STItest.com logo

STI Testing by Condition – What to Test For and When

If you’re worried about a specific STI, this page can help. We’ve grouped testing options by condition — from HIV and herpes to chlamydia, trichomoniasis, and more. Learn which tests are best for your symptoms or risk, when to take them, and what to expect from the results.

Some infections require a blood sample, others need a swab or urine. Some tests work best a few days after exposure, while others are more accurate after a few weeks. Knowing the difference can help you take action with more confidence.

Scroll through the conditions below or click “Learn More” to view full details and provider recommendations for each one.

HIV Testing

HIV tests check for antibodies, antigens, or viral RNA. Early detection options can identify HIV just 10–14 days after exposure, though most tests are most accurate after 3–4 weeks. At-home kits and lab-based testing are both available, and many providers include HIV in their standard screening panels.

Learn More

Herpes Testing

Herpes testing detects HSV-1 or HSV-2 through blood or swab samples. If you have active symptoms like sores or blisters, a swab test is most accurate. For those without symptoms, a blood test can confirm past exposure. Not all test panels include herpes by default, so check provider details carefully.

Learn More

Syphilis Testing

Syphilis is diagnosed through blood-based antibody testing. It’s often included in 4-panel or 10-panel screens, especially for those at higher risk. Because syphilis can progress through multiple stages, follow-up testing may be required to confirm whether it’s a new or older infection.

Learn More

Chlamydia & Gonorrhea Testing

These two infections are commonly tested together using a urine or swab sample. Both are easy to treat, but often show no symptoms — making routine screening especially important. Most home kits and lab tests include them as standard. Testing is fast, painless, and recommended after new partners.

Learn More

Trichomoniasis Testing

Trichomoniasis, or “trich,” is a parasitic infection often tested with a urine or vaginal swab sample. Many people show no symptoms, but it can cause discomfort or discharge. It’s not included in all panels, so look for providers that offer it directly or as an add-on.

Learn More

Mycoplasma Genitalium Testing

Mycoplasma Genitalium is a lesser-known but increasingly common STI. Testing requires a swab or urine sample and is usually only offered by select providers. It’s recommended for those with persistent symptoms who’ve already tested negative for more common infections.

Learn More

Hepatitis B & C Testing

Hepatitis B and C are liver infections spread through blood and bodily fluids. While not always sexually transmitted, they’re important to test for in high-risk cases. Most providers offer hepatitis screening as part of a full STI panel or as standalone blood tests.

Learn More

HPV Testing

HPV is the most widespread STI in the U.S. Testing is typically recommended for women over 30, often alongside a Pap smear. Some at-home providers offer HPV screening, but lab-based co-testing remains the most comprehensive option. There’s no standard HPV test for men yet.

Learn More