STD Test of Cure (TOC): What It Is & Why It Matters

10 Apr 2025

What Is an STD Test of Cure?

A Test of Cure (TOC) for STDs is a follow-up test done after treatment to confirm that a sexually transmitted infection (STI) has been fully eliminated from your body.

Some STIs can linger without symptoms. A TOC ensures you're no longer contagious, your body is infection-free, and that the treatment actually worked.

Not All STIs Need a TOC — But Some Definitely Do

STIs That Often Require a TOC:

Infection	When to Test	Why It’s Important
Chlamydia	3–4 weeks after treatment (if pregnant or symptoms persist)	PCR may detect dead DNA early—timing matters
Gonorrhea	1–2 weeks after treatment (especially for drug-resistant cases)	Rising resistance makes follow-up crucial
Mycoplasma genitalium	3–5 weeks after treatment	High rates of antibiotic resistance
Trichomoniasis	2–3 weeks after treatment (especially in women)	Can be asymptomatic and recur
Syphilis	Blood tests every 3–6 months	TOC checks that antibody levels are dropping
Herpes (HSV)	No “cure,” but re-testing may help monitor outbreaks or confirm type	Useful for management, not eradication

STIs That Usually Don’t Need a TOC:

HPV (Human Papillomavirus) – Often clears on its own; monitored through Pap smears and HPV DNA tests
HIV – No TOC, but regular viral load monitoring if diagnosed
Hepatitis B/C – Managed through blood work, not PCR TOC

How To Do an STD Test of Cure – Step by Step

1.Wait the Recommended Time

Let the meds work & allow your body to clear dead cells. Testing too early can give false positives (especially with PCR). Your provider will recommend the best window based on your infection.

2.Schedule Your Follow-Up

Go back to your clinic, or ask if an at-home test kit is an option.

3.Provide a New Sample

Depending on the infection:

Urine sample
Vaginal/cervical/urethral swab
Throat or rectal swab
Blood test (for syphilis, HIV, hepatitis)

4.Wait for Lab Results

PCR or NAAT: 1–3 days
Blood tests: may take up to a week

5.Next Steps

If you’re cleared, you're good to go!
If still positive, your provider may:
- Adjust your medication
- Test for drug resistance
- Treat your partner(s)
- Discuss prevention strategies