Where Is The Easiest Place To Get Tested For STDs? 4 Resources You Need To Know

5 Spots for STD Testing

Here’s the truth: STD testing is one of the most important things you can do to protect your health and future. STIs (sexually transmitted diseases) are super common, and don’t always show symptoms. Any person who’s been sexually active can get an STI, and even using a condom isn’t 100% effective.¹ Knowing your status is an empowering way to take charge of your sexual health and feel confident. And the great news is that we’ve got great resources for STD testing and treatment if you live in St. Louis or across the river in Illinois.

So where is the easiest place to get tested for STDs? Whether you’re looking for quick results, a no-judgment vibe, need to save some $$$ — here are four locations for testing (and some also offer treatment!).

1. ThriVe Metro East

Coming in at number one is ThriVe Metro East. Although this women’s health center is located across the River in Illinois, we offer world-class care at no cost to patients. . With licensed nurses, care for women by women, and compassionate patient advocates, ThriVe Metro East is an amazing option for no cost STD testing and treatment. .

• Vibe Check: Think of ThriVe Metro East as your no-cost, judgment-free bestie. ThriVe is all about empowering women in their own health to equip you to make their own choices. ThriVe’s atmosphere is clean and vibrant, making it a super relatable and comfortable place to get screened.

Pros:

No-Cost Testing — No cost, no hidden fees. You don’t even need insurance. All of ThriVe’s women’s services are no-cost. 

Testing for Common STDs — ThriVe’s Metro East location offers testing for common STDs including chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, syphilis, HIV, and bacterial vaginosis (BV). Just a quick swab, urine test, or blood sample and you’re well on the way to getting the answers you need.

Low/No Cost Treatment — If you receive a positive result, ThriVe Metro East can often also offer no/low cost treatment at your follow-up appointment. 

24/7 Hotline — You can call anytime, even at 2 a.m. when your brain won’t stop spiraling. Think you could be pregnant? ThriVe is here for that, too.

Discreet & Private — ThriVe prioritizes confidentiality. All services are discreet and judgment free.

Women’s Advocates On-Site — In addition to medical staff, ThriVe’s patient advocates are also available for emotional support and a listening ear.  Whatever your results are, and whatever you’re going through, we’ll be there to help you understand options for next steps.

Cons:

Closed for appointments on Sundays, you can snag a spot during the week. And if you need to talk with a real-live person ASAP, ThriVe’s 24/7 Patient Care Line is always available.

2. City of St. Louis Health Department

Second on the list is the St. Louis Health Department. The Health Department provides city residents and visitors with resources to protect themselves from sexually transmitted diseases. The HealthStop website offers online scheduling, at-home testing options, referrals, and may offer low/no cost treatment options for some STDs.

• Vibe Check: The Health Department offers affordable services for a straightforward, no-frills experience.

Pros:

Low-Cost — Testing is often free, depending on your situation. You’ll need to give them a call to find out more.

Testing for Common STDs — The Health Department offers testing for common STDs including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV.

Online Scheduling and Walk-In Availability — You can schedule online or walk-in, but walk-ins are subject to availability

Central Location— The Health Department might be easy to get to if you’re in the city.

Cons:

Hours Can Be Limited — The Health Department closes on city holidays, weekends, Fridays, and lunch hours

Waiting Room Feels — it’s public, so expect more of a typical clinical setting to wait.

Limited Follow-Up — Because the Health Department is a public organization, you might not get the same level of personal care post-results.

3. Quest Diagnostics

Where is the easiest place to get tested for STDs? Number three on our list is Quest Diagnostics. Quest Diagnostics is a national network of laboratories with access to lots of clinical testing services. 

• Vibe Check: Very clinical but efficient. 

Pros:

Flexible Appointment Times— Quest Diagnostics offers online scheduling, and patients can change or cancel appointments online. Sometimes you can get in the same day, sometimes it’s a bit busier.

Testing Options —

Fast Results — Patients can usually get results within a couple of days.

Multiple Locations — Quest Diagnostics has several locations in the STL area. 

Cons:

Cost— Services aren’t free at Quest Diagnostics. Patients will need insurance or check out self-pay options.

Less Personal —  This testing resource is a lab, not a women’s center, so patients can expect a more clinical experience.

4. LabCorp

LabCorp is a global company that offers comprehensive clinical laboratory services. They offer a range of diagnostic tests, with a large network of labs and patient service centers in the US.

• Vibe Check: Another clinical option that gets the job done. However LabCorp is a lab without that cozy, women’s center environment.

Pros:

Quick Results — similar to Quest, you’ll get test results within a couple of days. Patients can access results in their patient portal.

Multiple Locations — LabCorp has multiple locations around St Louis.

Online Booking — no need to call and talk to anyone (this might be a plus for ladies who prefer less interaction).

Cons:

Cost — LabCorp’s services are offered at a cost. If you’re paying out of pocket, it can add up.

Clinical Atmosphere — LabCorp is a lab/medical setting, not a women’s center with patient advocates. Patients can expect a clinical visit.

Referrals for Treatment — Treatment isn’t offered at no cost after the results. However a physician will contact patients with certain positive results to discuss options and next steps.

Where’s The Best Place For Me To Get Tested?

Where is the easiest place to get tested for STDs? Choosing the right spot for STD testing depends on your vibe, your schedule, and what feels right for you. Your comfort should be #1. Let’s do a quick quiz to help you figure it out:

1. How important is cost to you?

• A: It needs to be no-cost or as close to free as possible.
• B: I can pay a little, but I’d rather keep it low-cost.
• C: I’m okay with paying more if it’s quick and convenient.

2. Do you need results ASAP?

• A: No rush—I just want accurate results.
• B: I’d prefer to know within a couple of days.
• C: I need them back like, yesterday.

3. How private do you want the experience to feel?

• A: Very private—I’d like somewhere discreet and welcoming.
• B: I’m fine with a clinic vibe as long as it’s professional.
• C: Privacy isn’t my main concern; I just want the testing done.

4. How far are you willing to travel?

• A: I’ll go wherever if the care feels supportive and worth it.
• B: I’d prefer something close to the city or near my neighborhood.
• C: I’m looking for a quick in-and-out option nearby.

5. Do you want emotional support while you wait or after getting your results?

• A: Yes, please. I’d feel more comfortable with someone there to talk to.
• B: Not necessarily, but I wouldn’t mind friendly staff.
• C: Nope, I want to handle this solo.

Your Results

• Mostly A’s: You’re all about finding a supportive, no-cost option. ThriVe MetroEast is a great option for you. We offer no-cost testing, flexible scheduling, and a no-judgment vibe with all-women staff. Plus, you get access to emotional support if you need it. We’re able to help whether you’re dealing with a possible STD or unplanned pregnancy.
• Mostly B’s: You want affordability and convenience. The City of St. Louis Health Department is a solid choice with low-cost testing and walk-in availability. Just be prepared for a less private setting. Or, for an affordable convenient option, consider ThriVe Metro East.
• Mostly C’s: You’re looking for fast, clinical efficiency. Quest Diagnostics or LabCorp might be a good fit. They’re professional, quick, and offer online booking, but keep in mind they’re not free.
  

Things to Keep in Mind

Wherever you decide to go, the most important thing is that you’re prioritizing your health. Your future self will thank you. Proud of you for making this move!

Why ThriVe Metro East Stands Out

Still asking, “Where is the easiest place to get tested for STDs?” We’d love to help you get the answers you need with no-cost, confidential care at ThriVe. Worrying about STDs and other women’s health issues can be stressful, but having the option to talk it out with a women’s advocate can really help. If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy, we’ve got your back for that too. And honestly, having that 24/7 hotline is clutch — whether it’s for info or just to talk through your options.  Our goal is to help you feel empowered and equipped to face whatever it is you’re going through.

Wherever you go, just know you’re doing the right thing by taking care of yourself. You’ve got this, ladies. Make your appointment to get started.