Walk-In STD Testing: When to Get Tested and What to Expect

You can get walk-in STD testing at any HealthCARE Express clinic with no appointment and no long wait for a callback. It's quick, it's confidential, and for most people it starts with a simple urine sample or swab. If you've had a new partner, noticed something that doesn't feel right, or just want peace of mind, here's what to know before you come in.

Do You Need an STD Test If You Don't Have Symptoms?

Often, yes. Many of the most common STDs, especially chlamydia and gonorrhea, cause no symptoms at all, so the only way to know is to get tested. That matters because an infection you don't know about can still be passed to a partner, and some can cause lasting problems if they go untreated, including pelvic inflammatory disease and trouble getting pregnant later on.

It's a good idea to get tested if:

•    You have a new partner, or more than one partner

•    A partner tells you they've tested positive for an STD

•    You had sex without a condom and aren't sure of your partner's status

•    You're starting a new relationship and want a clean slate

•    You're a sexually active woman under 25. Yearly chlamydia and gonorrhea screening is recommended for this group even without symptoms.

Common STD Symptoms to Watch For

When symptoms do show up, they can be easy to mistake for something else, like a urinary tract infection or a yeast infection. Come in if you notice:

•    Burning or pain when you pee

•    Unusual discharge from the vagina or penis

•    Sores, bumps, or blisters on or around the genitals or mouth

•    Itching or irritation that doesn't go away

•    Pain during sex

•    Lower belly or pelvic pain

•    Bleeding between periods or after sex

Symptoms that come and go don't mean the infection is gone. If something has changed, get it checked.

When to Get Tested After a Possible Exposure

Timing matters. If you test the day after an exposure, the test may not pick up an infection yet. For chlamydia and gonorrhea, testing at least one to two weeks after exposure gives the most reliable result. Some infections take longer to show up on a test, so your provider may recommend a follow-up test a few weeks or months later.

If you have symptoms, don't wait for the right window. Come in now so we can check what's going on and treat it if needed.

“A lot of people put off STD testing because they’re embarrassed. Honestly, this is a routine visit for us. Nobody here is judging you. We’d much rather see you early, get you tested, and get you treated than have you wait and worry.”

— Dr. David Caltrider, HealthCARE Express

What Happens During STD Testing at HCE

Testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea usually takes a urine sample or a quick swab. Depending on your symptoms and history, your provider may also recommend a blood draw to check for other infections. HCE clinics do lab work on site, and tests that are sent out typically come back within one to two business days. You can see everything we test for on our services page.

If your test comes back positive, the next step is treatment. Many common STDs are curable with antibiotics. Your partner or partners should get tested and treated too, and it's best to avoid sex until you've both finished treatment so the infection doesn't pass back and forth.

Is STD testing confidential?

Yes. All testing at HealthCARE Express is private and confidential, and your results are shared only with you through secure channels. You don't have to explain why you're there in the lobby. Just let the front desk know you'd like to be seen, and you can talk through the details privately with your provider.

Does insurance cover STD testing?

Most insurance plans cover medically necessary testing, and HCE accepts most major plans. If you're uninsured or would rather not use insurance, self-pay pricing is available. You can find more on our cost of visits page.

Walk-In STD Testing in Shreveport, Texarkana, and Central Arkansas

Whether you're near our Shreveport or Texarkana clinics, or our Sherwood, Maumelle, and Bryant locations around Little Rock, you don't need to wait days for an appointment with your regular doctor. Walk in when it works for you, with extended hours at most clinics.

What to expect at your visit

Bring a photo ID and your insurance card if you plan to use it. Check in at the front desk, and a provider will ask about your symptoms and history in a private exam room. Most visits are quick, and you'll leave knowing exactly what was tested and how you'll get your results.

Walk into any HealthCARE Express location — no appointment needed. Find your nearest clinic →