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The specific tests that are available will vary depending on which company you work with. Some of these testing companies only offer at-home testing kits, of which there are usually between 30 and 50 different options. These kits will typically focus on STD/STI testing, which includes Herpes 1 & 2, chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, hepatitis A, B & C, trichomonas, and HIV.
When going to a lab to have the testing completed there are hundreds of different options available. You will typically be able to find tests in categories such as allergy tests, anemia tests, blood type testing, cancer screening, cardiac & cholesterol testing, diabetes tests, drug testing, heavy metal and other toxins testing, hormone tests, prostate testing, pregnancy or fertility testing, kidney and liver testing, and many others. Taking the time to look through which tests a given company offers is an important first step in deciding which one is right for you.
How are the Tests Performed?
Whether you are taking the tests at home or in a lab the method that they will be performed is going to be the same. Each test will require a sample, which is then analyzed by the lab technicians. Based on that analysis, they will issue a report on the results. The following are the different types of samples that may be needed depending on what tests you are having performed:
Once the lab has the samples to test the results are typically available within 24-48 hours. If you are taking an at-home test it will usually take 2-3 days for the samples to arrive at the lab.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), or Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are something most people don’t like to talk or think about, but they impact millions of Americans each year. Most of these health problems can be treated and cured quite easily with common medications. Others are incurable, but thanks to advancements in treatment options, the symptoms can be managed much better than in the past. Even people with HIV/AIDS today can live for years with minimal symptoms, and in some cases, can actually have their viral load virtually eliminated. No matter what STD you have, or fear you might have, it is important to understand the issue, have information about your situation, and know what steps to take next.
STD’s – A Widespread Issue
If you are worried that you may have been exposed to an STD you might feel scared and isolated. The fact is, however, over 110 million Americans have an STD. In addition, it is estimated that almost half of all Americans will have an STD at some point in their life. This is a massive issue that everyone needs to be aware of and be willing to address directly. On an individual level, that means taking an active role in your own health.
Knowledge is Half the Battle
Whenever fighting any type of adversity, knowledge is going to be a key ally. If you believe you have been exposed to an STD, or you know that you (or a partner) has engaged in risky behavior, you want to learn about your current situation. The best way to do this is by taking an STD test. You can go to your doctor and have them perform a test. Or, if you prefer to save time and money, you can use an at-home STD test. At home STD tests use the same labs that doctor’s offices use, but without having to leave the house. This can help to maintain your privacy, avoid embarrassment, and keep your costs down.
Which STD’s Can You Test for at Home?
Most STDs can be tested for at home. You can either take individual tests if you know exactly what you have been exposed to, or you can take bundled tests that look for all common STDs. The following STDs are commonly available with at-home testing:
A Simple Testing Process
Taking an STD test at home is fast and easy. You start by ordering the test or tests that you need. The testing company will ship you the testing kit that you need. When it arrives you simply have to get the required sample. Depending on what is being tested for there are several different types of samples that may be needed:
Once you have collected the required sample or samples you will seal them up in the container that is included in the kit. Ship it back in the included packaging. The lab will receive your samples and run their tests right away. In most cases, they will have the results of your lab work completed within 2-3 days of you shipping your samples to them.
The testing results will be uploaded to your own private account on the testing companies’ website or app. You can then review the results, learn about what they mean, and much more. In most cases, the company will also offer consultations with nurses, doctors, or other medical professionals so you can get answers to questions you may have. They can often even prescribe you the medication you need to treat any STD that you may have.
Why Testing at Home Makes Sense
Testing at home is a smart choice for just about every situation. This option offers many significant advantages over going into your doctor or a med station to get the tests completed. These advantages include:
Accuracy is Essential
Whenever having any type of lab work performed you need to make sure that the results are reliable. At-home testing kits are sent into some of the most respected labs in the country. In fact, these are often the same labs that your doctors would send samples to if you were having the tests done by them.
Discreet Testing to Maintain Your Privacy
It was mentioned before, but it is worth mentioning again. These tests are always performed with the utmost discretion. They don’t even accept insurance payments in most cases, so there is no way that the results will get back to anyone you don’t want to have. This includes your spouse or significant other. The only people who will ever see your results are those who you choose to share it with. For these reasons, choosing an at-home STD test is a smart move for everyone.