How Soon Can You Get Tested for STDs After Unprotected Oral Sex?

Unprotected oral sex can expose you to STDs like herpes, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. But when should you get tested? We break down CDC-backed timelines and why clinic testing is your safest bet.

Can You Get an STD from Oral Sex? The Risks

• Herpes (HSV-1): Transmits through cold sores. 50% of new genital herpes cases stem from oral sex (CDC).

• Gonorrhea/Chlamydia: Infect the throat – often symptomless but detectable via clinic tests.

• Syphilis: Rare but possible through oral sores.

Testing Timelines for Oral STDs

• Gonorrhea:

  • Earliest Test: 2–6 days

  • Test Type: Throat swab PCR

• Chlamydia:

  • Earliest Test: 5–7 days

  • Test Type: Urine test/swab

• Herpes:

  • Earliest Test: 2–12 days

  • Test Type: Swab or blood test

Source: CDC STD Testing Guidelines.

Step-by-Step Testing Process

1. Order a Test: Choose a comprehensive panel like the 10-Panel Test, which covers throat infections.

2. Visit a Clinic: Over 4,500 labs offer discreet throat swabs.

3. Get Results: Online in 1–2 days.

Can I Test for Oral STDs at Home?

No. At-home kits lack throat swab accuracy. The CDC recommends clinic testing for reliable results.

Case Study: Mark’s Experience

Mark, 29, developed a sore throat after unprotected oral sex. A 10-Panel Test detected asymptomatic gonorrhea. “I’d never have known without the clinic test,” he says.