What happens when I get tested for STDs?

STD testing is quick, easy, and it usually doesn’t hurt. There’s not a single test for all STDs — each STD has its own test. Your doctor can help you figure out which tests you need. STD testing may include:

• A urine test — you just pee into a cup.

• An oral test — you just rub the inside of your mouth or throat with a soft swab.

• A blood test — your nurse or doctor takes blood from your arm or a quick finger prick.

• A physical exam — your nurse or doctor looks at your genital area to check for warts, sores, rashes, irritation, or discharge.

• A blister or sore swab — your nurse or doctor takes a sample of fluid from any sores or blisters you have with a swab.

• A genital swab — your nurse or doctor will gently take discharge or cell samples from your anus, vagina, or penis.  

You can get tested for most STDs whether or not you have any symptoms. Some STDs look and act alike, so you might be tested for a few different infections.

Your doctor may be able to tell right away if you have an STD. But some tests take a few days or weeks to come back from a lab. Many clinics can do rapid testing for HIV — you’ll get your result in about 20 minutes.

If you don’t hear back from your doctor after your STD test, don’t assume everything’s okay. Call them to find out for sure what your results are.