Ordering an STI test online is easier than ever. With just a few clicks, you can have a test delivered to your home without making an appointment with your doctor or a sexual health clinic. That sounds ideal. But how reliable are these online tests really?
In an article published by de Volkskrant (27 February 2026), this question is discussed in detail. The newspaper warns that some self-tests can even feel like “Russian roulette”. That may sound alarming, which is why it is important to understand the difference between the different types of STI tests.
At Labtest.nl, we believe that clear information is the foundation for making a safe choice. Below, we clearly explain what you need to know.
Three types of STI tests: know the difference
According to the article in de Volkskrant, there are three types of STI tests:
1. Test through a doctor or sexual health clinic
A sample is professionally collected and analysed in a laboratory. This is the traditional and reliable option.
2. Home test with laboratory analysis
You collect the sample yourself at home (for example, urine or a finger-prick blood sample) and send it to an accredited laboratory. The analysis is performed by a certified laboratory, just like with Labtest.nl.
3. Self-test (rapid test)
Similar to a COVID-19 test: you perform the entire test yourself and read the result directly from lines on the test cassette.
The article makes clear that risks are particularly associated with the latter category (3. Self-test rapid test) without laboratory analysis.
Why some self-tests are unreliable
de Volkskrant quotes experts who indicate that many rapid tests for infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea without laboratory analysis are not sufficiently reliable. Both false-positive and false-negative results can occur.
What does this mean in practice?
- You may think you have an STI when you do not
- Or you may be falsely reassured even though you are infected
Both situations can have unpleasant consequences: unnecessary stress or delayed treatment.
One exception is mentioned: an HIV self-test can be reliable, provided that sufficient time has passed since a potential exposure.zelftest kan betrouwbaar zijn, mits voldoende tijd is verstreken na een risicocontact.
Home tests: reliable with laboratory analysis
The article emphasises that home tests where the sample is sent to a laboratory are reliable. The key is professional analysis by a certified laboratory.
This means:
- The sample is analysed using the same techniques as in regular healthcare
- The result is carefully reviewed by a doctor
- You receive a clear report
This is precisely why Labtest.nl works exclusively with recognised laboratories.
Safe and discreet testing with Labtest.nl
Would you like reassurance without waiting times or an uncomfortable conversation in the doctor’s office? A reliable home test with professional laboratory analysis can be a safe choice.
With Labtest.nl, you benefit from:
- Discreet shipping (100% anonymous)
- Reliable results through professional laboratory analysis
- Clear and easy-to-understand results
Explore our wide range of STI tests with results from our certified laboratory. Choose clarity. Choose reliability. Choose Labtest.nl.
This blog is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice from a doctor. If your symptoms persist or you have concerns, always contact your doctor.dan altijd contact op met je huisarts.
The leading home STI tests from Labtest.nl.
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Hepatitis B Test
€49,00Tested for:
Hepatitis B -
Syphilis test
€49,00 -
Chlamydia and gonorrhoea test
€49,95Tested for:
Chlamydia, Gonorrhea -
Chlamydia test
€45,00Tested for:
Chlamydia -
STI test for men
From €49,95Tested for:
Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Hepatitis B, Herpes Simplex Virus I & II, HIV, Mycoplasma genitalium, Mycoplasma hominis, Syphilis, Trichomonas, Ureaplasma urealyticum -
STI test for women
From €49,95Tested for:
Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Hepatitis B, Herpes Simplex Virus I & II, HIV, Mycoplasma genitalium, Mycoplasma hominis, Syphilis, Trichomonas, Ureaplasma urealyticum -
HIV test
€49,00Tested for:
HIV
