Frequently Asked Questions & Answers

General Questions
Test Result
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If you are sexually active, then you should absolutely get tested at regular intervals. We generally recommend that you get a full panel at least once per year. Although, if you have numerous partners, then you should be getting tested more often.

Why should I get an STD test?

Many STDs show few or zero symptoms early on. This makes it nearly impossible to detect an STD without the help of a certified testing facility. If you are carrying a disease and don’t know it, you could be spreading it to other partners, causing serious health issues for you and your partners. With our comprehensive STD testing, we make it quick, painless, and affordable - there’s really no reason not to.

Why should I choose STD Labs?

STD Labs provides the most comfortable and convenient testing experience. With over 4,000 different locations spread throughout the country, it’s not hard to find a center that’s a short drive away from wherever you are. Once at the testing center, the process is extremely quick and affordable, usually taking just 15 minutes.

You will typically get the results to your test 72 hours after visiting, giving you quick peace of mind if your test is negative. If positive, our doctors are on hand to provide you information and guidance for the next step during a free consultation. At STD Labs, you’re more than just a number. We genuinely care about your well-being and work to help you get healthy.

How does the testing process work?

The testing process goes by faster than you could imagine! There’s no painful procedures or complicated terminology that gets thrown at you. We want you to be comfortable and to get in and out with no fuss. In fact, you don’t even need to undress. The test requires a small blood and/or urine sample, which we then send to our labs to be analyzed and tested. Once the results are in, you’ll be notified and informed about any future steps.

Do I have to prepare for my test?

Some other test providers might require you to fast or to avoid certain foods or drinks for hours before getting tested. We require no preparations of any kind so that you don’t have to worry about doing anything out of the ordinary. As we’ve mentioned before, here at STD Labs we want to make the process comfortable and convenient, and there’s nothing comfortable about not eating for hours!

Where do I get tested?

At a city near you! With over 4,000 different locations spread across the country, we’re confident that you’ll find a testing center within a reasonable drive from wherever you’re situated. If you live in a large city like LA or NYC, you won’t have to worry about going all the way across town, as we typically have several centers.

How is my privacy protected?

While STD testing is essential, many people don’t feel comfortable going to a lab in their local area. At STD Labs, we can assure you that we take extensive measures to keep all of your information confidential. STD Labs complies with all state and federal regulations regarding patient privacy, including HIPAA. Our labs perform a variety of different testing services, so visiting us will not reveal any information about your visit.

In terms of online protection, we use advanced encryption software to protect any information that we store.

How soon will I receive my test results?

The moment you leave our offices, we get to work. Standard test results usually take 72 hours to come back. Our labs work hard to get you answers as quickly as possible while still retaining their accuracy. For certain tests, like the HIV Early Detection, a little more time is needed. When the results are ready, you’ll be able to access them immediately through our secure website. No waiting anxiously for a letter in the mail or a phone call!

What does 'negative' mean?

A negative result means that our testing labs found no trace of any infection in your system. However, this does not mean that you are in the clear forever. We still highly recommend you taking normal precautions during any sexual activity in which you engage and continue to get tested regularly.

What does 'positive' mean?

A positive result means that, unfortunately, our labs found some trace of infection in your system. If this is the case, the first thing you should do is to avoid panicking. You are certainly not alone. Over 19 million people become infected with an STD every year, and medical advancements continue to be made every day to help treat whatever STD you have. By getting tested, you’ve already taken the first step to getting healthy. At STD Labs, we work with physicians in select states to provide free consultations. Our labs’ doctors will help give recommendations and, in some cases, prescribe treatment over the phone. This is a great time to get any of your questions about the disease or about our testing answered and so that you are fully equipped to take on your treatment. If you require a specialist, they may also refer you to one in your area.

What does 'equivocal' mean?

An equivocal result means that the test was neither positive nor negative. This can be the result of several things. For example, if you have just recently contracted an STD, it might not be present enough in your system to elicit a true “positive” result. Alternately, you may have another disease or have a substance in your system that is triggering an equivocal result. If you receive an equivocal result, your best option is to wait a short period of time and then get tested again. This will help to determine what your next major step should be and whether or not you should start treatment. Please do not assume that an equivocal result is negative.

What is the difference between Herpes Type I and Type II?

Herpes has two forms, Simplex I and Simplex 2, which are commonly mistaken for one another. Typically, HSV-1 refers to an oral infection that causes cold sores that have become so associated with Herpes. It is extremely common, infecting somewhere around 100 million different Americans currently, and is very easily spread. Sharing utensils or drinking out of the same cup as somebody with HSV-1 is enough to spread it to you.HSV-2 is considered to be the more serious version of Herpes, and usually appears as genital blisters or ulcers. It’s transmitted sexually. Both types of Herpes are treatable but cannot currently be cured.

What is a reflex test?

A reflex test refers to a process that involves labs taking a sample that was previously tested in order to test it again. This allows us to confirm a diagnosis and provide you with the more accurate results.

Does STD Labs provide affordable testing services?

Absolutely. Our goal at STD Labs is to make STD testing affordable for any individual so that they can maintain their health and prevent any spread of otherwise avoidable diseases. Our most basic testing plan costs just $24.99, which is less than a typical co-pay at a doctor’s office.

What are your cancellation and refund policies?

If you change your mind about getting tested, we will be happy to give you a full refund within 60 days of placing your test order as long as you have not yet visited your local lab. Once you have visited one of our labs, there will be no refunds administered as the process has already been started. While STD testing may be stressful, we want to make the process as clear and easy as possible for you. We hope these questions have helped you make your decision, and if you need any more help don’t hesitate to call us at 1-888-510-3132 or visit our contact page. Take charge of your health and get an STD test today with STD Labs.

FAQ's

Find the answers to all of your questions concerning STDs, getting tested, and more.