Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are widespread in every part of the US, but their rates are specifically higher in California. The state is known for its high gonorrhea and syphilis rate; overall, chlamydia is the most commonly reported STI in the country. Most of these infections don't produce any noticeable symptoms. So, the carrier doesn't detect the presence of infection and keeps infecting others through sexual contact, skin-to-skin contact, sharing needles, etc. Getting tested is the ideal way to keep track of your reproductive health. Think about getting screened for STIs if you live in Santa Cruz, California.
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Santa Cruz County's chlamydia rate climbed 12% between 2017 and 2018, while gonorrhea rates fell 4% during the same period. Early syphilis cases declined by 16%. However, both increased from 2019 onwards. Currently, the county's gonorrhea and syphilis rates are higher than the rest of the state. As per the county health department, the disease burden is the highest among young adults. Between 2011 and 2015, the county reported a 104% rise in syphilis and a 122% rise in gonorrhea cases, mirroring the statewide trend. Learn where to find free or low-cost STI testing clinics in Santa Cruz, California.
2203 Mission St, Santa Cruz, California 95060
1.35 mile
Tel: 8312012181
Today's best offer is: $10 off any order. Discount will be applied automatically.
250 Locust St, Santa Cruz, California 95060
0.42 mile
Tel: (831) 427-3500
Appointment Required: Yes
1119 Pacific Ave, Ste 200, Santa Cruz, California 95060
0.67 mile
Tel: (831) 426-5550
Tel: (831) 425-0106
Appointment Required: Yes
2018 Mission St, Santa Cruz, California 95060
1.23 mile
Tel: (831) 706-2220
Appointment Required: Yes
Must register to receive STD testing and treatment services. Health center sends clients to Salud para la Gente for HIV testing services.
1080 Emeline Ave, Bldg D, Santa Cruz, California 95060
1.34 mile
Tel: (831) 454-4100
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 Santa Cruz, California. 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 how other testing procedures behave, false-positive results are still evident even in STD testing. False-positive and even false-negative results are standard instances that showcase the imperfection of the test’s design – a factor that is present everywhere. However, despite certain inconsistencies in laboratory tests as such, physicians commonly use confirmatory tests that would often take another path entirely to arrive at the same conclusion – solidifying the initial test’s diagnosis while still ensuring that the second test is not following the inconsistencies of the first.
Considering that a wide variety of testing kits and laboratory procedures can be performed to determine conclusively whether you have a particular STD or not, the time that it will take for your results to return will also be subject to the same inconsistency. Although there are specific laboratories that could produce your results even by the end of the day (albeit, it is extremely rare for institutions to do so unless necessary), most would often take a few days to a week before the results are either delivered or posted online through your secure personal profile (in the case of online transactions). In addition to that, the capability of the laboratory performing the test may also contribute to the overall timeframe of result delivery – causing delays in cases where there are several requests or understaffed to provide expedited 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.
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.
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!
