STI test costs: What you need to know
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a central aspect of sexual health. Regular testing plays a crucial role in detecting infections early and protecting both personal health and the health of partners. But what are the costs associated with an STI test? In this blog, you will find all the essential information about the costs and different ways to get tested for STIs.
Table of Contents
- How much do STI tests cost?
- Where can I get tested for an STI?
- Who is eligible for free STI testing?
- Summary
How much do STI tests cost?
The cost of STI tests can vary significantly depending on the testing method, the scope of the test, and the provider. Generally, the costs can be categorized as follows:
- Individual tests: Tests for common infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhea typically cost up to €50.
- Comprehensive tests: Extensive tests covering multiple STIs, such as HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B, can cost well over €100.
- At-home tests: Individual at-home tests start at approximately €40, while comprehensive test kits can cost up to €200. The "Comprehensive STI Test" from Homed-IQ costs about €149 and screens for up to 11 different sexually transmitted infections. The sample is collected conveniently at home and analyzed in a certified laboratory.
Check with your health insurance provider to see what costs are covered to avoid unnecessary expenses.
Where can I get tested for an STI?
In Germany, there are several options for getting tested for STIs. You can choose from the following:
- General practitioners or specialists: Your general practitioner or a specialist (e.g., urologist, gynecologist, or dermatologist) can perform an STI test. Depending on the suspected STI, the doctor collects blood, urine, or swab samples and sends them to a laboratory.
- Public health offices (Gesundheitsämter): Many public health offices in Germany offer free or low-cost STI tests. These tests are often anonymous and frequently include HIV and other common STIs. However, only about 13% of public health offices test for chlamydia and gonorrhea, so it is advisable to check the available test options in advance (Brisant, 2024).
- Clinics and counseling centers: Specialized clinics, such as dermatology departments or HIV-focused practices, also offer STI tests. Additionally, counseling centers, such as those run by AIDS organizations, provide testing and educational services ( Aidshilfe, 2024).
- At-home STI tests: At-home tests offer a discreet way to get tested without visiting a doctor. You collect the sample yourself (e.g., blood or urine) and send it to a certified laboratory.
If you want to get tested, Homed-IQ offers a reliable option. Homed-IQ's at-home tests are easy to use and analyzed in certified laboratories that meet the highest quality standards. The test kits include various options, from individual tests to comprehensive screenings for multiple common STIs.
Who is eligible for free STI testing?
In Germany, there are several ways to get tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) at little to no cost. Whether a test is free depends on factors such as the testing location, individual circumstances, and health insurance coverage. Here are the most common cases where free STI testing is available:
High-Risk Groups and Special Circumstances
Free STI tests are often available to individuals at higher risk, including:
- People with frequent sexual partners
- Men who have sex with men (MSM)
- Individuals at an increased risk of HIV, such as those who have had unprotected sex
- Women under 25: Eligible for a free annual chlamydia test
- Pregnant women or those receiving prenatal care
Medical Reasons
If a doctor suspects an STI, public health insurance typically covers the cost of the test. Common medical reasons include:
- Symptoms such as pain, burning during urination, unusual discharge, or itching
- Known contact with an infected person (risk exposure)
Testing at Public Health Offices and Counseling Centers
Many public health offices offer free or significantly discounted tests, often conducted anonymously.
Sources: Bundesausschuss, 2009
Summary
STI test costs vary depending on the method and provider, with individual tests costing up to €50 and at-home tests starting at around €40. In Germany, STI tests are often covered by health insurance if there is a medical suspicion of an infection, such as symptoms or known exposure to an infected person. Additionally, many health insurance providers cover routine tests for high-risk groups, such as an annual free chlamydia test for women under 25.
