What are the tests for different STIs?

Testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be relatively quick and easy. Some tests can be done with a urine sample or a swab of the infected area. Others may require a blood draw--sometimes with a needle, sometimes with a finderprick.

The table below provides a quick and easy guide to the types of tests used to diagnose the most common STIs.

STI	Type of test	Notes
Chlamydia	Swab of genital area or unrine sample*	The most accurate tests are called "NAATS" (rhymes with bats). In some cases, it's possible to test for both clamydia and gonorrhea from one sample.
Gonorrhea	Swab of genital area or urine sample*
HIV	Blood test or swab from inside of mouth	Confidential and anonymous testing options are available in many clinics.
Genital herpes (if no symptoms are present)	Blood test (drawn from arm or a fingerstick)	Becuase there are many inaccurate tests, be sure your test is "gG-based and type-specific."
Genital herpes (when genital symptoms are present)	Swab of affected area	Must be done as soon as possible; "viral culture test not accurate after 48 hours. A negative culture does not mean that you do not have genital herpes.
Syphilis	Blood test or sample taken from a sore and examined under a special microscope	The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends all pregnant women be tested for syphilis.
Trichomoniasis	Swab of infected area, physical exam, or sample of discharge	Trichomoniasis (or "trich," pronounced "trick") is harder to detect in men than in women.
HPV (genital warts)	Visual diagnosis	Warts can occur in both men and women. Therapy to remove warts is available.
HPV (cervical infection)	If Pap test result is atypical or abnormal, HPV DNA test and a biopsy may be performed	Pap tests detect cervical cell changes, not HPV. An abnormal test is often cause by HPV infection. No test is available for men for these types of HPV.

*If you have had oral or anal sex, let your healthcare provider know this also. These sites may be infected, but vaginal or urine samples may not be positive.

Where can I go to get tested?

You can always start with your healthcare provider. If you need some tips for talking to your healthcare provider about testing, visit the patients page.

If you don't have a regular healthcare provider, or simply would like to find other testing options in your area, you can search for local testing information online, provided by the CDC. You can also call 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636) to find a clinic near you.