Free STD Testing in Cambridge, MA

At-Home STD Testing

Testing for STDs at home is safe, convenient, and private. Performed regularly, it can help you stay healthy and avoid unknowingly transmitting STDs.

You have many options for at-home STD testing. The best at-home STD tests are FDA approved and evaluated for safety and accuracy with fast result turnaround times and support from health care professionals.

At-home STD testing kits should include instructions for collection and test registration, along with materials such as containers and swabs to collect and send your sample to the lab. Most at-home STD tests offer results in about five days through a secure online patient portal.

The three most common STDs in Cambridge are chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. While all three infections are present at a lower frequency per 100,000 people in Middlesex County, where Cambridge is located, than in the nation as a whole, the number of cases has steadily increased over the past few years.

Of the 5,411 chlamydia infections reported in Middlesex County in 2018, 524 infections were reported in Cambridge. This is an increase of about 20% over the number of infections reported in the city in 2014. Statewide, nearly two-thirds of cases are documented in females. However, among males, infection rates have been climbing, with reported cases increasing by 132% between 2008 and 2018. The majority of chlamydia infections in Massachusetts are disclosed in those aged 20-24. In Cambridge, over 30% of infections were among those in this age bracket in 2018.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) remain one of the most critical public health challenges facing the United States, with approximately 26 million new STD infections occurring every year. Nearly half of these new infections affect young people ages 15 to 24.

Community-based organizations are a vital first line of defense in the fight against STDs and HIV/AIDS in particular. They generate awareness and foster social change while providing access to testing and treatment.

You may not be aware of all the STD resources in Cambridge that can help prevent the spread of STDs. Get connected with these community organizations that are leading the fight against STDs and HIV/AIDS with resources and support:

The Cambridge Health Alliance health system offers sexual and reproductive health services at several locations throughout the region, including primary care clinics, women’s health clinics, and school-based centers. Services that are provided include education, counseling, and testing for HIV and STDs. Most types of public and private health insurance plans are accepted, and a sliding fee schedule is available for those without insurance. Appointments are required and can be made by calling the main phone number.

1493 Cambridge Street
Cambridge, MA 02139
Multiple Cambridge locations
617-665-1606
Website

Several CVS locations in the Cambridge area are MinuteClinic sites, which are affordable alternatives to urgent care. At these clinics, visitors can receive STD testing for infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. Tests are conducted through urine and blood tests and then sent to an outside lab for results. Prescriptions for medications are provided for those who test positive. Treatment is also available for those whose partner tested positive for an STD. Appointments are available on a walk-in basis or may be scheduled online.

36 White Street
Cambridge, MA 02140
Multiple Cambridge locations
866-389-2727
Website

The AIDS Action Committee of Massachusetts is a local nonprofit organization that provides free screenings for HIV and common STDs such as syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia at its location in Cambridge. As part of the visit, the clinic provides confidential counseling regarding STD prevention. To receive services, individuals are required to preregister by calling 617-450-1987.

359 Green Street,
Cambridge, MA 02139
617-661-3040
Website

MAPS provides an array of services for the Brazilian, Cabo Verdean, Portuguese, and other Portuguese-speaking communities in the Cambridge region, including free, confidential STD testing for HIV/AIDS, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and hepatitis C. It also offers personalized risk-reduction counseling, information and education about PrEP, and referrals to local resources for those living with HIV. Testing is provided by appointment and on a walk-in basis. The organization is also recently begun offering COVID-19 vaccines. While services are focused on the Portuguese-speaking community to remove barriers to health care, the clinic serves everyone who needs STD services.

1046 Cambridge Street
Cambridge, MA 02139
617-864-7600
Website

Greater Boston Health Center is the closest Planned Parenthood clinic and is situated just outside of Cambridge. At this clinic, clients receive a full array of sexual and reproductive health services, including testing for STDs such as herpes, gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, and hepatitis. Treatment and prevention services are also available. Testing is conducted through urine or blood samples or mouth swabs, and many STD tests require an exam. Appointments are required for service and can be booked over the phone or online. The clinic accepts most health insurance plans and offers discounted services for qualifying self-paying clients.

1055 Commonwealth Avenue
Boston, MA 02215
800-258-4448
Website

ABCD Family Planning is a nonprofit organization that operates clinics throughout the greater Boston area. It offers STD counseling, testing, and treatment. The clinic can help clients sign up for health insurance and provides referrals to other types of assistance. Those who may be eligible for free services include adolescents, those who need confidential services, and those who meet income guidelines. Appointments are required and can be made by calling the nearest neighborhood clinic.

1 Boston Medical Center Place
Boston, MA 02118
617-414-4086
Website

Fenway Health operates several HIV/STI public health clinics that provide comprehensive testing for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis C. Appointments are available by request or on a walk-in basis. To preregister for an appointment, clients should call 617-267-0159. Services are available to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. Free care and discounted services may be provided to clients depending on income, family size, and medical expenses.

1340 Boylston Street
Boston, MA 02215
617-927-6000
Website

• https://gis.cdc.gov/grasp/nchhstpatlas/tables.html
• https://www.mass.gov/lists/std-data-and-reports
• https://gis.cdc.gov/grasp/nchhstpatlas/charts.html
• https://www.cdc.gov/std/stats18/STDSurveillance2018-full-report.pdf