4 Benefits Of Home STD Testing

If you’ve had a sexual encounter that has left you nervous about the possibility of having an STD, there is no need to panic. While you might be stressed out and anxious about results.

STD tests are never fun, but they are necessary to make sure we stay healthy and it is always better to know earlier than later. Not taking a test won’t make your STD go away, and for a lot of STDs, cures are available. For STDs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, patients can take antibiotics to get rid of the infections.

If you’re worried about the possible exposure to an STD and want to get tested, here are 4 reasons why you should consider home STD testing over going into a doctor’s office.

1. You don’t have to feel embarrassed

Many times people will not go to the doctor for an STD test because they feel embarrassed. Due to the intimate nature of the test and the questions they might be asked, they feel like their doctor might judge them for their sexual experiences. If you are someone who is worried or embarrassed about what your physician might think (even though you should not, they are here to help you stay healthy!), an at home STD testing kit might be a good option for you. This way, you get to conduct the test yourself, and you do not have to worry about anyone knowing. In the event that your results come back positive, though, you will need to see your doctor to get help with treatment. If it comes back negative, all is well, and no one has to know that you do not want to tell.

2. You can do it with a trusted friend or partner

Let’s face it, a doctor’s office or urgent care center can be uninviting and can make us feel more anxious about the whole situation. Even if you opt to go to a free STD screening site, that might not make you feel comfortable either. If you’re someone who easily gets uncomfortable in a medical setting, you might want to try home STD testing, where you can take the test in your own home, or with a trusted friend or partner. In fact, if your partner is willing, you two can go the test together. This way, you feel a little more calm and supported.

3. Your results are confidential

In the event that your results come back negative, all is well and you do not need to worry about seeking treatment. Simply follow the instructions that come with your kit on proper disposal of the kit and its different components. However, if your results show positive, you will need to see your doctor for a follow-up test to ensure the results are accurate, and they can help you with a treatment. It is rare, but there are times when positive results are actually false-positives, meaning that your test came back positive but you are actually negative and do not have an STD. This is why doctors want to take a second test. For your second test, you can visit a family health clinic, health clinic for women, or any STD testing centers.

In this scenario, your doctor would have to know, but if your results are negative, then no on has to know you even took the test unless you decide to tell them.

4. It is much more convenient

Wait times for a doctor’s visit can be painfully long, and if you have a very demanding job or have a family to take care of, it might be hard to find the time to make an appointment and actually get to the doctor to take the test. Sometimes it can even be a hassle to get your results. Buy doing home STD testing, you can conduct the test when you feel you have enough time, and can get results within just a few minutes.

Home STD testing is a great way to monitor your sexual health, and are usually pretty affordable. You can find these tests at your local pharmacy and can have results in a short time. These tests also ensure more confidentiality, and can be done right beside a trusted friend or partner.