STDs are more common than you might think. With over 25 different types of diseases that can be transferred “in the bed”, it behooves one to make testing a regular habit. Even if you think you don’t have an STD, chances are that you might have very mild to no apparent symptoms at all, especially in the case of herpes. Fitting a doctor’s visit in your tight schedule might be a hassle, you might even straight up dread the thought of contracting an STD or even not take the test out of fear of it being a social taboo. Luckily, we have come a long way from typical lab screenings. Nowadays, you can check for STDs from the comfort of your home. Gone are the days when you would have to wait months to get tested after getting involved with a partner or overcome your fears and drag yourself to see a doctor. You can now get tested in total privacy and at home from your living room. Here’s the at home STD test explained.
Getting Started With An STD Test
Img source: southeastmedical.com.au
There are many companies that offer do-it-yourself at home STD test kits like Self Collect. It’s a fairly easy process and it’s highly convenient. First things first, you need to choose a testing lab. You may go about this process by either doing your research or if you would like to remain completely anonymous, then you might want to opt for public forums, like Reddit.
Once you have settled for a testing company, you will need to sign up with them so that they may send you the at home STD test kit. The company will ask you for your details and might ask you to fill up a few forms. Please read everything very carefully to ensure that you and the company are on the same page when it comes to your own privacy, lab results and your general medical information. In some cases, depending on the lab, you might even be able to link your already stored electronic-medical-data to the service, enabling you to go through the initial process with ease.
Once you have paid for your at home STD test kit you will have to wait a few days until it arrives. Some labs might dispatch your testing kit the same day.
The At Home STD test Kit Essentials
Every basic test kit includes these items:
- A test swab
- A tube
- A prick for drawing blood
- Band-aids
- Wipes
- Very thorough instructions
Img source: guyvorce.com
Your kit items may vary as per the lab’s procedures and the tests you signed up for. You can choose to get tested for a wide variety of sexually transmitted diseases. There are multiple “test packs” that you can choose from. For example, a 5-panel test pack may include screening for HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis.
Beginning the STD Test
Testing is very easy. It only takes about 20 minutes for you to finish. It is extremely important that you read the provided manual very carefully, most companies use the same standard-of-operation for testing, but they might vary, so it’s vital that you read every paper material that comes out of your testing kit.
First, using the test swab, rub it against your private parts for about 30 seconds and then place the swab in the test tube or as per the provided instructions.
Img source: STDcheck.com
Second, using the wipes, clean your thumb first then pick up the lancet tool and take off the cap, you will use this to draw blood from your thumb. You will be provided with a card or any material with designated spots, where you will need to press down with your thumb to collect the blood sample. Make sure you have the card nearby before you puncture your thumb.
Finally, put a bandaid on the punctured area and start to pack up. You are almost done. Make sure you have sealed the test tube and placed the blood sample(s) as per the instructions in the manual. You will need to make sure that you have filled all the forms and provided your information as and where needed. Once you have packed up, it’s time to send your test kit back to the lab. Most companies pay for the shipping charges in advance. All you will have to do is send it using the nearest post office. You will receive your test results in a matter of days, either sent to your address or your email inbox. At-home STD test kits are that easy and convenient!
