Howard Brown Health
The Midwest's largest LGBTQ health organization, operating clinics across the city with free or low-cost STI testing on a sliding scale.
Visit official site →1. LGBTQ-Affirming Sexual Health Care in Chicago
Public health department options
Chicago Department of Public Health funds community-based free testing across the city.
2. Free Testing Finders (Nationwide)
- CDC GetTested · gettested.cdc.gov
The CDC's official locator for free, fast, and confidential testing sites near any ZIP code. \n - Planned Parenthood · plannedparenthood.org/health-center
Federally vetted sexual health provider; most locations offer STI testing on a sliding scale, often same-week. \n - HIV.gov locator · locator.hiv.gov
Federal locator for HIV testing, PrEP, and care services nationwide.
3. What Testing Costs in Chicago
Typical costs, so nobody gets surprised: public health department clinics are usually free or under $50 per infection tested. Community LGBTQ health centers are free or sliding-scale (they will work with you regardless of insurance). Private labs and at-home kits typically run $100-$200 for a full panel; if you have insurance under the ACA, STI screening is covered as preventive care at no cost at in-network providers. PrEP is free under nearly all insurance thanks to federal requirements, and the manufacturer's assistance program covers uninsured patients in most states.
4. Quick Answers
- How often should gay and bi men test? The CDC's guidance for men who have sex with men: at least annually, and every 3 to 6 months if you have multiple partners or a new partner. PrEP users test quarterly as part of care.
- Do I need symptoms to get tested? No. Most STIs, including most chlamydia and gonorrhea cases, show no symptoms. Testing on a schedule is the only reliable way to know.
- Is it confidential? Yes. Public clinics and health centers keep records confidential; in most states, minors can consent to STI testing without a parent. Anonymous HIV testing is widely available.