Getting an STD test can be a nerve-wracking experience, a chore or even an ordeal. But there are a lot of options when it comes to STD testing for men, and a lot of ways to make this process as painless and private as possible.

STD Misconceptions
Though even getting tested can feel like an isolating experience, STDs are quite common. Anyone who is sexually active should get tested regularly. Some sexually transmitted diseases have no distinct symptoms that can be easily identified, while others cause pain and discomfort.

Many people assume that their doctor screens them for STDs regularly, but this is not the case. STD testing must be requested, or the doctor must have some suspicion that an STD is present, before these tests are administered.

STD Testing Options
There are many options for STD testing for men, and no one single option that’s best for everyone.

• Affordable Testing: There are low cost health clinics all over the country that provide safe, anonymous STD testing. Some cities also provide free walk in clinic establishments that offer testing.
• At Home STD Testing: Multiple drugstores and online e-tailers provide testing kits that can be used at home. The most expensive tests screen for the most types of STDs. All at-home kits contain clear directions for taking the test and reading the results.
• Same Day STD Testing: Many clinics providing same-day testing for STDs.

Talking to Your Doctor
If you have a regular doctor, talk to them about getting screened. It’s more affordable to visit your regular doctor than to wind up being treated for an STD at an ER.

An ER visit is a time-consuming, expensive experience. The mean wait time in ERs rose by a quarter from 2003 to 2009, suggesting a tedious trend. In 2009, the mean wait time was up to 58.1 minutes. The average ER visit has a mean cost of $615, a pretty big expense.

Don’t wait until your symptoms become intolerable. Talk to your doctor, and if you need additional treatment they can point you in the right direction. It’s usually best to go first to your regular doctor rather than a specialist. If a specialist is needed, you physician will refer you to someone.

If you know someone who may have questions about STD testing for men or STDs in general, refer them to your doctor. Giving your friend a referral can make it easier for them to obtain an appointment. Primary care physicians are greatly in demand in the U.S. Data estimates show that the country will need 52,000 more primary care physicians by the year 2025 in order to meet rising healthcare needs.

Get Tested
Explore options for STD testing for men, and don’t hesitate to make use of all the resources out there. Get tested for STDs, and get treated before they develop into dangerous problems.