STDs are caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Common STDs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, HIV, and HPV (human papillomavirus) infection. STD testing can help you get diagnosed and treated so you may avoid serious complications.
STD testing refers to several different methods to detect an infection, such as blood tests, vaginal discharge tests, stool test, and laparoscopy. Each type of STD has a different method of detection. Depending on the type of suspected infection, you may get one of the following types of tests:
Blood tests
- Used to diagnose syphilis, HIV, and sometimes herpes
- During the test, a health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial
Urine tests
- Used to diagnose trichomoniasis and sometimes gonorrhea
- During the test, you will provide a sterile sample of urine in a cup as instructed by your provider
Swab tests
- Used to diagnose HPV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and herpes
- During the test, a provider will use a special swab(genital swab) to take a sample from the site of the infection. In women, samples may be taken from the vagina or cervix. In men, samples may be taken from the penis or urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body.
Cervical Swab
Lumbar puncture, also known as a spinal tap
- This is not a frequently used STD test, but it may be ordered if your provider thinks you have an advanced stage of syphilis or if a herpes infection has affected your brain or spinal cord.
- For this test, a provider will inject an anesthetic into your back, so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure.
- Once the area is numb, the provider will insert a thin, hollow needle between two vertebrae in your lower spine. Vertebrae are the small bones that make up your spine. Your provider will then withdraw a small amount of fluid for testing.
You may also be able to check for STDs with an at-home test. Home test kits are available for several STDs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, trichomoniasis, and hepatitis C.
- These tests usually involve using a device (lancet) to prick your finger for a drop of blood, collecting a urine sample, or taking an oral swab. You should discuss your at-home STD test results with your provider to see if you need further testing and/or treatment.
