The risks associated with STIs (sexually transmitted infections) are widely known and recognized. Still, people ignore the need to get screened for common STDs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis for several reasons, mainly due to the stigmatic nature of STIs and the fear of social isolation. These factors prevent most sexually active individuals from getting regular STI screening. Don't forget that America has one of the world's highest STD prevalence rates. Every year the CDC reports over 2 million new infections. Testing is crucial to detect STDs timely and prevent their transmission. Learn more about why you get tested for STDs in Erie, Pennsylvania.
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According to the Erie County Department of Health, in 2021, there were 48 cases or all stages of syphilis (primary, secondary, and early latent), marking a considerable spike from 2020, when the county reported 10 cases. However, in a single month in 2022, Erie County reported ten more syphilis cases. Typically, the county's case count is between 0-15 syphilis infections per year. Chlamydia is the next most widely prevalent STD. You can stay safe in Erie, Pennsylvania, by visiting your nearest STD testing facility.
4108 Zuck Road, Erie, Pennsylvania 16506
3.82 mile
Tel: 8148331286
Today's best offer is: $10 off any order. Discount will be applied automatically.
Community Health Net is currently offering a PrEP Clinic twice a month on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month, from the hours of 2pm-4pm. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact the Ryan White Nurse Case Manager at 814- 454-4530 extension 289.
1202 State St, Erie, Pennsylvania 16501
0.61 mile
Tel: (814) 455-7222
Appointment Required: Yes
3104 State St, Erie, Pennsylvania 16508
0.66 mile
Tel: (814) 619-4009
Appointment Required: No
Need to register as a patient. Clients looking for HIV testing only are referred to the Health Department.
2928 Peach St, Erie, Pennsylvania 16508
0.69 mile
Tel: (814) 453-6229
Appointment Required: Yes
1001 State, Ste 606, Erie, Pennsylvania 16501
0.76 mile
Tel: (814) 454-3811
Appointment Required: Yes
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 Erie, 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.
It would vary depending on the condition that is being tested. STDs behave differently due to the varying pathogenicity of each STD’s causative organism. In some instances, you can get accurately tested as early as two weeks following exposure, while some are intermittently inaccurate due to its recurrence (much like in the case of herpes infections). To avoid this, be sure to discuss the intricacies of the test with your physician to understand whether a particular test could provide you with a conclusive diagnosis or if it still needs another confirmatory test to establish its premise.
Similar to what was previously mentioned, herpes infections are known for their recurring tendencies – causing outbreaks now and then and thus causing an intermittent spike in the patient’s viral load for specific instances. In addition to that, other STDs also take time to proliferate and produce a sufficient viral load that could warrant a positive and, more importantly, accurate diagnosis and detection from the tests being administered. As such, detecting an STD a few days following exposure is often complex and unpredictable – leading physicians to follow a certain timeframe instead for testing STDs instead of blindly testing immediately following exposure. Physical exams, however, may supplement inaccurate laboratory diagnoses, especially in cases where the test is prone to false results.
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.
It does vary on a case-to-case basis. Insurance policies are often particular with the instances that they would be covering with their program. Some may cover severe accidents, some may even consider “orphan disease,” and yes, some may also cover the expenses for performing STD diagnostic tests. However, considering that your insurance provider will have to verify the person's identity availing of the program, STD testing laboratories that employ a minimal collection of patient information may not accept insurance policies to prioritize privacy over affordability.
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!
