STI testing, not from the municipal health service but from an independent laboratory

For many people, the GGD (Dutch Municipal Health Service) is the first thought when it comes to an STI test. Understandably so – it's free, professional, and easily accessible. However, the GGD is not accessible to everyone. And for those who are eligible, waiting times can sometimes be too long. Fortunately, there are good alternatives.

More and more people are choosing to get tested through an independent laboratory – anonymously, quickly, and from home. One of the providers that collaborates with a certified lab for this purpose is Stop Soa.

When are you not eligible for testing at the GGD?

The GGD offers free STI tests, but only for people who belong to a so-called risk group. This includes people with multiple partners, men who have sex with men (MSM), or people who have received an STI notification from a partner.

Do you fall outside of these categories? Then you will be referred to your GP. And that's where the disadvantages begin:

• The consultation is free, but the laboratory costs are not – these can amount to €110–€180 for a basic package
• Your test will be registered in your medical file, which is not always desirable
• The costs will be deducted from your excess
• You sometimes have to wait weeks for an appointment or results

What is an independent laboratory?

An independent laboratory is a certified medical institution that performs STI analyses – using the same methods as the GGD or the hospital, but without the bureaucracy. You don't need a doctor's referral and don't have to wait for anything.

Providers like Stop Soa collaborate with such a certified lab. You order a test kit online, take a sample yourself at home, and send it back for free. The lab analyzes the test, and you receive the results digitally – anonymously and quickly.

What are the advantages?

• ✅ No waiting time – ordered before 3 PM, shipped the same day
• ✅ Completely anonymous – nothing is shared with your GP or insurer
• ✅ Results within 24–48 hours after receipt by the lab
• ✅ No appointment needed – test when it suits you
• ✅ Neutral packaging – no one sees what's in the box or for whom it's intended
• ✅ Wide range – individual tests and complete packages

Which STIs can you get tested for?

Through Stop Soa, you can choose individual tests or combination packages:

Unsure which test you need? On stopsoa.nl, you'll find an overview per STI with explanations of symptoms, risk groups, and testing times.

Is it as reliable as the GGD?

Yes. Independent laboratories use the same clinically validated methods as hospitals and the GGD. The results are just as reliable – and in many cases, come back faster.

Important note: always use a provider that collaborates with a certified laboratory. Stop Soa works with lab-validated tests and processes all data strictly confidentially.

Who is this the right choice for?

Testing through an independent lab is particularly suitable if you:

• Do not fall within the GGD target group, but still want certainty
• Want quick clarity, without waiting
• Value anonymity
• Test regularly because you have multiple partners
• Feel uncomfortable visiting your GP or the GGD

So, GGD or an independent party for an STI test?

The GGD remains a valuable institution, but it is not the most suitable option for everyone. An independent laboratory – accessible through providers like Stop Soa – offers the same reliability, but with more convenience, speed, and privacy.

Hesitating? Just get tested. Certainty is always better than guessing.

👉 View the test offerings on stopsoa.nl

This information is intended for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. If you have complaints or persistent doubts, always consult a doctor or nurse.