LetsGetChecked Reviews: Should you take their tests?

LetsGetChecked offers a generous array of well-equipped and easy-to-use at-home testing kits -- with one of the most comprehensive STD panels available -- and they continue to expand their offerings. The company delivers results quickly and uses advanced testing methods and trusted labs for accurate results.

Before the complexities of modern medicine, doctors used to make house calls. You could get a physical, have an injury looked at, and even diagnose an infectious disease without leaving the house. Today, at-home testing brings some of that convenience back, allowing patients to find out everything from their sexual health to their risk for diabetes in a matter of days.

Founded in 2014, LetsGetChecked offers safe and accurate at-home test kits that cover a whole host of medical questions. Their varied test lineup can identify biomarkers for cardiovascular health, digestive health, fertility, and metabolic health, as well as STDs and cancer precursors. The company has a reputation for scientific integrity, and they perform all of their tests in the same labs used by clinics and healthcare facilities around the country.

After thoroughly testing the kits LetsGetChecked has to offer, we’ve broken them down here so you can find out which one is right for you and know what to expect from the process.

To evaluate a complex company like LetsGetChecked, we have to look at a lot of variables. Most notably, we paid attention to accuracy, cost, speed, test and material quality, and customer care. Our testers’ experiences weigh heavily throughout our evaluation process.

Accuracy

9.0/10

The accuracy of a given test depends on a lot of variables. For example, if you suspect you may have celiac disease but haven’t eaten gluten for a year, your body likely won’t have the antibodies needed to confirm a diagnosis. False positives and negatives aren’t unheard of, but LetsGetChecked does just about everything they can to ensure the highest degree of accuracy possible.

It’s also true that simple positive/negative tests need to be more accurate than tests whose results fall into a range. If your HbA1c comes in just below the threshold for pre-diabetes, you might not seek medication, but you would likely change your diet. On the other hand, if a herpes test comes back with a false negative, you’d risk spreading the disease to others.

STD tests are among the most urgent positive/negative tests, and for these, LetsGetChecked utilizes NAAT PCR tests and electrochemiluminescence arrays whenever possible. These have a significant degree of accuracy without requiring a high concentration of a given analyte in your sample. That means you’re more likely to get more accurate results than you would from a simple culture.

LetsGetChecked utilizes labs in the US that are CLIA-certified and CAP-accredited, meaning that they adhere to the same stringent standards as any other major testing facility in the medical industry. The results our testers received went into a fair amount of detail, providing specific level measurements for certain biomarkers where appropriate.

Cost

8.4/10

LetsGetChecked offers prices on most of their tests that sit right around the middle of the market for similar services offered by their competitors. Standard shipping is free, and express shipping options are available for a nominal upcharge.

While they don’t offer the least expensive tests out there, LetsGetChecked is still among the best options for at-home testing. The reasons are twofold: firstly, they don’t skimp on materials at any testing phase to pass down savings at the cost of your health. And secondly, you can lower your cost further by subscribing to a test you might need to take every three months or so. This arrangement is ideal for prediabetics who want to watch their HbA1c or anyone who has a healthy, active sex life.

A subscription will typically knock 30% off the cost of a recurring test, but you don’t have to subscribe to save. You can also utilize the promo code for Innerbody Research readers, INNERBODY25. That will knock 25% off the price of your test, but you can’t apply it to a subscription order.

Speed

8.8/10

Almost everything about the LetsGetChecked experience happens quickly. A standard shipping order gets your tests to your door within 5-7 days. Our testers received theirs in under 48 hours. Many tests have instructions that advise you not to collect a sample too late in the day or on the weekend. That will help ensure your sample arrives as fresh as possible. If you choose to pay for expedited shipping, you may need to arrange for a pickup or a dropoff at a convenient location.

LetsGetChecked notifies you that your test has arrived at the lab, and you typically receive your results within 2-5 days from that point. Our testers received their results, on average, about 55 hours after dropping them off for shipping, and just 32 hours after arriving at the lab. A registered nurse will reach out to you if your results require further consultation, often the same day that your results are ready.

Test and material quality

8.7/10

LetsGetChecked uses materials that are right in line with what you’d see inside a professional clinic. The packaging and instructions make the process easy to understand and execute. There’s a convenient labeling area on the underside of the box lid to provide vital information to the lab, as well as a barcode scanning system for sample tracking that safeguards your identity.

Collection materials are also top-notch. Their lancets for drawing blood samples are as comfortable as possible, with a good grip and reliable skin penetration. Some of our testers proved to be better at bleeding than others, but all reported effectiveness and ease of use. Instead of delivering your urine sample directly into the included tube, you receive a large, plastic-lined cardboard carton for the initial collection and a long plastic pipette to transfer your urine into the sample tube without the risk of spilling. You’ll find that degree of thoughtfulness in just about every kit.

Customer care

9.3/10

LetsGetChecked delivers some of the most considerate care in the business. A registered nurse will contact you directly in most positive tests for STDs or ailments like cancer or diabetes. They can take you through the next steps, connect you with physicians in your area, and even provide you with home delivery of free medication for various issues.

Calling the company is also a pleasure. Their representatives answered all of our calls in a matter of seconds; we never even got to hear the hold music. They were exceptionally friendly, and their knowledge base is impressive. Different reps we spoke to were able to speak to complicated medical testing questions (like the complete lab methodology of their herpes blood and urine tests) with the authority and comprehension of the lab techs themselves.

LetsGetChecked communicates with you throughout the process. They provide emails with links to tracking information from the distribution center to your home and from your home to the lab. They also send email and text alerts when any of the tests you take has results ready to view.

Over the past two decades, Innerbody Research has helped tens of millions of readers like you make more informed decisions to live healthier lives. We extensively test each health service we review.

Our team has spent over 163 hours testing and researching LetsGetChecked and its close competitors in order to give you an unbiased exploration of your at-home testing options, free of marketing jargon or gimmicks. Through a thorough and deliberate approach to every product we encounter, we evaluate services based on adherence to quality, the latest medical evidence and health standards, and a simple question: would we buy the product or service ourselves if it weren’t part of our job, and would we recommend it to family and friends?

Additionally, this review of LetsGetChecked, like all health-related content on this website, was thoroughly vetted by one or more members of our Medical Review Board for accuracy.

LetsGetChecked is a health insights platform that partners with laboratories in the US and the UK to provide their customers with an accurate look at anything from sexual health to cardiovascular wellness. They’re an ideal choice for anyone who might be embarrassed to seek care for STDs and other sensitive ailments in person and for those who want answers to health questions that won’t end up on their medical records and potentially impact their insurance coverage.

Their testing breaks down into five distinct categories:

• Sexual Health, including various STD tests for things like gonorrhea, herpes, and HIV
• Women’s Health, including fertility tests and HPV screening
• Men’s Health, including hormone panels and prostate cancer screening
• General Wellness, including vitamin and mineral testing and some cancer screenings
• Covid-19, including tests for individuals and businesses or schools

It’s important to note that any test — whether administered at home or in a doctor’s office — isn’t going to be perfect. Performing the test yourself is usually pretty easy, but it does introduce an element of untrained human error. If you get a negative result but still present with known symptoms of a disorder, please contact your physician directly. And if you get a positive result, LetsGetChecked can pair you with a nurse who will take you through the next steps in acquiring treatment.

The entire process, from seeking out a test to acquiring your results, is impressively easy. Here’s how the basic steps will unfold.

Finding a test

Navigating the LetsGetChecked website is a simple affair. Drop menus at the top of the page lead you to their common testing categories. If you don’t see what you need or you want a more visual interface, you can click on “See All Tests” in any category. That brings you to a page with a silhouette of Da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man, whose various body parts lead you to specific tests.

Once you’ve found the test or tests you want, you can decide whether you want just the one or a subscription that will deliver the tests to your door regularly. Remember, though, that you can’t combine the INNERBODY25 promo code with a subscription, so you might stand to save more money by reordering manually.

Your test will arrive within five business days, and you can get on to sample collection. Our testers put their orders in late on a Monday afternoon and received their tests in the mail around midday Wednesday — less than 48 hours later.

Submitting your sample

Submitting a swab, urine sample, or blood sample for testing with LetsGetChecked is fast and convenient. Click on the “Activate Test” button at the top of the LetsGetChecked website to register your kit and log into your account. Here you will enter the codes printed on the inner label of your test kit. After that, you will have to answer a couple of health questions before registration is complete.

Most LetsGetChecked tests require a small blood sample. You should collect these samples in the morning (before 9:00 a.m.) and before eating. All the equipment needed to collect this sample comes in your testing kit. To increase blood flow prior to a finger-prick test, use warm water when washing your hands, and leave them under the running tap for an extra 30 seconds or so. There are videos on the company website outlining how to perform sample collection and a list of FAQs.

LetsGetChecked advises you not to collect your sample after a Wednesday, as Thursday is the latest day in the week you can send it in — otherwise, the sample may not reach the lab before the weekend. Do not mail your sample later than Thursday morning or over the weekend.

Once you have collected your sample, place it into the biohazard bag provided, and return it to the box. Fill out the inner lid sticker of the box with the required information. Place the box in the prepaid shipping envelope and send it back on the same day you collect the sample. You will have to arrange a pickup location for express shipping or drop it off at a designated UPS dropoff point.

Getting your results

When your results are ready, you will receive an email directing you to your LetsGetChecked dashboard. Nurses are available to answer any questions you have about the results themselves.

If a positive result requires additional medical consultation, one of these nurses will reach out to you directly. Many patients report phone calls coming from nurses before they even saw the email that their results were in. The nurses can refer you to specialists when necessary and provide you with prescriptions for confirmed ailments that LetsGetChecked will deliver to your door for free. We could not evaluate this feature for ourselves as none of our testers’ results warranted additional consultation.

LetsGetChecked accepts the following forms of payment: most major credit cards, Apple Pay, PayPal, and prepaid gift cards issued by Visa, Mastercard, or American Express. You can also pay with an HSA/FSA card. LetsGetChecked does not currently accept insurance.

If you require routine testing, you have the option to subscribe and receive most tests every 3, 6, or 12 months for additional savings and convenience. LetsGetChecked delivers your subscriptions automatically, and you may cancel at any time.

Subscription savings:

• Every three months: save 30%
• Every six months: save 20%
• Every 12 months: save 15%

Note that you cannot combine subscription savings with the "INNERBODY25" promo code, which is good for 25% off any home testing kits.

LetsGetChecked states that they are highly committed to protecting your privacy and that the testing process is completely confidential. Test results are password protected and only accessible to you. You can choose to share them with whomever you wish, and we encourage you to share abnormal results with your doctor. Your name will not appear anywhere on your testing kit when you send it to the lab for analysis, where a barcoding system organizes all the samples. LetsGetChecked will never share your data with a third party without your explicit consent, except when necessary to fulfill your order.

The number of LetsGetChecked staff who can access your data is limited. SSL technology encrypts any payment information shared with the company. If you contact them by email, they may keep records of that correspondence. They may also collect and store personal information, including your name, billing/delivery address, contact information, and any other information you share with the company.

For added privacy, if you download your results from the website, they will save on your computer with a seemingly meaningless file name. This naming system helps disguise files from anyone who shares your computer, but make sure to quickly check your download folder after you fetch them, as the odd naming makes them hard to locate with a search.

The privacy policy states that you have a right to a copy of any personal data the company has concerning you, via your account’s privacy settings. You also have the right to correct any inaccurate personal data or request that the company deletes your data free of charge.

LetsGetChecked has several sexual health tests available individually or in thoughtful combinations. The chlamydia and gonorrhea tests come bundled, for example, because those infections often occur together. Other STD panels are convenient and economical choices for customers who want quick, comprehensive insight into their sexual health. If you know you’ve had contact with a particular STD, testing for that single STD may be a more economical way to go. But the Basic 3 or Standard 5 packages are the most common choices for routine STD testing, and the Complete 8 is the most comprehensive offering for US customers.

Herpes test, simplex 1 and 2

Herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) causes periodic oral cold sores, but infected patients can experience no symptoms whatsoever. Most patients pass on the virus while a cold sore is present through kissing or sharing towels, water bottles, or cups.

Herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2) is also called genital herpes, as it causes sores around the genital regions. Once again, it is possible to be infected with HSV-2 and experience no symptoms. In this case, you can pass the virus on to someone else even when you have no symptoms and practice safe sex.

The Herpes Test [$89.25 with promo code] tests for herpes simplex virus-1 and 2 and requires a blood sample. LetsGetChecked labs use an ELISA test capable of reliably differentiating between HSV-1 and HSV-2, which is a vital distinction when up to 40% of HSV-1 carriers can remain asymptomatic, and as their course of treatment can vary significantly from that of an HSV-2 patient. For utmost accuracy, you should wait until 12 weeks after your last sexual contact to test for herpes. You can learn how LetsGetCheck's herpes test compares to the competition in our guide to at home herpes testing.

Viruses like herpes are almost impossible to cure, but there are treatments and medications to manage outbreaks of sores and other symptoms. It’s especially important to know your herpes status if you are pregnant, as herpes can pass to a newborn (neonatal herpes simplex), which can be fatal for the baby. Bleeding sores from HSV-2 can also increase your risk of passing on or contracting Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) when engaging in vaginal, oral, or anal sex.

Hepatitis B & C test

The Hepatitis B & C Test [$59.25 with promo code] checks for two serious liver infections caused by viruses. If left untreated, they can both cause permanent and potentially life-threatening damage to your liver. Luckily, it is now possible to treat or cure infections in most cases. Infections may be asymptomatic for many years, with affected persons only realizing they have hepatitis when the liver has already been damaged, sometimes significantly. Patients often spread the virus through blood-to-blood contact, and rarely through unprotected sex. The CDC recommends that all adults between the age of 18 and 79 undergo testing for hepatitis C at least once, as should people with specific medical conditions and people in high-risk groups, such as current or former IV drug users.

LetsGetChecked utilizes a blood sample and a highly accurate electrochemiluminescence test to determine the presence of hepatitis and differentiate between the two types.

You should wait at least 12 weeks after a potential exposure before taking a hepatitis B & C test, but know that it can take up to six months for an infection to be detectable. If this test comes back positive, get re-tested three months after your first test to confirm the positive result.

HPV test

HPV (human papillomavirus) is a widespread virus that often generates no symptoms. There are over 150 different types of HPV. Many have been strongly implicated in the development of genital warts (HPV6 and HPV11), cervical cancer (HPV16 and HPV18), and other cancers. Doctors consider HPV strains high-risk if they may cause lesions and cancers. The LetsGetChecked HPV Test [$66.75 with promo code] tests for 14 high-risk HPV genotypes, giving you detailed insight into your risk of developing cervical cancer.

The test requires a vaginal swab and is particularly relevant for women over the age of 30. You should receive results within 2-5 days after the lab gets your sample, although it can take up to 10 days.

For men, many of whom carry HPV but will never know it, testing is rarely practical. The disease is simply too difficult to detect accurately in male samples. Still, oral HPV infections can lead to cancers of the mouth and throat, so if you’ve had sexual contact with someone known to have HPV, be on the lookout for potential symptoms like long-lasting sore throat, hoarseness, pain when swallowing, swollen lymph nodes, and unexplained weight loss. See your doctor if any of these persist.

Simple 2 (chlamydia and gonorrhea)

The Simple 2 Test [$74.25 with promo code] checks for chlamydia and gonorrhea. These are two of the most common sexually transmitted diseases in the US, and people often contract them together. Infection with either can have serious health consequences if not caught and treated early, but both are easily curable in most cases.

You should wait a minimum of two weeks after a potential exposure before taking a chlamydia and gonorrhea test. If this test comes back positive, get re-tested two weeks after your treatment concludes to ensure the infection has completely cleared. Unfortunately, the LetsGetChecked Simple 2 Test will not tell you the specific area of your body that is infected (genital, anal, or oral infection). However, this will only be relevant to some customers, as treatment for all three infection types is similar.

Basic 3 (chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis)

The LetsGetChecked Basic 3 Test [$89.25 with promo code] includes tests for both STDs covered by the Simple 2 package (see above), along with trichomoniasis. Trich is another of the most common curable STDs in the United States, and over 70% of affected people never develop any symptoms. A protozoan parasite called trichomonas causes trichomoniasis, and infection is more common in women than in men. Trich testing is very accurate for women, but slightly less accurate for men, who are more likely to receive false-positive or false-negative results.

You should wait a minimum of four weeks after a potential exposure before taking this test. If this test comes back positive, get re-tested two weeks after your treatment ends to ensure the infection has completely cleared.

Both the Simple 2 and Basic 3 tests rely on urine samples to run a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT), which is highly accurate.

Standard 5

The Standard 5 Test [$111.75 with promo code] includes tests for five STDs: chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, HIV, and syphilis.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is the virus that causes AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). Once you become infected with HIV, you will always carry the virus and must continue antiretroviral treatment for life. An HIV diagnosis would be devastating to many people, but diagnosis with this virus is far from the death sentence it once was. It is now possible to bring HIV infections under control, giving patients a life expectancy close to the rest of the population. The CDC recommends HIV screening for everyone aged 13-64. Testing is essential for those who engage in unprotected sex, IV drug users, those who have come into contact with blood products, or people born to HIV-positive mothers.

LetsGetChecked labs employ an electrochemiluminescence array to reliably detect the presence of HIV-1 and HIV-2 antibodies, as well as the p24 antigen. The test’s sensitivity makes for a higher rate of false positives, so the company recommends a second test to confirm a diagnosis.

Syphilis is an STD caused by bacteria. It can cause severe and even life-threatening medical issues if left untreated. Patients will often have no symptoms in the early stages. Luckily, a short course of antibiotics can cure it. Testing is a good idea if you have engaged in unprotected oral, vaginal, or anal sex with someone who may be infected; have come into contact with an infected sore; or are an IV drug user.

LetsGetChecked uses a treponemal antibody test to detect antibodies to the bacteria that cause syphilis (Treponema pallidum). A positive result requires an additional, non-treponemal test to confirm the diagnosis. Either test can serve as an initial screening for syphilis, but a positive result from one always requires retesting with the other.

Leading with the treponemal test is preferable because treponemal antibodies remain in the system for life. The followup non-treponemal test can detect antibodies that typically remain in the body for no longer than three years after a patient clears the virus. The body can generate non-treponemal antibodies in response to other stimuli than syphilis, but your doctor can be confident in a diagnosis with both test results on hand.

You should wait a minimum of 12 weeks from the time of your last sexual contact before using the Standard 5 package to get tested, as many STDs take time before they become detectable in the blood (up to six months). In this case, it is an HIV infection that can require more time to detect.

Complete 8

The LetsGetChecked Complete 8 [$186.75 with promo code] is the most comprehensive STD panel the company provides. It includes testing for chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, HIV, syphilis, ureaplasma, Gardnerella, and mycoplasma.

Gardnerella is a potential cause of bacterial vaginosis and so is more relevant to women than men, though men can also contract and spread it. Mycoplasma and ureaplasma are classes of free-living organisms that lack cell walls. They can exist in a healthy urogenital tract without causing harm or symptoms, but they may spur several conditions like postpartum fevers, pelvic inflammatory disease, and even congenital pneumonia.

As with the Standard 5 package, you should wait a minimum of 12 weeks from the time of your last sexual contact before using the Complete 8 package to get tested. Many STDs take time before they become detectable in the blood — sometimes up to six months after the initial exposure.

Both the Standard 5 and Complete 8 STD panels require blood and urine samples.

Female hormone test

Several hormones help regulate a woman’s fertility, and imbalances in these hormones can result in everything from unexpected weight gain to irregular menstruation. The Female Hormone Test [$96.75 with promo code] targets women interested in starting families and those concerned about their fertility or polycystic ovary syndrome. The package evaluates follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), prolactin, and estradiol levels in the blood.

This test requires a small blood sample, and patients must take it on day three of their menstrual cycle. Do not take hormonal contraceptives (e.g., the pill) or other hormonal medications before taking this test, as they can affect the results.

The results of this test are in no way diagnostic, as individuals’ baseline hormone levels may differ. Discuss any worrisome results with a clinician.

Ovarian reserve test

The Ovarian Reserve Test [$104.75 with promo code] measures AMH (anti-Mullerian hormone) levels in the blood to estimate ovarian reserve. Compared to the average for one’s age, AMH levels can roughly predict how many eggs you have left. This count does not tell you how likely you are to achieve a successful pregnancy from one of these eggs, but it can help with family planning.

Abnormally low levels of AMH may indicate a lower number of viable remaining eggs. Abnormally high levels can be an indicator of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The test requires a blood sample, and hormonal contraceptives may impact results.

Progesterone test

The Progesterone Test [$66.75 with promo code] can tell you whether or not ovulation has occurred by day 21 of your menstrual cycle. Elevated progesterone on day 21 indicates a regular cycle, which may allow you to better time your attempts at conception. A low 21-day progesterone level suggests that you did not release an egg this cycle and would not have been able to get pregnant. It may also be a sign of an irregular cycle, and additional progesterone tests taken between days 18 and 24 may help you identify your most fertile days.

Progesterone levels should remain high in a pregnant woman since it plays a crucial role in preparing the uterus for implantation and maintaining that space for the egg to thrive. Low levels of progesterone during pregnancy can indicate miscarriage risk.

The test requires a blood sample, and results are usually ready in five days.

PSA test

Prostate cancer is one of the leading causes of death in males around the globe, as it is difficult to catch in the early stages and often goes undiagnosed until it has become quite severe. The LetsGetChecked PSA Test [$74.25 with promo code] evaluates the levels of prostate-specific antigen in your blood, which both normal and cancerous prostate cells produce.

A high level of PSA can indicate cancer but can also indicate many other harmless conditions, so a positive result is not an immediate cause for alarm. If you test positive, LetsGetChecked will refer you to a urologist or GP for further testing. This blood test is particularly relevant for men over the age of 50 or those with a first-degree relative who has had prostate cancer.

Testosterone test

Secreted by the testes, testosterone is a sex hormone that is essential for the development of muscle tissue and male reproductive tissue and for promoting secondary sexual characteristics such as the growth of body hair. Low testosterone levels can cause erectile dysfunction, impacted sex drive, infertility, and even cardiovascular disease. Reasons for low testosterone levels include obesity, testicular injury, chemotherapy or radiation treatment, genetic abnormalities, diabetes, hemochromatosis, or the use of performance-enhancing drugs or supplements.

Testosterone is also produced in low levels by the ovaries, and abnormal hormone levels in women can cause a range of symptoms, but LetsGetChecked only includes the Testosterone Test [$51.75 with promo code] in their men’s health products.

Male hormone tests

Several hormones play essential roles in regulating a man’s overall health. Imbalances in these hormones can result in a range of problems. LetsGetChecked offers three male hormone test packages in addition to the basic testosterone test. They give an overview of a man’s hormonal health with progressively higher levels of specificity. Common reasons to take these tests include the development of erectile dysfunction, enlarged or tender breast tissue, increase in abdominal fat or decrease in muscle mass, a reduction in libido, or fertility problems. These tests cannot diagnose any specific conditions or pinpoint the causes of any abnormal results. However, they can flag potential issues that may require further testing or rule out hormonal imbalance as a cause of any ongoing symptoms.

• Male Hormone Test [$104.25 with promo code] includes an analysis of testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), and free androgen index
• Male Hormone Advanced [$134.25 with promo code] adds prolactin and estradiol to the primary hormone test
• Male Hormone Complete [$149.25 with promo code] adds cortisol to the Hormone Advanced Test

Which test you choose depends mainly on your budget and symptoms. All LetsGetChecked men’s health tests require only a blood sample.

Thyroid and thyroid antibody test

The thyroid is an endocrine (hormone-secreting) gland in your neck with several functions, most notably regulating your metabolic rate. Thyroid disorders result in either excessively high or insufficient thyroid hormone production. This causes two different conditions: hypothyroidism, with symptoms including weight gain, hair loss, constipation, sensitivity to cold, and fatigue; and hyperthyroidism, with symptoms including weight loss, fast heart rate, sweating, diarrhea, and anxiety.

The LetsGetChecked Thyroid Test [$74.25 with promo code] evaluates thyroid function by analyzing three biomarkers: thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine (FT3), and free thyroxine (FT4). The more comprehensive Thyroid Antibody Test [$89.25 with promo code] adds thyroglobulin antibodies (TGAB), and thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPEX) to its analysis.

The main difference between the two kits is that the TGAB and TPEX antibody testing in the Thyroid Antibody Test can tell you whether your thyroid dysfunction is likely related to an autoimmune disorder. The basic Thyroid Test kit can tell you that there may be an issue with your thyroid but cannot tell you the cause. The test requires a small blood sample.

Colon cancer test

Colon cancer is common in both men and women. Like all cancers, it can be deadly if not caught early. The LetsGetChecked Colon Cancer Test [$51.75 with promo code] screens for the early stages of colon cancer by identifying tiny amounts of blood in your stool. A positive result does not mean you have cancer, as many other conditions or injuries can cause small amounts of blood in the stool.

If you test positive, LetsGetChecked will refer you to a gastroenterologist or your GP for further testing to determine the source of the blood. This test is particularly relevant for those over 50 and those with a first-degree relative who has had any form of colorectal cancer. LetsGetChecked provides you with a plastic collection stick, so you don’t have to get hands-on with your stool sample, which is a nice added consideration.

Essential vitamin test

The LetsGetChecked Essential Vitamin Test [$81.75 with promo code] tests your levels of three key nutrients: vitamin D, vitamin B12, and vitamin E. A lack of vitamin D can decrease your body’s ability to absorb calcium. This has negative consequences for bone strength, the growth and development of teeth, and the prevention of osteoporosis. Several studies have also linked low vitamin D levels to the development of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which can manifest as fatigue, weakness, and depression.

Vitamin B12 is vital for nervous system maintenance and creating healthy new blood cells. Significant B12 deficiency can cause permanent damage to the brain and nervous system, with symptoms including fatigue, depression, memory problems, and breathlessness. It’s an ideal supplement for vegans and vegetarians whose diets often lack B12.

If you’ve ever had stitches, someone might have told you to use vitamin E topically to reduce scarring. That’s because vitamin E helps maintain healthy skin and eyes. It’s also excellent for the immune system, so if you’ve been getting sick a lot recently, it might be an important test to take.

Vitamin D test

The standalone Vitamin D Test [$66.75 with promo code] looks for Vitamin D deficiency, which is fairly common among those who live in the northern hemisphere. It can contribute to many health issues, including an overall predisposition to inflammatory responses, increasing your likelihood of developing more severe diseases.

In most cases, you can rectify vitamin D deficiency by increasing your time in the sun and your dietary vitamin D consumption or by taking supplements.

Both LetsGetChecked vitamin tests require a blood sample.

Micronutrient test

The Micronutrient Test [$149.25 with promo code] reveals your key vitamins and essential minerals levels, helping you detect any deficiencies where your diet might need a boost. This simple blood test measures your levels of vitamins D, B12, and E, as well as magnesium, copper, selenium, and zinc. Deficiencies in critical vitamins and minerals can cause fatigue, frequent illness, aches, hair loss, bone issues, and weakness.

Liver test

The liver is a large organ in the abdomen that performs many essential functions related to digestion, immunity, metabolism of toxins, and production of hormones and bile. The Liver Test [$74.25 with promo code] from LetsGetChecked analyzes total protein levels in addition to the levels of albumin, globulin, bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, gamma GT, and alanine transferase (ALT). In general, elevated enzyme or abnormally low protein levels may indicate acute or chronic liver disease.

Symptoms of liver disease include jaundice, loss of appetite, abdominal swelling, dark urine or pale stool, and vomiting. If you aren’t experiencing these and you don’t fall into a group at increased risk of liver disease, the test may not be necessary for you. Groups at increased risk include persons who drink alcohol frequently, have been diagnosed with hepatitis, use performance-enhancing drugs, have a family history of liver or gastrointestinal disease, have an eating disorder, or take medications that can harm the liver.

Cholesterol test

Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death in almost all western countries. Early identification and monitoring of high cholesterol can allow you to make lifestyle changes or start medications that may significantly improve your prognosis. The LetsGetChecked Cholesterol Test [$59.25 with promo code] offers comprehensive insight into the overall health of your heart. It includes an evaluation of your total cholesterol levels and triglycerides, HDL (high-density lipoprotein/good cholesterol), LDL (low-density lipoprotein/bad cholesterol), and HDL as a percentage of total cholesterol.

This test is particularly relevant for people with family histories of high cholesterol, heart disease, stroke, or diabetes; people who are overweight, smoke, or do not exercise; and those who take cholesterol medication. This test requires only a blood sample.

CRP test

The CRP Test [$51.75 with promo code] evaluates levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) in your blood. The liver produces CRP in response to inflammation often before other symptoms occur. High levels of CRP can indicate an infection, chronic inflammatory disorders (such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or vasculitis), autoimmune disorders, a traumatic injury, coronary heart disease, or cancer. This test requires a small blood sample.

There are numerous possible reasons for CRP levels to be temporarily elevated, many of which are relatively harmless. The results of this test cannot tell you the cause of inflammation, however. If you do receive abnormal results, seek further medical advice.

Iron test

The LetsGetChecked Iron Test [$74.25 with promo code] measures the level of iron in your blood, your total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), your levels of ferritin, and your transferrin saturation. Iron is an essential component of hemoglobin, the molecule that carries oxygen around our bodies and gives red blood cells their distinctive color. If there is not enough iron available in the body, iron-deficiency anemia may develop. Fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and cold hands characterize this condition. An unusual symptom can be a craving for non-food substances such as dirt or ice.

There are a number of reasons you may lack iron, including insufficient dietary intake, poor absorption from food sources, or blood loss. Menstrual cycles cause women to be especially susceptible to low iron levels. Those with disorders affecting nutrient absorption, vegetarians or people who do not eat red meat, and those with HIV are also at risk.

The iron test requires a blood sample.

Cortisol test

The LetsGetChecked Cortisol Test [$74.25 with promo code] measures the amount of steroid hormone released by the adrenal gland in response to stress or low blood-glucose concentration. This gland performs many functions, like increasing blood sugar levels, decreasing inflammation, regulating metabolism, and maintaining electrolyte balance.

During pregnancy, cortisol is also important for the maturation of the lungs in a developing fetus. A number of different medical conditions relating to either the adrenal or the pituitary gland can cause abnormal cortisol levels, such as Addison’s disease, hypopituitarism, Cushing’s disease, or other tumors that affect cortisol production. An abnormal result from this blood test will require further analysis by a medical professional, as the report will not tell you the cause of the increased hormone level.

Kidney test

Your kidneys filter your blood to remove waste materials through the urine, along with several other important functions. The LetsGetChecked Kidney Test [$74.25 with promo code] evaluates the health of your kidneys by analyzing levels of urea, creatinine, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Abnormally high urea and creatinine levels, along with a low eGFR, can indicate acute or chronic kidney disease, which can be very serious. To explore all of your testing options, visit our comprehensive guide to at-home kidney tests.

Symptoms of kidney disease include reduced urine flow or increased urination frequency, swelling of the appendages, nausea, loss of appetite, sleep disturbances, or blood in the urine. If you have none of these symptoms and don’t fall into a group at increased risk of kidney disease, this blood test is probably not necessary for you. Groups at increased risk include those who take anti-inflammatory medication, consume a high-protein diet, have high blood pressure or diabetes, get persistent urinary tract infections or kidney stones, and those who have a family history of these conditions.

Celiac test

Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder caused by an abnormal immune response to gluten, a protein found in wheat and other grains such as rye and barley. The most common symptoms are gastrointestinal issues such as bloating, diarrhea, and malabsorption of vitamins, along with the other symptoms resulting from vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Studies indicate that a number of genetic factors increase your likelihood of developing celiac disease, so this test may be of particular interest to those who have first-degree relatives with the condition.

The LetsGetChecked Celiac Test [$89.25 with promo code] analyzes two different biomarkers: tissue transglutaminase (tTG), and endomysial antibodies (EMA). Low levels of tissue transglutaminase or high levels of endomysial antibodies can indicate celiac disease. However, diagnosis of celiac disease is notably tricky. The biomarkers covered by this blood test cannot diagnose all forms of the disease, so the test may not provide you with a definitive answer. Complicating matters further, a gluten-free diet will often cause the levels of these biomarkers to normalize and for any damage done to the intestines to begin healing itself.

Suppose you’re already on a gluten-free diet, but your symptoms beforehand were generally mild. In that case, you may need to consume gluten again for several weeks before testing to see accurate results. Be sure to consult with your doctor or a dietician before returning gluten to your diet.

Diabetes test

Diabetes is a common yet serious condition that results when the body loses control of blood sugar levels. Many people have blood sugar levels higher than the healthy range but not yet high enough to diagnose diabetes. This condition is known as pre-diabetes.

The LetsGetChecked Diabetes Test [$36.25 with promo code] measures your levels of HbA1c to evaluate your blood glucose level. A normal result will land between 4 and 5.6%. Doctors consider readings between 5.7 and 6.4% to be prediabetic and anything over 6.5% to be sufficient for a diabetes diagnosis. If your results land anywhere at or above the prediabetic range, it is a good idea to make specific lifestyle changes to reduce your risk of developing the condition, including exercise and diet modifications.

Anyone who is overweight, has diabetes symptoms, or has a family history of Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes should seriously consider this blood test.

Diabetes and heart test

If you’d like a more comprehensive test that also assesses your cardiac health, opt for the Diabetes and Heart Test [$66.75 with promo code]. In addition to the above diabetes test, it also measures indicators of pre-diabetes and heart health: cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and HDL percentage of total cholesterol.

Mineral test

It’s vital to maintain optimum levels of minerals to allow your body’s systems to function correctly. Mineral deficiencies are expected for most adults, at least occasionally. You can usually treat low levels of minerals before you experience serious symptoms, and this blood test can help maintain your overall health.

The LetsGetChecked Mineral Test [$111.75 with promo code] measures your copper, selenium, zinc, and magnesium levels. If your levels are low, treatment is often a simple tweak to what you eat or a dietary supplement containing the mineral(s) you need. In other instances, you will want to talk to your doctor if it’s not clear why you are deficient in certain minerals.

Omega-3 test

Omega-3 fatty acids are an essential part of a healthy balanced diet and may positively affect heart health. Omega-3 index testing can help you identify an opportunity to make dietary changes that could improve your overall heart and brain health. The LetsGetChecked Omega-3 Test [$74.25 with promo code] analyzes two specific fatty acids: Omega-3 and Omega-6.

Omega-3 is the good fat found in high quantities in oily fish, nuts, and seeds. Omega-6, though essential in small amounts, is thought of as the not-so-good fat, as it can cause increases in inflammation, cholesterol, and blood pressure.

This blood test can help you kickstart a healthy eating regimen, and if your Omega-3 and Omega-6 levels do fall within unhealthy ranges, you should work toward a more balanced diet.

Lyme disease test

The Lyme Disease Test [$89.25 with promo code] can detect a serious bacterial infection that you can contract from deer tick bites. The first sign of infection is a distinctive target-shaped rash or painless area of redness that develops around the bite location within about a week. If you develop such a rash around a bite, testing for Lyme disease is a priority. However, the rash may not show up in every case. Often people simply don’t notice it. So it is important to be aware of the other symptoms of Lyme, which include fever, headache, and feeling tired and weak. These symptoms can occur anywhere between three and 30 days from the bite.

More severe long-term symptoms can develop if left untreated, including Bell’s palsy (loss of movement on one side of the face), meningitis, joint pains, and heart palpitations. The illness can eventually cause paralysis of the lower limbs and neurological issues, which may be permanent. Unfortunately, Lyme disease is notoriously difficult to diagnose. This blood test looks for Borrelia IgM and IgG antibodies, which are markers of infection. We recommend going to your doctor if you have reason to believe you may have contracted Lyme, and especially if you receive a positive result from this test.

Coronavirus test

Since 2020, the Coronavirus, or COVID-19, has been at the top of everyone’s health concerns. The LetsGetChecked Coronavirus Test [$81.75 with promo code] detects SARS-CoV-2 with a lower nasal swab kit, giving you results in 24-72 hours. You receive an official lab report, which you may need to prove a negative result for travel or particular events.

Despite the undeniable efficacy and safety of vaccines, breakthrough infections are still possible. And while most of those breakthrough infections are asymptomatic, infected persons can still transmit the disease. If you’ve been exposed to anyone known to have COVID-19, or you plan to travel or visit anyone unvaccinated or especially vulnerable, you should get tested first.

LetsGetChecked also offers organizational COVID testing and can provide you with bulk quantities of tests for businesses, universities, and more.

LetsGetChecked has a few competitors that offer similar services to attain test results for everything from STDs to vitamin deficiencies. There are some nuanced differences in subscription models, lab work, and available tests that might influence you in one direction or another. Our testers found LetsGetChecked to have the edge over much of the competition in ease of use, customer consideration, and cost.

MyLAB Box

This company uses laboratories that boast the same certifications as those that LetsGetChecked employs. More of their tests come exclusively as bundles, like their weight loss test or their anti-aging test. That can make certain standalone products like a cortisol test more expensive to acquire than the single test through LetsGetChecked. That said, they do offer more tests overall than LetsGetChecked, including drug screenings, but certain tests are more limited. MyLAB Box can only test for HSV-2, for example.

Everlywell

This company has recently made a big push toward a subscription structure in which $24.99/month gets you access to one qualifying test and 20% off other tests on their website. This makes them a comparatively less expensive option than LetsGetChecked for most testing categories, but like myLAB Box, they have some noteworthy selection differences.

Everlywell doesn’t offer a standalone herpes test or any test for Hepatitis B. They also have several tests not included among LetsGetChecked’s selection, like broad food sensitivity and allergy tests. The efficacy of food sensitivity and allergy tests is debatable, so it’s hard to say whether the inclusion or exclusion of these should count for or against a given company.

STDCheck.com

This site is worth mentioning for its superior HIV testing and focus on sexual health. It differs significantly from the others mentioned here in that you don’t collect your own sample at home. Instead, you order a kit and take that kit to one of 4,500 test centers in the US. There, practitioners will take your sample and run the necessary tests. The advantage here is that you can get your results a few days faster than the competition, but you might want to look elsewhere if you don’t live within a convenient radius of a testing center.