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Yahoo
02-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Best at-home syphilis tests of 2025, according to health experts
After years of alarming increases in rates of syphilis and congenital syphilis in the U.S., with cases jumping by 80% between 2018 and 2022, there's some good news on the syphilis front: As of 2023, rates of primary and secondary syphilis have declined for the first time in more than two decades, down 10% overall, with rates of all syphilis increasing by just 1% — significantly less than in previous years. Congenital syphilis — when a mother passes syphilis to her baby during pregnancy — has also slowed, with just a 3% increase from 2022 to 2023 — significantly less than the 30% increases seen in prior year-over-year data. But just because rates of syphilis are falling doesn't mean you should take a breather from monitoring your sexual health. Syphilis often goes undetected, with mild or even nonexistent symptoms. That's why registered nurse Lauren Thayer says "it's important to get tested if you suspect you may have an infection." Plus, syphilis doesn't discriminate when it comes to age. The highest number of new cases is reported in people between the ages of 20 and 34, but Dr. Alyssa Dweck, chief medical officer at Bonafide Health, says she's seen a surge of cases among perimenopausal and menopausal women. "Many women are engaging with new partners due to divorce or being widowed," she says, noting that since pregnancy is less of a concern in this demographic, they may forgo the use of condoms, increasing the risk of going to your doctor or a clinic to discuss concerns about possible exposure to a sexually transmitted disease (STD) or sexually transmitted infection (STI) is uncomfortable, one good (and private) way to screen yourself is with an at-home syphilis test. "Remote testing is great," says Barbara Van Der Pol, director of the UAB STD Diagnostics Laboratory, but she emphasizes that it's important to do your research. "There are some bad actors preying on consumers."To help you find the best at-home syphilis test for your needs, our team consulted with a panel of sexual health doctors and medical experts to better understand what to look for and what to avoid. We considered 15 tests from reputable companies and rated each based on ease of use, accuracy, whether the test was fully in-home or required a trip to the lab, price and whether medical consultations with treatment plans were available. Here, we've highlighted our top four options for a range of needs, but if you're interested in testing for additional sexually transmitted infections, consider our picks for best at-home STD tests and best at-home herpes tests. Best at-home test for syphilis overall Other top at-home tests for syphilis we recommend for 2025 Factors to consider when choosing an at-home test for syphilis How we chose FAQs Meet our experts Update, June 26, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability. Our No. 1 pick for the best at-home syphilis test remains unchanged. (back to top) (back to top) When buying an at-home syphilis test, there are several important factors to take into account. Lab validation: Make sure that the test is analyzed by a reputable lab — one that's CLIA-certified and/or CAP-accredited. These third-party organizations ensure that labs follow the proper protocols and safety standards for testing. STI tests offered: Some companies offer individual syphilis tests, while others only offer STD panels that test for multiple STDs and STIs including syphilis. If you're unsure whether you've been exposed to more than just syphilis, it's likely in your best interest to spring for a full-panel test to cover all the bases. Collection method: Some test kits allow you to collect a sample at home, while others require an in-person visit to a testing center. Make sure you choose the option you are most comfortable with. Time for results: Test results take anywhere from one day to a full week. If you plan to get tested regularly, you might not mind waiting a little longer, but in some cases, you might want to know as soon as possible. Make sure you understand how the results will be delivered — email, phone call, private portal or app — and in what time frame. Cost: Depending on the company and STIs being tested for, at-home tests can cost between $50 and $250. It's also important to note that some companies offer subscription options, accept insurance or allow FSA/HSA payments, all of which can lower the price. Follow-up care: Many at-home testing companies offer doctor consultations for positive results, along with options for obtaining treatment and prescriptions. These services are sometimes free with the test, but there may be an additional fee, so make sure you're aware of any extra fees associated with medical consultations and treatment plans. (back to top) To find the best at-home syphilis tests on the market, our team first consulted four sexual health doctors and experts to learn what to look for in an STD test. We then looked at 15 tests and compared each based on a variety of factors including whether each test screened only for syphilis or was grouped in with a broader STD or STI panel; if CLIA-certified or CAP-accredited labs processed the results; accuracy; ease of ordering; collection method; time for results; follow-up support and cost. (back to top) According to Thayer, syphilis often goes unnoticed. Some symptoms are mild or even nonexistent, which is why it's important to get tested if you suspect you may have an infection. The most common initial symptom, though, is a small sore, called a chancre, on the genitals, rectum or mouth. Chancres are usually firm, round and painless. "Because it's painless, people may not notice it or think it's a problem," says Dr. Yudara Kularathne, a consultant physician. However, he stresses that if it's not treated, it will progress and lead to more serious health problems. Some symptoms that may develop after the initial stage (after the chancre) include a rash on the palms and soles of the feet, fever, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, weight loss and patchy hair loss. While medical intervention is needed, syphilis is easy to treat as long as it's caught early. The antibiotic penicillin is the most common form of treatment for early intervention. When not caught early, there can be additional complications caused by the syphilis infection that will require a more intensive treatment plan. "Late-stage symptoms can also cause tumors, blindness and/or paralysis," says Thayer. "It can damage your brain, nervous system and other organs." Yes, syphilis can have a serious impact on women who are pregnant. "Untreated syphilis can be passed to the baby in the womb, leading to a condition called congenital syphilis," says Kularathne. Congenital syphilis can cause a host of health issues for the baby — including developmental delays, deformities, seizures, blindness, deafness and jaundice — and there is also an increased risk of stillbirth or miscarriage. Although it can be detected sooner, syphilis can take up to 12 weeks to show up on a blood test, says Thayer. However, after a chancre appears, the bacteria can be detected in one to two weeks. Syphilis tests that use reliable, accredited labs for analysis are generally very accurate. The biggest factor is how the sample is collected, so if you use a self-collected test kit, it's important to make sure you follow the directions carefully. False positives and false negatives do occur, though, says Dweck, so she recommends confirmatory testing, particularly before treatment. At-home syphilis tests include a sample blood draw that is either done by you in the privacy of your home using materials included with your test kit, or done by scheduling an appointment with an affiliated lab that works directly with the company you purchased the test from. It's actually very simple and follows the same testing practices used in a doctor's office. In fact, if you opt for an in-person local lab sample draw, it's possible that it will be the same lab your doctor uses, as many of the labs affiliated with at-home testing companies are with the two largest lab companies in the United States: Quest Diagnostics and Labcorp. The only real difference is the type of test — a confirmatory test, an RPR test or a venereal disease research laboratory (VDRL) test — all of which deliver highly accurate results. (back to top) Dr. Alyssa Dweck, chief medical officer at Bonafide Health Barbara Van Der Pol, professor of medicine and public health at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and director of the UAB STD Diagnostics Laboratory Lauren Thayer, registered nurse and health care writer at Healthcanal Dr. Yudara Kularathne, consultant physician and cofounder of HeHealth (back to top) Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
Yahoo
02-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
The 5 best at-home yeast infection tests of 2025
An estimated 75% of women will experience at least one yeast infection, or vaginal candidiasis (CV), in their lifetime, and nearly half will experience two or more infections. Unfortunately, yeast infections can be hard to distinguish from other vaginal conditions and sexually transmitted diseases, most notably bacterial vaginosis (BV) and Trichomonas vaginalis (TV), as all three are a type of vaginitis (the clinical word for inflammation of the vagina) that cause similar symptoms including redness, itching, vaginal pain and burning. The symptoms may be the same, but the treatment for each of these conditions is different, so it's important to determine which one you have. While it's always best to see your health care provider, if you're looking to get answers fast (particularly if you have to wait a few days for an appointment with your primary care doctor), the best at-home yeast infection test kits offer a convenient solution. Best at-home yeast infection test overall Other top at-home yeast infection tests we recommend for 2025 Factors to consider when choosing an at-home yeast infection test How we chose FAQs Meet our experts These home-based tests help you assess your vaginal health to quickly find out if your pH levels are off or if there are other possible factors at play. According to Dr. Alyssa Dweck, board-certified gynecologist and chief medical officer at Bonafide Health, home tests are especially beneficial for "those who have had a definitively diagnosed yeast infection in the past and feel they have another infection." They can also help you garner important information that you can share with your doctor, particularly if you're seeing your provider through a telehealth platform, she says. However, "for those with recurrent symptoms, a formal in-office culture is advised to check for diagnosis of yeast as opposed to BV, trichomonas or another STI so proper treatment can be initiated," she says. Still, since most yeast infections can be treated without a prescription, at-home tests can be a useful tool. "Over-the-counter yeast remedies, such as Monistat or a generic equivalent, are quite effective for simple yeast vaginitis," Dweck says. To help you find the best at-home yeast infection test for your needs, we spoke with a panel of medical experts to learn about the various self-administered tests on the market. Then, using my own knowledge as a health care professional and the experts' input, I researched more than 20 different yeast infection and pH tests and rated each based on accuracy, virtual medical support offered — including prescribing doctors on staff — ease of use, the wait time should a sample need to be mailed to a lab and the test kit's price point. Here are the best at-home yeast infection tests for 2025, according to our research and experts. And of course, the market for at-home test kits is expanding, so it's worth noting you can also check out our top picks for best at-home STD tests and best at-home fertility tests too. Update, Jul. 02, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability. Our No. 1 pick for the best yeast infection test kit changed, as the previous option was from Stix, which is now Winx. (back to top) (back to top) When choosing the right yeast infection test for you, consider the following factors: Type of test: When it comes to at-home yeast infection tests, you have the option of either a vaginal pH test (a cheaper option) with on-the-spot results or a lab test for a more accurate, in-depth screening. If you opt for a lab test, also consider what is being tested. Some tests — like the ones from Daye — look at your entire vaginal microbiome and can give you a more detailed understanding of your vaginal health. There are also tests that combine yeast infection and STD screenings, such as the test from MyLab Box. Accuracy: Lab tests are going to be more accurate than vaginal pH strips. If you choose a lab-based test, make sure to use a reputable company that uses CAP- and CLIA-certified labs for the most accurate results. Time until results: Lab tests can take anywhere from two to 10 days for results. If you need something sooner, vaginal pH tests offer almost-instant results. Medical support: Many lab-based tests offer doctor consultations and treatment options for positive results. With some, consultations are included in the price of the initial test, whereas others offer consults for an additional fee. Cost: The tests on this list range from $14 to $200 (or more, depending on additional testing options). Tests that require lab processing are pricier, while vaginal pH tests offer a more affordable option. Also, consider the cost of shipping, treatment plans and medical support. You may be able to offset the cost of some tests by paying with your HSA or FSA funds. Privacy: Make sure to choose a company that is HIPAA-compliant and safeguards your information. Additionally, some tests are shipped in discreet packaging. (back to top) To find the best at-home yeast infection test available, our team researched more than 20 different options and compared them based on cost, ease of use and accuracy. We made selections based on my own experience as a health care professional and health journalist along with the expert input of a panel of obstetrician-gynecologists (ob-gyns), reproductive endocrinologists and other health care professionals specializing in female sexual and reproductive health. (back to top) Yeast infections are caused by a type of fungi called candida (a genus of yeast). Candida naturally lives in and on your body, but when there's an overgrowth, it can lead to infections, including oral thrush and vaginal candidiasis. Dr. Madeline Stark, an ob-gyn based in Chicago, notes that there are certain risk factors that can make vaginal yeast infections more likely: Diabetes — Yeast feeds on glucose, so women who have elevated blood glucose levels are often at a higher risk. Antibiotics — Since antibiotics kill bacteria, including good bacteria, yeast can grow unchecked. Compromised immunity — being immunocompromised makes it harder for the immune system to prevent infection. Increased estrogen — Yeast infections are more common in women with higher levels of estrogen, such as women who are pregnant or on hormonal birth control. There are two different types of at-home yeast infection tests: 100% at-home vaginal pH tests and lab-based tests where you take a sample at home, then ship the sample to a predetermined lab using the shipping materials included with the test kit. Vaginal pH tests are done entirely at home and results are ready in a matter of minutes. These tests measure your vaginal pH levels to help determine whether you have an infection. Different infections are associated with different pH levels. When you have a yeast infection, symptoms of burning, itching and discomfort are typically associated with a normal pH. With BV and trich, your pH levels are typically much higher, so by process of elimination it's possible to determine which of the three infections you may be experiencing. Lab-based tests are much more accurate, says Stark. With these tests, only the sample collection is done at home. The testing process is done in a lab using nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT), which can detect the presence of yeast. Probably not, says Dr. Stephanie Hack, board-certified ob-gyn, "While a mild yeast infection can occasionally resolve on its own, most of the time, untreated infections will only get worse." Stark adds, "In some cases, symptoms of itching, irritation and increased discharge can occur and then resolve within a few days, which can be mistaken for a mild infection." But, she says, "In this scenario, it's more likely that yeast was not the culprit." Yeast infections are usually not contagious, says Hack, however it is possible to transmit an infection to a partner. "A large amount of yeast could be introduced into the vagina through a yeast infection on the glans penis," she says, adding that the passage of yeast can go both ways. Some men, as many as 15%, can develop an itchy rash on their penis after unprotected sex with a partner who has a yeast infection. Yeast infections can cause irritation, inflammation and discomfort of the vagina and vulva, says Dr. Jill Purdie, board-certified ob-gyn. Symptoms can vary, but they typically include: Vaginal itching A burning sensation when urinating or during intercourse Redness or swelling of the vulva Pain or soreness Red, scaly rash An abnormal discharge — it can be thin and watery or thick, white and clumpy with a cottage cheese-like appearance Discharge is generally odor-free It's important to note that symptoms can vary so it's always a good idea to consult a healthcare provider, especially if you've never had a yeast infection before. Yeast infections are treated with a type of antifungal medication called azoles, says Stark. It comes in either topical or oral form and there are over-the-counter and prescription options available. Over-the-counter medications include topical creams, ointments and vaginal suppositories, while oral medications require a prescription. There is also a prescription-strength cream available. Both topical and oral antifungals have similar effectiveness, Stark says, so treatment is typically based on individual preference. The only exception, she says, is during pregnancy. Topical medications are recommended for women who are pregnant, especially during the first trimester. It depends on the type of test you choose, Purdie says. Tests which are based on vaginal pH are far more limited. If your vaginal pH is higher than normal, it can be indicative of a yeast infection, but these kinds of tests can't tell you for sure if you have an infection. Lab-based tests, on the other hand, actually check your vaginal fluid for the presence of yeast or other bacteria, so they are the equivalent to the type of testing that you'd receive at a doctor's office. (back to top) Dr. Alyssa Dweck, gynecologist and chief medical officer at Bonafide Health Dr. Stephanie Hack, obstetrician and gynecologist Dr. Madeline Stark, obstetrician and gynecologist Dr. Jill Purdie, obstetrician (back to top) Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
Buzz Feed
12-02-2025
- Health
- Buzz Feed
Doctors Shared Crucial Advice On How To Properly Clean "Down There" And It May Not Be What You Think
When it comes to body parts, there's no shortage of products designed to keep the vaginal area feel fresh and clean. There are 'feminine wipes' that claim to be more refreshing than toilet paper and skin care that costs more because it is packaged in feminine colors and has floral scents. But misunderstandings about feminine hygiene and how to best clean 'down there' can be harmful and can lead to wasting money on unnecessary products. We asked health experts for the best way to keep vaginas and vulvas clean simply, without spending a fortune. There's no need to routinely wash inside vaginas because they are 'self-cleaning ovens,' according to Dr. Karyn Eilber, a urogynecologist and co-author of ' A Woman's Guide to Her Pelvic Floor: What the F*@# Is Going On Down There? ' Lactobacilli, a type of natural bacteria that inhabits the vagina, produces lactic acid to keep the vaginal pH in the normal acidic range. This helps keep vaginas clean, explained Dr. Alyssa Dweck, a gynecologist and chief medical officer at Bonafide Health. Washing inside the vagina, which is also called douching, can disrupt the natural microbe and pH levels in the vagina, she said. Once this happens, it's possible to become irritated or develop infections. That doesn't mean people need to take special precautions to keep cleansing products away from their vaginas completely. If a little soap or body wash gets into the vagina while bathing, it may be uncomfortable, but it's unlikely to be harmful, said Dr. Victoria Scott, a urogynecologist and one of Eilber's co-authors. If someone does accidentally get a cleanser in the vagina, they should gently flush it out with water from the showerhead, said Dr. Christine Greves, an obstetrician-gynecologist. However, there is a rare exception. Even though the insides of vaginas shouldn't be cleaned regularly, sometimes they need to be rinsed. 'It can be helpful to get water inside of the vaginal canal a bit when showering to help clean out blood or discharge from a yeast infection,' said Dr. Jennifer Anger, a urogynecologist. Anger explained that one can perform a cleanout as needed 'with a simple finger sweep while showering' by 'placing a wet finger inside to scoop out any blood or discharge.' You should not use soap or cleansers when performing a cleanout. Do we need to wash around the vulva? Unlike the inside of the vagina, the outside, called the vulva, is not self-cleaning. 'When you don't wash the vulva, it's like not cleaning other areas with glands and hair, like your armpits,' Eilber said. She recommends washing the vulva whenever someone bathes. Dweck explained that, because yeast and bacteria tend to thrive in moist, dark environments like the vulva, poor vaginal hygiene can cause health issues. 'Not washing can lead to unpleasant odors, yeast infections, other infections, irritation, inflammation, swelling, and even cysts on hair follicles,' said Dr. Cecilia Zhang, an obstetrician/gynecologist at Atlantic Health System in New Jersey. Because the vulva is delicate, Dweck emphasized that 'vigorous scrubbing is not needed,' and may be harmful. She recommended cleansing the vulva with hands or a soft washcloth. Both methods are effective, and which one someone uses is solely a matter of personal preference. Greves recommended washing from front to back to prevent soap from getting into the urethra and to prevent contamination from the rectal area, which can cause urinary tract infections. After washing, Anger said that it's important to use a towel to pat dry before putting on underwear to avoid excess moisture, which can lead to bacterial and yeast growth. She adds that sleeping without underwear is an ideal way to help keep the vagnial area dry throughout the night, which can help prevent irritation and infection. 'Allowing your vaginal area to breathe is important,' Zhang said. According to Dweck, even with regular washing, vaginal scents are normal and may vary throughout someone's cycle. However, some vaginal odors may indicate an infection. Unusual odors or 'odor accompanied by unusual discharge, itching, irritation, bleeding, or pain is best evaluated by a health care provider,' she said. It's not a great idea to reach for regular soap or body wash before cleaning down there. Some products contain ingredients that can disrupt the vulva's microbiome, leading to infection and irritation, so it's important to be thoughtful. For most people, a simple warm water rinse is sufficient, Zhang said. However, for those who prefer using more than just water to wash, many gentle cleansers are safe, Zhang said. Additionally, water alone may not get rid of smells caused by sweating, so those who sweat a lot may need to use a cleanser, Greves explained. When looking for a cleanser that is safe for vulvas, Scott recommended using 'gentle, pH-balanced, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic and preservative-free' products. Specifically, she recommended avoiding products with parabens that can cause hormonal disruption. Scott also advised that one should avoid scented products, harsh detergents such as sodium lauryl sulfate, glycerin and glycol, antibacterial agents such as triclosan, petroleum-based ingredients and alcohol. 'Not only can these substances be abrasive and cause irritation, dryness and pain of the vagina and vulva, but they can alter the pH balance, which may predispose you to developing infections,' she said. Even if a cleanser seems safe to use, if it causes any irritation, Dweck recommended rinsing the vulva with warm water and avoiding that product in the future. Greves emphasized that you don't need cleansers or soaps that claim to be made just for the vaginal area. Those are likely to cost more without any additional benefit. When in doubt, Eilber said to keep things simple. 'Less is more when it comes to the vagina. Treat your vulva like delicate skin,' she said. HuffPost.
