STDs have various signs – sometimes none at all. However, if you are worried about being infected or just want to take a test, you can take advantage of various offers – but how much does something like that actually cost?
Doctors are the first point of contact
Of course, doctors are responsible for testing or treating sexually transmitted diseases. Both gynecologists and urologists take care of all matters relating to the sexual organs. But family doctors and dermatologists can also be a first point of contact. If you suspect you have been infected with a sexually transmitted disease, you can be referred to a specialist if necessary.
Prices for a test for sexually transmitted diseases
However, health insurance companies do not always pay for a test. If there is an acute suspicion, they usually pay. However, if you want to take a test without any signs or symptoms, you have to pay for it yourself – and that can be expensive. Because the prices vary depending on the disease and the complexity of the test method.
- gonorrhea: Between ten and 35 euros
- Chlamydia: Covered by health insurance once a year up to the age of 25. The urine test then costs between 40 and 50 euros.
- syphilis: About 10 and 25 euros.
Free test at the health department
Not only doctors but also health authorities, AIDS organizations and certain checkpoints offer tests for sexually transmitted diseases. In many cases, a test at the health department is free or at least cheaper than at a doctor.
However, only a little more than 50 percent of all German health authorities test for syphilis. The number of cases of chlamydia and gonorrhea is even lower. Only around 13 percent of all health authorities test for this.
Which advice and testing centers are nearby? you can find out here!
Home kits: tests for home
There are now numerous offers to easily take a test at home. The advantage: You don’t have to wait for an appointment and you can avoid any possible inhibitions about seeing a doctor.
The tests are sent by post. Depending on which disease you want to be tested for, a rectal and throat swab can be performed at home, as well as a urine and blood sample. The package is then sent back to a laboratory, which evaluates the test and sends the results.
The costs vary and are between 70 and 150 euros.