STD Testing in Watsonville, CA
Watsonville, CA, like many cities or towns in California, is monitoring a significant but often overlooked public health issue—sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Just like in other parts of California, the rates of infections of syphilis, gonorrhea, HIV and chlamydia in Watsonville, CA 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. Watsonville, CA, with its young population and close proximity to nearby universities such as the University of California-Los Angeles, with 69,000 students, and University of Southern California, with 63,000 students, is not immune to these infections.
In 2022 alone, Santa Cruz County, California's population of approximately 49,158, reported nearly 240 cases of gonorrhea and over 1,012 cases of chlamydia, ranking 28th and 25th respectively in the state. This reflects a growing need for prevention, education, and accessible testing. Santa Cruz County also reported 19 new cases of HIV in 2022, with a rate of 8.2 per 100,000.
Fortunately, residents of Watsonville, CA have access nearby to a variety of low-cost or affordable STD testing options and information provided by local clinics and the California Department of Health. You can reach out to Salud Para La Gente at 204 E Beach St or Clinica de Salud del Valle de Salinas (Pajaro Clinic) at 29-A Bishop Rd, 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 Watsonville's residents.
STD Testing Locations in Watsonville, CA
Open Saturdays
Salud Para La Gente
Open Saturdays
Clinica de Salud del Valle de Salinas (Pajaro Clinic)
Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency (Watsonville Health Center)
Planned Parenthood Mar Monte (Watsonville Health Center)
Open Saturdays
Quest Diagnostics - Freedom
Labcorp - Freedom
Salud Para La Gente (Clinica del Valle del Pajaro)
Open Saturdays
Clinica de Salud del Valle de Salinas (Castroville Medical Clinic)
Salud Para La Gente
- Hepatitis C Test
- Hepatitis B Test
- Gonorrhea Test
- Syphilis Test
- Herpes Test
- Chlamydia Test
- Conventional HIV Test
- 204 E Beach St, Watsonville, CA 95076 US
- (831) 728-0222
- https://splg.org/
- Monday: 8:00am-7:00pm
- Tuesday: 8:00am-7:00pm
- Wednesday: 8:00am-7:00pm
- Thursday: 8:00am-7:00pm
- Friday: 8:00am-7:00pm
- Saturday: 8:00am-5:00pm
- Sunday: 8:30am-12:30pm
Clinica de Salud del Valle de Salinas (Pajaro Clinic)
- Gonorrhea Test
- Syphilis Test
- Chlamydia Test
- Conventional HIV Test
- 29-A Bishop Rd, Pajaro, CA 95076 US
- (831) 728-2505
- https://www.csvs.org/PajaroCAClinic.htm
- Monday: 8:00am-5:00pm
- Tuesday: 8:00am-9:00pm
- Wednesday: 8:00am-5:00pm
- Thursday: 8:00am-9:00pm
- Friday: 8:00am-5:00pm
- Saturday: 8:00am-5:00pm
Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency (Watsonville Health Center)
- Gonorrhea Test
- Syphilis Test
- Chlamydia Test
- Conventional HIV Test
- 1430 Freedom Blvd, Ste A Watsonville, CA 95076 US
- (831) 763-8400
- http://www.santacruzhealth.org/
- Monday: 7:30am-7:30pm
- Tuesday: 7:30am-7:30pm
- Wednesday: 7:30am-7:30pm
- Thursday: 7:30am-7:30pm
- Friday: 7:30am-5:00pm
Planned Parenthood Mar Monte (Watsonville Health Center)
- Gonorrhea Test
- Syphilis Test
- Herpes Test
- Chlamydia Test
- Rapid HIV Test
- Conventional HIV Test
- 398 S Green Valley Rd, Watsonville, CA 95076 US
- (831) 724-7525
- https://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-center/california/watsonville/95076/watsonville-health-center-2229-90130
- Monday: 8:00am-8:00pm
- Tuesday: 8:00am-8:00pm
- Wednesday: 8:00am-8:00pm
- Thursday: 8:00am-8:00pm
- Friday: 8:00am-8:00pm
Quest Diagnostics - Freedom
- Chlamydia Test
- Syphilis Test
- Gonorrhea Test
- Hepatitis A Test
- Hepatitis B Test
- Hepatitis C Test
- Herpes Test
- HIV Test
- HIV Early Detection Test
- Trichomoniasis Test
- 202 Green Valley Rd, Ste A, Freedom, CA 95019
- Monday: 7:00am-4:00pm
- Tuesday: 7:00am-4:00pm
- Wednesday: 7:00am-4:00pm
- Thursday: 7:00am-4:00pm
- Friday: 7:00am-4:00pm
- Saturday: 8:00am-12:00pm
- Sunday: Closed
Labcorp - Freedom
- Chlamydia Test
- Syphilis Test
- Gonorrhea Test
- Hepatitis A Test
- Hepatitis B Test
- Hepatitis C Test
- Herpes Test
- HIV Test
- HIV Early Detection Test
- Trichomoniasis Test
- 272 Green Valley Road, Freedom, CA 95019
- Monday: 7:00am-3:30pm
- Tuesday: 7:00am-3:30pm
- Wednesday: 7:00am-3:30pm
- Thursday: 7:00am-3:30pm
- Friday: 7:00am-3:30pm
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
Salud Para La Gente (Clinica del Valle del Pajaro)
- Syphilis Test
- Chlamydia Test
- Conventional HIV Test
- 45 Nielson St, Watsonville, CA 95076 US
- (831) 728-0222
- https://splg.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
Clinica de Salud del Valle de Salinas (Castroville Medical Clinic)
- Hepatitis B Test
- Gonorrhea Test
- Syphilis Test
- Chlamydia Test
- Conventional HIV Test
- 10561 Merritt St, Castroville, CA 95012 US
- (831) 633-1514
- https://www.csvs.org/CastrovilleCACastroville.htm
- 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
- Saturday: 8:00am-5:00pm
STD Testing Options in Watsonville, California
In Watsonville , 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 Watsonville. 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 Watsonville 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 Watsonville, 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 Watsonville, CA 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 Watsonville
How Watsonville 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 Watsonville, CA?
STD testing costs can vary widely in Watsonville, CA 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 Watsonville, CA. 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 Watsonville, CA?
Yes! Private testing offers same-day, no appointment necessary STI testing in Watsonville, CA. 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 Watsonville, CA?
STD test result times will vary based on the type of test. Private STD testing in Watsonville, CA 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 Watsonville, CA?
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 Watsonville, CA
Pajaro, CA1 miles
Castroville, CA10 miles
Capitola, CA12 miles
Gilroy, CA12 miles
Soquel, CA14 miles
Santa Cruz, CA16 miles
Morgan Hill, CA16 miles
Marina, CA16 miles
Salinas, CA17 miles
Scotts Valley, CA18 miles
East Kern, CA18 miles
Hollister, CA20 miles
Seaside, CA21 miles
Pacific Grove, CA22 miles
Monterey, CA23 miles
Los Gatos, CA25 miles
Carmel, CA27 miles
Chualar, CA27 miles
Campbell, CA28 miles
Saratoga, CA29 miles
San Jose, CA30 miles
South San Jose Hills, CA31 miles
Santa Clara, CA32 miles
Cupertino, CA33 miles
Gonzales, CA34 miles
Sunnyvale, CA35 miles
Milpitas, CA37 miles
Mountain View, CA37 miles
Los Altos, CA38 miles
Los Altos Hills, CA38 miles
Alviso, CA38 miles
Soledad, CA41 miles
Stanford, CA42 miles
Palo Alto, CA42 miles
East Palo Alto, CA43 miles
Menlo Park, CA44 miles
Atherton, CA45 miles
Newark, CA46 miles
Fremont, CA46 miles
Redwood City, CA48 miles
Newman, CA49 miles
San Carlos, CA49 miles
Greenfield, CA50 miles
Union City, CA50 miles
Your privacy is our priority
Your health information is protected by strict federal and state privacy laws, and we use industry standard practices to ensure the security of that information.
Website Security
Email Privacy
Discreet Billing
Private Results
Confidential, Private and Affordable STD Testing?
Order a full 10 test STD screening panel now for just $139.
Individual STD tests starting at just $24.