This will help you as you determine if you’re potentially at-risk and should be tested. 

Chlamydia and Gonorrhea

National guidelines recommend that you get screened annually if you meet the following risk factors:

• Sexually active women under the age of 25
• Women older than 25 and at risk of STIs (e.g., multiple sexual partners)
• Men who have sex with men (MSM)
• You have HIV
• Forced to engage in intercourse or sexual activity

Chlamydia and Gonorrhea swabs are usually conducted through urine samples or swabs on the inner penis or cervix. Screening for these diseases is essential as their symptoms do not always manifest. Therefore, you may be infected without demonstrating any signs. Both chlamydia and gonorrhea are entirely treatable.

HIV

CDC guidelines recommend that sexually active individuals get tested for HIV at least once per year. People in higher-risk groups, such as gay men, may benefit from getting tested at higher rates. You should be screened for HIV if you meet the following risk factors:

• Men who have sex with men
• Engaged in sexual activity with a person living with HIV
• Had more than one sexual partner since last HIV test
• Have been diagnosed with other STIs
• Have been diagnosed with Hepatitis or Tuberculosis
• Have had sex with anybody who meets the risk mentioned above factors or does not know if they meet the risk factors

HIV tests are conducted through samples of blood or oral fluid. HIV screening is extremely important — especially if you are at high risk. While HIV is a serious disease, its symptoms often do not manifest during the early stages of infection. If left untreated, HIV can turn into AIDS, which is deadly. To avoid these complications, get tested and know your partner's status.

Syphilis

CDC guidelines encourage you to get tested annually for syphilis. People who are sexually active with multiple sexual partners may benefit from more frequent testing. Regardless, if you meet the following risk factors, you should consider getting tested for syphilis:

• Sexually active
• Notice a sore on the genitals
• Have had unprotected sex with somebody with syphilis.

Syphilis tests are usually conducted through quick blood samples or sampling fluid from open sores. If you test positive, know that syphilis is entirely curable.

Herpes

The CDC does not recommend testing for people who are not demonstrating Herpes symptoms. This is because diagnosing sexual herpes in a person who is not demonstrating symptoms has not shown any change in their sexual behavior. Therefore, you should get tested for herpes if you meet the following risk factors:

• Genital symptoms that could be related to herpes
• Have a sex partner with genital herpes
• Want a complete STD exam, especially if you have multiple sex partners

Herpes tests are usually conducted through blood samples. If you test positive and receive medication, herpes can be treated.

The Most Common Sexually Transmitted Diseases

It is crucial to get tested for STDs regularly — especially if you are sexually active. STDs do not always cause symptoms and may be dormant in your body, so having an STD without knowing it is possible. If this is the case, the STD may cause long-term damage to your body if left untreated. 

Outlined below are some of the most common sexually transmitted infections in the United States:

• Bacterial Vaginosis
• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Hepatitis
• Herpes
• HIV/AIDS
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
• Public Lice
• Scabies
• Syphilis
• Trichomoniasis

Each of these STDs is passed differently. Some are carried in bodily fluids such as semen and blood, while others can be passed from skin-to-skin contact. 

Therefore, one of the best ways to treat STIs is to prevent them in the first place. If you are having sex, using protective barriers, such as condoms and dental dams, are among the best safe sex practices to protect you from STD transmission.

What to Do if You Test Positive for an STD

If you test positive for an STD, feeling shame, guilt, and anger is normal. Know that you have done the right thing by getting tested and ensuring you stay healthy. Your next steps are to consider treatment as recommended by your doctor. In addition, you should inform your sexual partners, who also need to be tested and treated if necessary. Below is a sample text you can send to your sexual partners:

“Hey, I wanted to let you know that I recently tested positive for a sexually transmitted infection. Since we were recently together, it is probably best for you to get tested as well. I am happy to assist you with this process, so please let me know if you need any help.”

Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous, there exist several resources that can help you anonymously notify your recent sexual partners. Outlined below are just a few:

• TellYourPartner
• STDCheck
• Health Initiative for Men

The Bottom Line

STD testing with and without insurance can be expensive. With a Mira membership, you can receive an STD panel for just $99. The Mira STD panel includes screenings for four of the most prevalent STDs: Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, HIV, and Syphilis.  Additionally, if one of your results comes back positive, you will be provided with a consultation for treatment.  

Affordability should not be a barrier to STD testing. If you are avoiding STD testing because of high costs, Mira is here to help. Become a member today and get affordable testing with results as quickly as tomorrow.