Urgent Care for STD Testing: What You Should Know

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can be a source of anxiety for many people. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms, have been exposed to an infection, or just want routine screening, STD testing is a crucial part of maintaining sexual health. While some people prefer to visit their primary care physician or a specialized clinic, urgent care centers have become a popular and convenient option for STD testing. Knowing when to visit our urgent care in Culver City, what to expect, and how to navigate the process can help you take control of your health with confidence.

 

Why Consider Urgent Care for STD Testing?

STD testing is an essential part of responsible sexual health, but many people hesitate due to concerns about privacy, cost, or convenience. Urgent care clinics provide a solution that is fast, accessible, and often more discreet than scheduling an appointment with a primary care doctor. Here are some reasons why urgent care may be the right choice for STD testing:

1. Convenience and Accessibility

Unlike primary care offices, which often require appointments scheduled days or weeks in advance, our urgent care center operates on an appointment and walk-in basis. Many are open during evenings and weekends, making it easier to fit testing into your schedule.

2. Quick Results and On-Site Testing

Our urgent care center offers same-day or next-day results for common STDs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV. Some rapid screening tests, such as those for HIV, can provide results in under an hour.

3. Confidentiality and Discretion

Seeking STD testing can feel uncomfortable, but urgent care prioritizes patient confidentiality. You don’t need to worry about discussing your concerns with your regular doctor or waiting in a specialized sexual health clinic.

4. Affordable and Insurance-Friendly

Endure Urgent Care accepts insurance, and costs are typically lower for those paying out of pocket than an emergency room visit. Many clinics offer bundled STD testing panels that cover multiple infections at a reduced price.

Also Read: When Is Urgent Care a Great Choice for Cold and Flu Care?

 

When Should You Get Tested for STDs?

Regular STD screening is recommended for sexually active individuals, but there are specific situations where getting tested is particularly important:

• After Unprotected Sex: If you’ve had unprotected intercourse with a new partner, testing can provide peace of mind and ensure early detection of infections.
• If You Experience Symptoms: Symptoms such as burning during urination, unusual discharge, sores, itching, or pain can be signs of an STD.
• After a Partner Tests Positive: If a partner has informed you of a positive test result, you should seek testing—even if you don’t have symptoms.
• Routine Screening: The CDC recommends routine STD testing for individuals with multiple partners, those in non-monogamous relationships, and sexually active individuals under 25.
• Before Entering a New Relationship: Many couples choose to get tested before becoming sexually active together to ensure mutual health and safety.

 

What STDs Can Urgent Care Centers Test For?

Endure Urgent Care in Culver City offers comprehensive STD testing, including:

• Chlamydia and Gonorrhea: These bacterial infections are among the most common STDs and are tested using urine samples or swabs.
• Syphilis: A blood test can detect syphilis, which, if untreated, can cause serious health complications.
• HIV: Many clinics offer both rapid tests (which detect antibodies) and traditional blood tests for HIV screening.
• Herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2): If you have sores, a swab test can confirm the presence of herpes. Blood tests can detect antibodies but are not always recommended for routine screening.
• Hepatitis B and C: Blood tests can detect hepatitis infections, which affect the liver.
• Trichomoniasis: A common but often overlooked infection that can be diagnosed with a swab or urine test.

Also Read: Injured at Work? The Importance of Seeking Timely Urgent Care Treatment

 

What to Expect During Your Visit

The process of getting tested for STDs at an urgent care center is usually straightforward. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Check-In and Initial Consultation

When you arrive, you’ll check in at the front desk, where staff may ask for basic information, insurance details, and your reason for visiting. You don’t need to go into detail—simply stating that you need STD testing is enough.

2. Discussion With a Healthcare Provider

A nurse or doctor will ask about your sexual history and symptoms (if any) to determine which tests are appropriate. This is a judgment-free space, and answering honestly ensures you receive the right tests.

3. Testing Procedures

The method of testing depends on which STDs are being screened for. You may be asked to:

• Provide a urine sample
• Have your blood drawn
• Undergo a physical examination (if you have visible symptoms like sores or warts)
• Have a swab taken from the throat, genitals, or rectum

4. Receiving Results and Next Steps

Some test results, like rapid HIV or trichomoniasis tests, may be available the same day. Others, such as syphilis or gonorrhea tests, might take a few days. If a test comes back positive, the clinic will provide treatment options, prescriptions, or referrals to specialists if needed.

Also Read: Can I Get Medication Refills at Endure Urgent Care?

 

What If You Test Positive?

Receiving a positive STD test result can be overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that most infections are treatable or manageable with medication. Here’s what to do if you test positive:

• Follow the Treatment Plan: Many bacterial STDs (like chlamydia and gonorrhea) can be cured with antibiotics. Viral infections, such as herpes or HIV, require ongoing management but can be controlled with medication.
• Inform Recent Partners: Letting past or current partners know about your diagnosis allows them to get tested and treated if necessary.
• Avoid Sexual Activity Until Treated: Some STDs require a short period of abstinence after treatment to prevent reinfection.
• Schedule Follow-Up Testing: Some infections require re-testing to ensure the treatment was effective.

How Much Does STD Testing at Urgent Care Cost?

Costs can vary depending on location, insurance coverage, and the specific tests needed. Here’s a general breakdown:

• With Insurance: Many insurance plans cover STD testing, though you may still be responsible for a copay.
• Without Insurance: Individual tests can range from $50 to $200, while full STD panels can cost $150 to $400. Some clinics offer sliding-scale fees based on income.

If cost is a concern, free or low-cost testing is available at public health clinics, Planned Parenthood, and community health centers.

 

Conclusion

Endure Urgent Care is a reliable, accessible, and private option for STD testing. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms, concerned about recent exposure, or just prioritizing regular health screenings, our urgent care clinic offers efficient testing with minimal wait times.

Take the initiative to get tested to maintain your well-being. Stop by Endure Urgent Care at your earliest convenience for STD testing in Culver City!