If you haven’t seen the startling figures, nearly 2.3 million cases of STDs were diagnosed in the U.S. in 2017 according to new data from the CDC. These numbers surpass the previous record set in 2016 by more than 200,000 cases, making 2017 the fourth year in a row of rising STD rates. Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis were the top-ranking infections.
STIs and STDs, left untreated, puts individuals at risk for reproductive complications like ectopic pregnancies, stillbirths, and infertility. Other health concerns arise, including an increased risk of HIV, and even death.
Plenty of reasons to get tested, right?
But with hectic schedules—not to mention the discomfort of getting poked and examined—it’s easy to let months go by without a sexual health update. For that reason, many people are turning to take-at-home STI tests. The convenience and privacy of these tests are appealing, but what are the drawbacks?
1. Take-at-Home tests are done by you
Let’s be honest, we’re not all the most competent at reading instructions. Sometimes it’s hard to follow a box of brownie instructions correctly. Many tests claim ease of use, but when the test isn’t completed by a trained professional, so there’s a greater risk for error.
Take-at-home tests are taken in your home instead of a sterile environment. Contamination of other chemicals and germs is always a factor. Tests that require a blood draw at your doctor’s office rely on a few drops of blood from a finger prick–a significantly smaller amount of data available to the lab technician to confirm results. In short, take-at-home tests are not guaranteed accurate. They also take about three weeks to get results.
2. There is no follow-up treatment
So what happens if you test positive for an STI? You still have to go to the doctor for examination and treatment. You may even need to take another STI test to confirm the results of the take-at-home test. While not worth throwing out the window, take-at-home tests only get the ball rolling towards more tests and treatment. It may end up costing you more money in the long run.
3. Take-at-Home tests cost about the same
If take-at-home tests were significantly cheaper than a professionally-done test, it might be worth the risk. But take-at-home tests are competitive with the tests here at Private Testing Center, ranging from $99-$300. That’s a lot of money to risk! But at Private Testing Center, our professionals are trained, our lab times are flexible with minimal wait times, and accurate results come in one to three days. It’s a choice you can feel confident about!
Private Testing Center offers affordable and convenient testing, in a constant effort to prevent the spread of Herpes, HIV and other STDs. Same Day appointments are available and with over 1500 locations nationwide, your closest location is only a short drive away. We understand your privacy is of the utmost importance and we assure confidentiality for every one of our customers.
Call us at 888.249.6716 or Schedule an Appointment today.