STD Testing in Boston, MA
Boston, MA, like many cities or towns in Massachusetts, is monitoring a significant but often overlooked public health issue—sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Just like in other parts of Massachusetts, the rates of infections of syphilis, gonorrhea, HIV and chlamydia in Boston, MA need to be watched. According to the CDC's most recent STD Surveillance Report in 2022, individuals aged 20-24 remain the most affected group across the country. Boston, MA, with its young population and close proximity to nearby universities such as the Harvard University, with 49,000 students, and Boston University, with 44,000 students, is not immune to these infections.
In 2022 alone, Suffolk County, Massachusetts' population of approximately 768,425, reported nearly 2,761 cases of gonorrhea and over 6,767 cases of chlamydia, ranking 1st and 1st respectively in the state. This reflects a growing need for prevention, education, and accessible testing. Suffolk County also reported 115 new cases of HIV in 2022, with a rate of 17.0 per 100,000.
Fortunately, residents of Boston, MA have access nearby to a variety of low-cost or affordable STD testing options and information provided by local clinics and the Massachusetts Department of Health. You can reach out to BAGLY Incorporated at 28 Court Sq or North End Waterfront Health at 332 Hanover St, and learn more about their testing capabilities and costs. Early detection through regular testing is key to managing and preventing the spread of these infections.
For those who test positive, timely treatment can often cure infections like syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. For others, like herpes or HIV, effective treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Addressing this issue through awareness and healthcare access remains essential for safeguarding the health of Boston's residents.
STD Testing Locations in Boston, MA
BAGLY Incorporated
Open Saturdays
North End Waterfront Health
Open Saturdays
Massachusetts General Hospital (Division of Infectious Diseases)
Fenway Health (South End)
Binx Health
Victory Programs Incorporated
East Boston Neighborhood Health Center
East Boston Neighborhood Health Center
BAGLY Incorporated
- Hepatitis C Test
- Gonorrhea Test
- Syphilis Test
- Chlamydia Test
- Conventional HIV Test
- 28 Court Sq, Ste 1 Boston, MA 02108 US
- (617) 227-4313
- https://www.bagly.org
- Monday: 9:00pm-7:00pm
- Tuesday: 9:00pm-7:00pm
- Wednesday: 9:00pm-9:00pm
- Thursday: 9:00pm-7:00pm
- Friday: 9:00pm-7:00pm
North End Waterfront Health
- Gonorrhea Test
- Syphilis Test
- Chlamydia Test
- Conventional HIV Test
- 332 Hanover St, Boston, MA 02113 US
- (617) 643-8000
- https://newhealthcenter.org
- Monday: 8:00am-5:30pm
- Tuesday: 8:00am-8:00pm
- Wednesday: 8:00am-5:30pm
- Thursday: 8:00am-8:00pm
- Friday: 8:00am-5:30pm
- Saturday: 8:00am-12:00pm
Massachusetts General Hospital (Division of Infectious Diseases)
- Hepatitis C Test
- Hepatitis B Test
- Gonorrhea Test
- Syphilis Test
- Herpes Test
- Chlamydia Test
- Conventional HIV Test
- 55 Fruit St, MGH Cox 5 Boston, MA 02115 US
- (617) 726-2748
- https://www.massgeneral.org/medicine/infectious-diseases/treatments-and-programs/sexual-health-program
- Monday: 9:00am-7:00pm
- Tuesday: 8:00am-5:00pm
- Wednesday: 8:00am-4:00pm
- Thursday: 8:00am-7:00pm
- Friday: 9:00am-4:00pm
- Saturday: 8:30am-11:30am
Fenway Health (South End)
- Hepatitis C Rapid Test
- Hepatitis B Test
- Gonorrhea Test
- Syphilis Test
- Chlamydia Test
- Conventional HIV Test
- 142 Berkeley St, Boston, MA 02215 US
- (617) 247-7555
- https://fenwayhealth.org/
- Monday: 8:00am-7:00pm
- Tuesday: 8:00am-7:00pm
- Wednesday: 8:00am-7:00pm
- Thursday: 8:00am-7:00pm
- Friday: 8:00am-5:00pm
Binx Health
- Hepatitis C Test
- Gonorrhea Test
- Syphilis Test
- Herpes Test
- Chlamydia Test
- Conventional HIV Test
- 245 First St, 18 FL Cambridge, MA 02142 US
- (844) 692-4691
- https://app.mybinxhealth.com/
Victory Programs Incorporated
- Hepatitis C Test
- Gonorrhea Test
- Syphilis Test
- Chlamydia Test
- Conventional HIV Test
- 29 Stanhope St, Boston, MA 02116 US
- (617) 927-0836
- https://www.vpi.org/mpt-services/
- Monday: 9:00am-3:30pm
- Tuesday: 9:00am-3:30pm
- Wednesday: 9:00am-3:30pm
- Thursday: 9:00am-3:30pm
- Friday: 9:00am-3:30pm
East Boston Neighborhood Health Center
- Gonorrhea Test
- Syphilis Test
- Chlamydia Test
- Rapid HIV Test
- 20 Maverick Sq, East Boston, MA 02128 US
- (617) 568-4800
- https://www.ebnhc.org
- Monday: 8:00am-5:00pm
- Tuesday: 8:00am-5:00pm
- Wednesday: 8:00am-5:00pm
- Thursday: 8:00am-5:00pm
- Friday: 8:00am-5:00pm
East Boston Neighborhood Health Center
- Hepatitis C Test
- Gonorrhea Test
- Syphilis Test
- Chlamydia Test
- Conventional HIV Test
- 79 Paris St, 1st Fl East Boston, MA 02128 US
- (617) 568-4490
- https://www.ebnhc.org
- Monday: 9:00am-5:00pm
- Tuesday: 9:00am-5:00pm
- Wednesday: 9:00am-5:00pm
- Thursday: 9:00am-5:00pm
- Friday: 9:00am-5:00pm
STD Testing Options in Boston, Massachusetts
In Boston , there are several ways to get tested for STDs, each with varying levels of convenience, cost, and confidentiality. Here's an overview of options near you:
Private STD Clinic:
Visiting a private clinic is a discreet and dependable method for STD testing in Boston. These clinics often require no appointment, offer a broad range of test panels, and provide fast results, usually within 1 to 2 days. With over 6,000 locations nationwide, they are highly accessible. Most importantly, your privacy is strictly protected—personal health information is kept confidential, and communication is handled securely.
Local Clinics:
There are also public and community clinics in Boston that provide low-cost or free STD testing services. These clinics are great for affordability, though they might require appointments and have longer result turnaround times. While these clinics are committed to patient confidentiality, it’s a good idea to ask about their specific privacy policies and data handling practices to ensure you’re comfortable with how your information will be managed.
At-Home STD Testing:
At-home STD testing kits offer a high level of privacy and convenience. You can purchase them online or at local pharmacies in Boston, collect your sample privately at home, and send it to a certified lab for analysis. Depending on the company, results are typically available within a few days to 10 days. These services are designed with discreet packaging and secure online portals for results, ensuring that your personal health information remains confidential throughout the process.offers a convenient and private way to conduct your std tests.
What Are My 3 STD Testing Options?
Private STD Testing
- Available at over 4,500 nationwide labs (e.g., LabCorp, Quest)
- FDA-approved tests, no appointment required
- Results in 1–2 business days
- Full privacy and confidentiality guaranteed
- Doctor follow-up and prescriptions if needed
At-Home STD Testing
- Test yourself privately at home
- Available online or at pharmacies
- Results in 2–5 days
- Risk of user error and delayed treatment
- Doctor consultation may not be included
Local STD Testing Clinics
- Offered at Planned Parenthood, clinics, and health centers
- Walk-in or by appointment
- May offer free or low-cost options (income-based)
- Results may take 7+ days
- Privacy may be limited in shared waiting rooms
- Fewer test options available
STDTest.com vs Other Clinics
STDTest.com | Walk-In Clinics | |
Appointment: | Not Required | Often Required |
Results: | 1–2 Days | 3–7 Days |
Confidential Billing: | ||
Confidential Billing: | Included | Not Always Available |
Pricing: | From $24 | Varies / income-based |
Locations: | 4,500+ Labs | Limited |
Looking for fast, affordable STD testing near you?
Get detailed info on same-day testing, pricing, and lab locations through our trusted partner.
At-Home STD Testing Kits
You can opt for an at-home STD test kit as they provide a convenient and private method to screen for sexually transmitted infections without the need to visit a clinic. These kits are perfect for individuals who prefer managing their health from the comfort of their home.
How It Works:
Select Your Kit
Pick a kit either online or at a Boston, MA store depending on the infections you wish to screen for. Some kits target infections such as syphilis while others offer a wider panel, for testing multiple STIs.
Collect Your Sample
Follow the instructions to collect a sample – this could involve providing urine, a finger-prick blood sample, or using a swab on the genitals, throat, or rectum.
Send It In
Use the prepaid envelope to send your sample to the lab.
Receive Results
Get your results within a few days through a secure online portal, phone, or app.
Next Steps
After receiving a test result various services are available to provide assistance, such as consultations with healthcare experts, treatment choices or recommendations for care. It is advisable to schedule a follow up appointment with your primary healthcare provider for further consultation and guidance.
Why Choose At-Home Testing Kits:
Privacy
Test at home without visiting a clinic.
Convenience
No need for appointments or travel.
Things to Consider:
Panel Size
Ensure the kit covers all the STIs you want to test for.
Speed
Taking the test(s) and mail time may delay results vs. clinic options.
STD Statistics and Trends in Boston
How Boston STD Rates Compare to Other States
STD | State Rank | New Cases | Rate per 100,000 | US Avg Rate per 100,000 |
---|---|---|---|---|
Chlamydia | th | 0 | 495 | |
Gonorrhea | th | 0 | 194.4 | |
Syphilis | th | 0 | 17.7 | |
Congenital syphilis | th | 0 | 102.5 | |
HIV | th | 0 | 11.30 |
What STDs Can You Get Tested For?
Knowing which STD tests are necessary is important for your well-being. Viral infections are chronic and can be managed with available medications and therapies. Bacterial infections may require retesting to ensure that treatments have been effective as expected.
STD | Type of Infection | How It’s Tested | When to Restest |
Oral Herpes | Viral | Swab of a sore, culture, or blood test | N/A (lifelong infection) |
Genital Herpes | Viral | Swab of a sore, culture, or blood test | N/A (lifelong infection) |
HIV | Viral | Blood test | N/A (lifelong infection) |
Gonorrhea | Bacterial | Blood, swab, or urine tests | 3 Months post treatment |
Chlamydia | Bacterial | Blood, swab, or urine tests | 2 Months post treatment |
Syphilis | Bacterial | Blood tests | 3 Months post treatment |
Hepatitis A | Viral | Blood test | N/A (lifelong infection) |
Hepatitis B | Viral | Blood test | N/A (lifelong infection) |
Hepatitis C | Viral | Blood test | N/A (lifelong infection) |
Trichomoniasis | Parasitic | Urine test | 2 Weeks post treatment |
Frequently Asked Questions about STDs
How do I know if I have an STD?
If you’ve been sexually active, it’s important for your sexual health to know if you have an STD. You may experience some of the more common symptoms if you have an infection:
- Unusual discharge from the penis or vagina.
- Pain or a burning sensation during urination or sex.
- Sores, bumps, or rashes in the genital area, mouth, or anus.
- Persistent itching in the genital area.
- Swelling or redness in the genital area.
It’s critical to know that many STDs can be asymptomatic, with some diseases up to 80% being undetected per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO). To avoid worsening symptoms or infecting partners, get tested for confirmation. Positive test results are really the only true way of determining an infection. Regular testing is crucial, especially if you have multiple partners or are engaging in unprotected sex.
When should you test for STDs?
STD | Incubation Period After Exposure |
---|---|
Oral Herpes | 2–12 days |
Genital Herpes | 2–12 days |
HIV | 2–4 weeks |
Gonorrhea | 2-7 days |
Chlamydia | 7–21 days |
Syphilis | 10 – 90 days |
Hepatitis A | 15–50 days |
Hepatitis B | 4–25 weeks |
Hepatitis C | 2 weeks – 6 months |
Trichomoniasis (Trich) | 5–28 days |
What do STD test panels test for?
The most comprehensive 10-test panel will provide a confirmation of infection status across different bacterial or viral diseases, including HIV type 1 & type 2 antibody/antigen (4th gen), herpes type 1 & type 2, hepatitis A, hepatitis B & hepatitis C, chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis.
How much do STD tests cost in Boston, MA?
STD testing costs can vary widely in Boston, MA based on the type of test(s) you purchase, speed of results and appointment times, and location.
Private STD testing offers walk-in appointments, comprehensive test panels and fast results. You can expect to pay no more than $250 to get a 10-test panel in Boston, MA. Results are delivered quickly, within 1-2 days.
At-home testing is also an option, with popular online manufacturers offering test panels for up to $350. The primary benefit of this option is testing in the convenience of your own home. Simple blood tests, urine samples or swaps are taken and mailed back to the lab. Results are typically available in 7-10+ days.
Local low-cost or potentially free clinics also are available. However, these locations may require appointments, may not test for all STDs and are not as immediate as private testing.
Can you get same-day STD tests in Boston, MA?
Yes! Private testing offers same-day, no appointment necessary STI testing in Boston, MA. Once you purchase your selected tests (no doctor script required), you can just walk into the private lab with your order.
How fast do you get STD test results in Boston, MA?
STD test result times will vary based on the type of test. Private STD testing in Boston, MA will deliver results within 1-2 days. At-home test results could be 7+ days, and local clinics will vary based on a number of factors.
Are appointments needed for STD testing in Boston, MA?
If you choose private STD testing as your preferred option, you don’t need an appointment to get your testing done. Just purchase the order and walk into one of the 5,000+ CLIA-Certified labs across the United States.
Local STD clinics may require appointments and should be checked on a case-by-case basis. At-home tests are also an option. Both will likely take longer to test and receive your results.ear
Sources
- CDC – Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
- CDC, 2022 STI Surveillance Report – Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- WHO – Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- WebMD – Oral Herpes: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment
- National Institutes of Health – The Stages of HIV Infection
- Medscape – Gonorrhea Clinical Presentation
- Iowa.gov – Chlamydia
- Minnesota Department of Health – Hepatitis
STD Testing in Cities Near Boston, MA
East Boston, MA1 miles
Chelsea, MA3 miles
Cambridge, MA3 miles
Somerville, MA3 miles
Everett, MA3 miles
Roxbury, MA4 miles
Brookline, MA4 miles
Allston, MA4 miles
Dorchester, MA4 miles
Revere, MA4 miles
Malden, MA5 miles
Jamaica Plain, MA5 miles
Medford, MA5 miles
North Quincy, MA6 miles
Mattapan, MA6 miles
Watertown, MA6 miles
Newton, MA7 miles
Arlington, MA7 miles
Melrose, MA7 miles
Quincy, MA8 miles
Stoneham, MA8 miles
Milton, MA8 miles
Saugus, MA8 miles
Waltham, MA9 miles
Lynn, MA9 miles
Wakefield, MA10 miles
Dedham, MA10 miles
Hull, MA11 miles
Braintree Town, MA11 miles
Braintree, MA11 miles
Swampscott, MA11 miles
Weymouth, MA12 miles
Wellesley, MA12 miles
Westwood, MA12 miles
Lynnfield, MA12 miles
Burlington, MA12 miles
Reading, MA12 miles
Weston, MA12 miles
Needham, MA13 miles
Canton, MA13 miles
Randolph, MA13 miles
Peabody, MA13 miles
Salem, MA14 miles
Norwood, MA14 miles
Bedford, MA14 miles
Marblehead, MA15 miles
Holbrook, MA15 miles
Wayland, MA15 miles
Natick, MA16 miles
Danvers, MA16 miles
Concord, MA16 miles
Billerica, MA16 miles
Middleton, MA16 miles
Beverly, MA16 miles
Stoughton, MA17 miles
Rockland, MA17 miles
Abington, MA18 miles
Sudbury, MA18 miles
Norwell, MA19 miles
Framingham, MA19 miles
Brockton, MA19 miles
Tewksbury, MA19 miles
Hanover, MA19 miles
Whitman, MA20 miles
Acton, MA21 miles
Belmont, MA21 miles
Lexington, MA21 miles
Maynard, MA21 miles
Holliston, MA22 miles
Ashland, MA22 miles
Norfolk, MA22 miles
Chelmsford, MA23 miles
Lowell, MA23 miles
Medway, MA24 miles
Easton, MA24 miles
Pembroke, MA24 miles
Westford, MA25 miles
Lawrence, MA25 miles
Dracut, MA25 miles
Marlborough, MA25 miles
Mansfield, MA25 miles
Franklin, MA26 miles
Franklin Town, MA26 miles
Hudson, MA26 miles
Littleton, MA26 miles
Methuen, MA27 miles
Gloucester, MA27 miles
Bridgewater, MA27 miles
Milford, MA28 miles
Norton, MA28 miles
Tyngsborough, MA29 miles
Haverhill, MA29 miles
Raynham, MA29 miles
Pelham, NH29 miles
Salem, NH30 miles
North Attleborough, MA31 miles
Attleboro, MA31 miles
Taunton, MA31 miles
Middleborough, MA32 miles
Newburyport, MA32 miles
Windham, NH33 miles
Grafton, MA34 miles
Shrewsbury, MA34 miles
Woonsocket, RI34 miles
Blackstone, MA34 miles
Cumberland, RI34 miles
Plymouth, MA34 miles
Amesbury, MA35 miles
Amesbury Town, MA35 miles
Nashua, NH35 miles
Carver, MA36 miles
Valley Falls, RI36 miles
Lakeville, MA36 miles
Uxbridge, MA36 miles
Rehoboth, MA36 miles
Central Falls, RI37 miles
Lincoln, RI37 miles
Leominster, MA38 miles
Pawtucket, RI38 miles
Millbury, MA38 miles
Seekonk, MA38 miles
Derry, NH38 miles
Worcester, MA39 miles
Londonderry, NH39 miles
Sutton, MA39 miles
Smithfield, RI39 miles
Holden, MA40 miles
East Providence, RI41 miles
Fitchburg, MA41 miles
Providence, RI41 miles
Merrimack, NH41 miles
Auburn, MA41 miles
Hampton, NH42 miles
Dartmouth, MA42 miles
Swansea, MA42 miles
Pascoag, RI43 miles
Exeter, NH43 miles
Johnston, RI44 miles
Leicester, MA44 miles
Somerset, MA44 miles
Cranston, RI45 miles
Barrington, RI45 miles
Milford, NH45 miles
Wareham, MA45 miles
Warren, RI45 miles
Acushnet, MA45 miles
Fall River, MA46 miles
Amherst, NH46 miles
Bedford, NH47 miles
Webster, MA47 miles
Raymond, NH47 miles
Greenland, NH48 miles
Manchester, NH48 miles
Bristol, RI48 miles
Thompson, CT49 miles
Charlton, MA49 miles
Dudley, MA50 miles
Provincetown, MA50 miles
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