Chlamydia, syphilis, and gonorrhea are the most widely prevalent, notifiable sexually transmitted infections (STDs) in the USA. As per the CDC, around 75% of females and 50% of males infected with chlamydia don't experience any symptoms. Similarly, syphilis and gonorrhea symptoms are like the flu, so without regular screening, you may never know if you are infected. HIV is another common STD in America that generally spreads silently, and currently, it is manageable and not a curable disease. If timely diagnosed, STIs can be treated completely, which is possible only through STD/HIV screening. Learn more about testing requirements in Allentown, Pennsylvania.
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Pennsylvania is among the worst-affected regions in the USA regarding STD prevalence. Since 2016, the state has reported high rates of three notifiable STDs, sometimes even higher than the national averages. While in 2017, the yearly rise in STDs was 3.5%, Pennsylvania reported a whopping 4.9% spike. A more dramatic increase was observed in the southwestern region, with Washington County reporting the highest rise in STD cases at 35.2%. In Allentown, Pennsylvania, comprehensive and free STD testing services are offered, including treatment opportunities for diagnosed infections with guaranteed confidentiality. Find a clinic near you here.
1608 W Allen St, Allentown, Pennsylvania 18102
1.18 mile
Tel: 6104356776
Today's best offer is: $10 off any order. Discount will be applied automatically.
29 N 9th St, Allentown, Pennsylvania 18101
0.42 mile
Tel: (610) 439-1033
Tel: (610) 439-0502
Appointment Required: No
TB services for city residents only.
245 N 6th St, Allentown, Pennsylvania 18102
0.78 mile
Tel: (610) 437-7760 (ext 4131)
Appointment Required: Yes
Comprehensive HIV Medical Care (Ryan White Care Act-funded program) PrEP for all patients regardless of ability to pay Viral Hepatitis (HBV/HCV) Treatment Financial Assistance Program for Uninsured.
1627 Chew St, 3rd Fl, Allentown, Pennsylvania 18102
1.04 mile
Tel: (610) 969-2400
Tel: (610) 969-2195
Appointment Required: Yes
Please visit the website or call for eligibility requirements. STD testing, HIV PrEP and PEP for patients 18+. Trichomoniasis testing available as part of STD testing services.
2434 Catasauqua Rd, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18018
4.15 mile
Tel: (866) 389-2727
Use our confidential STD symptom checker to get an idea of what STDs/STIs your symptoms align with and what STD tests are recommended to you.
Start Symptom CheckerWhich Method of STD Testing is Suitable for Me?
Every sexually active individual must protect their sexual health. Regular STD testing is the only way to care for your sexual health. However, sometimes it becomes confusing to select the right testing method as there are so many options available. For your convenience, we have gathered information about all available STD testing methods in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Check them out to find out which option is suitable for you.
| Testing Method | Waiting Times | Speed of Results | Positive Consultation |
|---|---|---|---|
Private Testing (Walk-In Clinic) | 10-20 Minutes with No Wait | 24-72 Hours | Free With Positive Result |
At-Home STD Testing | No Wait | 5-11 Days | Free With Positive Result |
Doctor Visit with Insurance | Call for Appointment | 7-10 Days | Co-Pay Required |
Doctor Visit without Insurance | Call for Appointment | 7-10 Days | Out-of-Pocket Cost Required |
Public Clinic | Limited Hours and Long Lines | 7-14 Days | No |
Learn more in our ultimate guide to STD testing.
Although NAATs are well-known for their accuracy and sensitivity in detecting most STDs, it is also subject to certain inconsistencies, especially in the case of herpes infections. In Herpes, outbreaks often result in a relative increase in the patient’s viral load – leading to a timeline that usually has specific peaks at certain intervals instead of a consistent rise in viral load throughout. As such, sensitive tests such as NAATs are still unable to accurately diagnose herpes conditions, especially in cases where the patient has recently become asymptomatic and is currently between outbreaks. Other tests such as culture testing and type-specific virologic tests are often employed instead as a confirmatory diagnosis for the patient’s condition.
A nucleic acid amplification test is a laboratory procedure that professionals often perform to make detecting a particular nucleic acid or gene being targeted easier and more convenient while still ensuring that the sample being collected is relatively minimal. Nucleic acid amplification tests, or NAATs, are usually the mainstay diagnostic test for most STDs due to their ability to detect the presence of pathogenic nucleic acids and genes in the patient sample with utmost accuracy and speed. NAATs depends on their ability to replicate the target RNA and DNA to create numerous copies – resulting in an increased convenience in the detection of the desired molecules instead of trying to either blindly look for one strand in a minuscule sample or collecting a large sample that could make the patient uncomfortable throughout the process. Although NAATs are often preferred for a more conclusive diagnosis of STDs, certain exceptions such as the availability of resources and instances of intermittent viral shedding could make NAATs less desirable than other tests. Fret not, however, as your physician is knowledgeable regarding these instances and would often request the best diagnostic procedure for your instances.
It can be, but it does not necessarily have to be. What many people need to understand is that laboratory tests would most often than not be relatively pricey due to the technology that is being utilized behind these diagnostic techniques. However, opting for specific laboratories that offer more convenient testing procedures and discounted prices for diagnostic tests would help ensure that the price will not be much of an issue in providing you with the conclusive diagnosis of your condition. It might take some independent scanning to find the right testing center for you in the most acceptable price range, but it is not as impossible as many people make it out to be.
It is recommended to get tested for STDs if you have had unprotected sexual contact, multiple sexual partners, or if you are experiencing symptoms associated with STDs. Additionally, regular testing is recommended as part of routine sexual health care, even in the absence of symptoms, especially for individuals who are sexually active.
Depending on the test being performed and the testing physician's targeted diseases, various types of samples can be requested from you. In some instances, a minuscule blood sample of a few milliliters will be collected, some might ask for a urine sample, and others may opt for a genital swab. Again, the sample being collected will depend on the test being conducted and the outcome that is being targeted for this particular procedure.
Test Advisor
Get informed about the different STD testing options and the prices for each test.
How Does it Work?
Most people experience feelings of hesitation when going to get tested for STD, despite knowing they might have contracted one. EasySTD was created to change that.
Visit your nearest lab or clinic, order your home testing kit online, and follow the given instructions from an STD testing provider.
After ordering your STD test, visit the testing center to get tested or take a self sample including urine, cotton swab, or finger prick with the home testing kit and mail it back.
Receive the lab-certified results of your STD test from your test provider via mail or phone within 2 to 3 days. If the test comes positive, consult your doctor immediately.
Help stop the spread of STDs by knowing your status. Get tested today!
