🔬 Why the right sample type matters
Whether urine, vaginal or rectal swab – the choice of sample determines how reliable your test result is . This is because sexually transmitted infections usually settle where contact has taken place.
So if you had anal contact, the sample should also be taken from there.
With DoctorBox STI home tests, you can now do exactly that: choose the right sample type – discreetly, safely and scientifically sound.
🦠 How STIs are transmitted – and why this is important
STIs are transmitted through mucous membrane contact – regardless of whether the contact was vaginal, anal, or oral. This means that only testing at the affected area can reliably rule out an infection.
Common transmission sites
- Genital area: Vaginal intercourse
- Rectal: Anal intercourse or anal contact
- Oral: Oral sex (less common, but possible)
Many infections are asymptomatic. Therefore, it is important to perform the test at the site of contact – otherwise, some infections will go undetected .
🧪 What types of samples are there?
Each sample type provides information about a specific infection location. Choose the sample based on where you had contact with the infected person.
urine sample
Vaginal swab
rectal swab
Dried blood blood sample
👉 Which sample is right for you?
If you are vaginally active
• Direct detection of pathogens in the vaginal mucosa
• Useful for discharge, burning or itching
If you are anal active (whether giving or receiving)
• Recommended for anal sex or anal use of sex toys
• Pathogens such as chlamydia or gonorrhea can settle in the rectal mucosa, often without symptoms.
"Only men who have sex with men need a rectal swab."
Anyone who has anal contact can be affected – regardless of gender or orientation.
If you only had vaginal or oral contact
• Usually sufficient if no anal intercourse took place
• Ideal for STI Basic or STI Standard
🏠 How does the sample collection process work?
A rectal swab is also easy, painless and anonymous to perform.
- Order test kits online (e.g. STI Basic with rectal swab)
- Follow the instructions and take a swab using the enclosed swab.
- Send the sample to the lab free of charge in the return envelope.
- Retrieve results digitally – discreetly and securely
🎯 For whom the new rectal swab is particularly useful
- People who have anal sex or anal contact
- People with changing partners:
- Men who have sex with men (MSM)
- Users of sex toys (used anally or shared)
- People with symptoms in the anal area such as itching, burning or discharge
(Source: Marcus JL et al., Clinical Infectious Diseases 2011; 53(4): 336–343, DOI: 10.1093/cid/cir404)
🧬 DoctorBox home tests: Precise. Discreet. Modern.
Three options – depending on your needs:
⚡ STI Basic with rectal swab
Tests for chlamydia and gonorrhea , either rectally or in urine.
STI Basic🔬 STI Pro
Comprehensive laboratory test for 8 pathogens – ideal for regular monitoring.
To the STI Pro✨ Conclusion: Test where contact occurred
STIs are common – but easily treatable if detected early . Choosing the right type of sample ensures reliable results and protects you and your partners.
Take the test where the contact occurred – discreetly with DoctorBox.
