PrEP Visits Include STI Testing
If you're already on PrEP, you're getting tested regularly. PrEP follow-up visits (every 3 months) typically include:
- HIV test (required)
- Kidney function test
- STI screening: gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis
- Hepatitis B and C screening (periodically)
With insurance or through a telehealth PrEP provider, all of this is $0. PrEP is one of the most comprehensive regular health monitoring programs available.
Not on PrEP yet? Starting PrEP through a telehealth PrEP provider gets you a full STI panel as part of the intake process — free. It's one of the fastest ways to get tested and protected simultaneously.
Compare PrEP access options
Telehealth providers, local clinics, state programs, Medicaid, and manufacturer assistance can all be valid routes. Compare cost, lab method, medication options, location, privacy, and follow-up instead of defaulting to one provider.
Compare providers and programs →Where to Get Free STI Testing
1. Local health departments
Most county and city health departments offer free or low-cost STI testing. Testing is confidential, and many locations offer walk-in hours. Find yours at gettested.cdc.gov.
2. Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs)
Over 1,400 FQHCs nationwide provide STI testing on a sliding fee scale based on income. Many patients pay $0. No insurance required, no immigration status questions. Find one at findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov.
3. Planned Parenthood
Planned Parenthood centers offer STI testing regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. Services are confidential and available at hundreds of locations nationally.
4. At-home STI testing kits
Multiple companies offer FDA-cleared at-home STI testing. You collect samples at home and mail them to a lab. Results come in 2–5 days. Some are free through insurance or promotional offers.
5. University health centers
College students can typically get free STI testing through campus health services. Many schools offer walk-in testing during STI awareness events. See our college student PrEP guide.
What Gets Tested and How
| STI | Test Type | Window Period |
|---|---|---|
| HIV | Blood draw or rapid oral swab | 10–33 days (4th gen: 18–45 days) |
| Chlamydia | Urine or swab | 1–5 days |
| Gonorrhea | Urine or swab | 1–14 days |
| Syphilis | Blood draw | 3–6 weeks |
| Hepatitis B | Blood draw | 3–6 weeks |
| Hepatitis C | Blood draw | 2–6 months |
| Herpes (HSV) | Blood draw or swab | 2–12 weeks |