Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have been an issue of concern for American authorities for decades because STIs can impact any sexually active individual. Testing is the only way to prevent the spread of the infection, or else you may encounter severe health consequences. If common STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis is left untreated, they can cause infertility. The infection can even spread to your partner. Houston has proven a pioneer in STD testing. From mobile units to citywide free and low-cost testing facilities, there's an option for everyone. Learn more about the best STD testing in Houston.
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In 2019 Texas had the highest new STD diagnosis rates, with 129,000 new chlamydia cases and the highest number of congenital syphilis cases per capita in the country. Harris County became the hotspot for common STDs, reporting over 20,000 chlamydia, 2,800 syphilis, and 8,000 gonorrhea cases, revealed the Texas Department of State Health Services 2017 surveillance data. It is, therefore, essential that Houston residents remain fully aware of their sexual health status. Check out the best STD testing centers in Houston, Texas.
1431 Studemont St, Houston, Texas 77007
0.84 mile
Tel: 2817407989
Today's best offer is: $10 off any order. Discount will be applied automatically.
No eligibility requirements for HIV testing. Please call to verify testing schedule before you make a trip to any Harris Health testing site. Must be diagnosed with HIV to access HIV primary care services.
2015 Thomas St, Houston, Texas 77009
1.53 mile
Tel: (713) 873-4000
Appointment Required: Yes
Sliding fee scale is based on income and household size.
3000 Aldine Mail Rte Rd, Bldg C Ste 200, Houston, Texas 77039
1.66 mile
Tel: (713) 773-0803
Appointment Required: Yes
8504 Schuller St, Houston, Texas 77093
1.66 mile
Tel: (832) 395-9100
Tel: (832) 395-9800
Tel: (832) 393-5427
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.
9101 Hwy 6 N, Houston, Texas 77095
1.66 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 Houston, Texas. 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.
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.
Standard STD testing can detect common sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, and hepatitis B and C. Additional tests may be required for less common STDs or specific situations.
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 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!
