You felt a twinge of fear when that symptom showed up. May be it was just irritation. Or you felt burning sensation while peeing.
But then… the “what-ifs” started. And you turned to Google, hoping for reassurance, but instead, every search result 10xed your fears.
A harmless itch suddenly turned into a rare, life-threatening disease.
Stop. Breathe. The internet doesn’t have the answers, only an STD test does.
STDs don’t always come with clear signs. Many people walk around for months, even years, without knowing they’re infected. The only way to know for sure? Get tested.
But how long do STD results really take? Let’s cut through the fear and get you real answers. Here’s everything you need to know.
Why You Shouldn’t Search Your Symptoms Online and Get Tested for STD Instead?
We’ve all been there. One weird symptom, and suddenly Google convinces you that you have the rarest disease on Earth. But when it comes to STDs, self-diagnosing online is a dangerous game.
Here’s why:
Symptoms Can Be Misleading: Many STDs have no symptoms at all, while others mimic common infections. What looks like a harmless rash or mild irritation could be something serious.
Google Can’t Test You: No matter how many articles you read, a search engine won’t confirm whether you’re positive or negative. Only a proper test can.
Makes You Panic: Googling can either send you into a spiral of unnecessary fear or falsely reassure you that you’re fine when you might not be.
So, instead of googling your symptoms, it is better that a professional healthcare provider guides and tests you. Getting an STD testing is quick and way more reliable than Dr. Google.
How Long Does STD Screening Take?
Most STD tests are quick, simple and take only a few minutes. At urgent care clinics, the actual test itself takes 20 minutes and sometimes even faster. Here’s what you can expect:
Urine Test: This is the easiest and most non-invasive option. Just provide a sample, and you’re done in 5-10 minutes. This is often used for chlamydia and gonorrhea testing.
Blood Test: A small sample is drawn (quick pinch, and it’s over). Typically used to detect HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B & C.
Swab Test: A sample is collected using a cotton swab from areas like throat, genital region or rectum. The process takes almost 5 to 10 minutes and not more than that.
Rapid Finger Prick Test: This is mostly used to test for HIV and Syphilis and it is done within seconds.
Fluid Sample Test: If you have an active sore, a doctor may take a sample. And this procedure may only take between 5-15 minutes.
Last but not the least, the doctor may also perform a physical exam where they visually inspect for signs of STDs like genital warts, herpes sores, or syphilis sores.
When Will You Receive Your STD Test Results?
Below is a clear and accurate table outlining when you can expect to receive your STD test results based on different testing methods and STDs.
| Test Type | Detects which STD | Turnaround time |
| Urine Test | Chlamydia, Gonorrhea | 1-3 days |
| Blood Test | HIV, Syphilis, Hepatitis B & C, Herpes | 1-7 days |
| Swab Test | Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, HPV, Herpes | 1-3 days (lab-based) |
| Rapid Finger-Prick Test | HIV, Syphilis | 20–30 minutes (same-day results) |
| Fluid Sample (from sores) | Herpes, Syphilis | 1-3 days (lab based) |
| Physical Exam | Genital Warts, Herpes, Syphilis sores | Immediate (doctor’s assessment) |
| Pap Smear + HPV Test | HPV, Cervical Cancer Risk | 3-7 days |
What Factors Affect the Time It Takes for STD Test Results?
Although now you know the expected turnaround time, but there are several factors that can influence your time of test results.
1. Type of STD Testing or Screening
Different STDs require different tests. Some use urine or swabs, while others need blood work or lab analysis. The complexity of the test impacts processing speed.
2.Testing Method
If your doctor is doing a rapid test, you’ll receive the results within minutes. However, standard lab tests like blood tests or Pap smears may take longer as samples undergo detailed analysis.
3. Lab Processing Time
Lab workload also influences your STD test results turnaround. If you’re getting tested in busy seasons or holidays, the results may take some time.
4. Healthcare Facility
Urgent care clinics often provide faster and reliable test results. On the other hand, hospitals may send samples to external labs which can delay the results.
When Should You Get Tested?
Most people wait for the symptoms to worsen before reaching out to the doctor. Here are a few symptoms that you should watch out and seek help immediately without delaying:
- Blisters, sores or rash on your genitals
- An unusual discharge
- Painful or burning sensation during peeing
- Pain during or after intercourse
- You have a fever (more than 100 F)
- You notice unusual vaginal bleeding (in women)
- Pain in both or one testicle (in men)
Remember that some STDs or STIs are asymptomatic, which means that you’ll experience no symptoms so doctors recommend all sexually active men and women to get tested for STDs or STIs once every year.
Fast, Confidential STD Screening At Family Urgent Care In Chicago And Schererville
If you’re in Indiana or Illinois, our healthcare providers are here to offer fast, confidential, and judgment-free STD testing, diagnosis, and treatment.
Here’s how we support you when you’re not feeling at your best:
STD Testing & Screening: Not sure which tests you need? Our urgent care providers will guide you through the process and ensure you get the right screenings.
Accurate Diagnosis: While waiting for results, our doctors provide expert guidance on next steps. Once your results are in, they ensure you receive a precise diagnosis and a clear treatment plan.
Treatment & Ongoing Care: From prescriptions to preventive advice, our doctors help you manage your health with medication, lifestyle recommendations, and personalized care.
Virtual & In-Person Follow-Ups: Need a check-in? We offer phone and video consultations so you can connect with your doctor without the hassle of traveling to the clinic.
Specialist Referrals: If needed, we’ll connect you with expert specialists for further evaluation or ongoing care.
At Family Urgent Care, we make STD testing quick, stress-free, and supportive because your health and peace of mind matter. Book your appointment today or visit us in person to take control of your well-being!
What To Do After Your Test Results Arrive?
Your next steps may depend on the nature of your test results. If your test results were negative, here’s what you have to do:
Practice Safe Habits: A negative result is great news! But continue using protection and getting regular screenings, especially if you’re sexually active.
Consider Retesting if Needed: Some STDs have a window period, meaning they may not show up immediately after exposure. If you were recently at risk, your doctor may recommend retesting in a few weeks.
Get Vaccinated (If Applicable): Vaccines for HPV and Hepatitis B can help protect against future infections.
Maintain Open Communication: Talk to your partner about safe sex practices and regular testing to stay protected.
What To Do If You Receive Positive Test Results?
Receiving a positive STD result can feel overwhelming and scary! But remember, many STDs are treatable, and others can be effectively managed with the right care.
The most important step is to follow your doctor’s treatment plan and start medication as soon as possible.
To protect others, avoid sexual contact until your doctor confirms it’s safe to resume. Inform your partner(s) so they can get tested and treated, if needed.
Some infections may also require follow-up testing to ensure they’re fully cleared, so be sure to schedule any necessary retests.
Not to mention, if you’re feeling anxious or uncertain, know that support is available. Our healthcare providers are here to guide you, and support groups can offer reassurance during this time.
FAQs
Most STD screenings at urgent care clinics take less than 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll be in and out quickly with no long wait times.
How long do STD test results take to receive?
Results are typically available within 1-3 days, depending on the type of test. Some results, like rapid HIV tests, may be available the same day.
Can I get tested for multiple STDs at once?
Yes! Our STD panels test for multiple infections in one visit, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, and more.
What if I test positive for an STD?
Most people worry when they receive positive results. Don’t worry! Most STDs are manageable and your symptoms can get better with complete treatment.
Do I need an appointment for STD testing?
No, you don’t need an appointment. Walk into any of our four locations in Chicago or Schererville for fast, confidential STD screening. However, scheduling an appointment can help reduce wait times and ensure a quicker check-in.
