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Non-Hormonal Birth Control

June 1, 2021 by Eve Leave a Comment

For many women, receiving ‘the pill’ for the first time is something like a rite of passage. However, birth control pills work by manipulating hormones and upsetting a woman’s natural rhythm. Some women aren’t comfortable with that for a whole variety of reasons.

There are many non-hormonal options when it comes to birth control. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s usually possible to find one that meets your needs. All of them have one crucial advantage over hormonal birth control methods, as they leave your body chemistry alone as much as possible.

We’re going to look at the non-hormonal birth control options to see which are safe and which have the highest success rate.

Key Takeaways

Behavioral methods of birth control are the least reliable.
The most reliable birth control method is sterilization
The most reliable, non-permanent birth control method is the copper IUD.
The copper IUD is also effective as emergency contraception.
Male condoms work best to prevent sexually transmitted infections.
Male condoms work best for preventing pregnancy when paired with other birth control methods.
All non-hormonal contraceptive methods have a risk of failure or side effects.

Non Hormonal Birth Control Options

Some hormone-free birth control methods are pretty common. Just about everyone has an embarrassing story about buying condoms, for example.

Many others aren’t as common or aren’t as popular as they once were. One reason the pill is so popular is that it’s a lot more convenient than fumbling for condoms mid-sexual encounter [1]. Frequently, the most effective method of birth control is the one you’ll use consistently and correctly.

When talking about the failure rate of birth control, health professionals may give two different figures. The first lists the failure rate of a method when it is used ideally, precisely as designed. The second gives the odds as observed in the field, where people may use a form of contraception incorrectly or inconsistently.

For men, non-hormonal methods are the only birth control methods available. Many people have tried to formulate male birth control pills without any success.

Barrier Methods

As the name implies, these methods use some type of barrier to prevent the sperm from meeting and fertilizing the egg [2]. The barrier can be either chemical or physical.

A barrier method may have to be put in shortly before sexual intercourse and removed shortly after. It’s generally not a good idea to leave a barrier method in place for an extended period.

Some barrier methods, such as a diaphragm or cervical cap, have been associated with toxic shock syndrome [3]. When barrier contraceptives are left in place for too long, an infection can develop. Toxic shock can be a complication of an infection and is very serious.

Both male and female condoms are considered barrier methods of contraception.

Male Condoms

A male condom is a tube that is closed on one end. A condom slips over an erect penis, forming a barrier between the penis and vagina, preventing sperm from entering the uterus.

Male condoms are considered the best way to prevent the transmission of STIs, as the barrier they form also works against viruses and bacteria.

When used in ideal circumstances, male condoms work 98% of the time. In real-world circumstances, 13 out of 100 women will become pregnant when using a condom on its own [4].

Adding another form of birth control, like spermicide, can reduce the odds of an unexpected pregnancy. Some male condoms come with spermicide.

Although not the least successful contraceptive method, male condoms still failed to prevent a pregnancy in 18% of women

Latex is the most common material used. However, some people are allergic to a male latex condom, so condoms made from other materials are also sold.

Diaphragms and Female Condoms

Though sometimes conflated, diaphragms and female condoms are actually two different barrier methods of birth control.

A female condom can be thought of as an internal condom. They consist of a pouch, usually stiffened somewhat with rings, closed on one end. This sort of condom is inserted into the vagina with the open end remaining outside the vagina.

A diaphragm is similar. However, diaphragms are smaller and go entirely into the vagina. They are placed over the cervix to prevent sperm from traveling up into the uterus.

Both methods have to be put in place immediately before intercourse, which can be awkward. Both also have to be placed correctly in order to work well. As a result, both have a slightly higher rate of failure.

A condom for a woman will fail about 5 times out of 100 when used in ideal circumstances but will fail over 20% of the time in real-world use.

When using a diaphragm with spermicide, 6 out of 100 women in ideal circumstances will become pregnant. In the real world, 17 out of 100 will become pregnant.

Cervical cap

Cervical caps are very similar to a diaphragm. It’s a small device that fits over the cervix. A cervical cap should be used with a spermicide.

This form of birth control will fail about 9 times in 100 in ideal circumstances. In real-world use, it will fail about 14 out of 100 times.

Cervical Sponge

This method is sometimes also called a birth control sponge. It’s used similarly to a diaphragm in that it is placed over the cervix. A contraceptive sponge has spermicide on it, preventing sperm from fertilizing an egg.

As with a diaphragm, proper placement is essential. However, the advantage of the sponge is that it will continue to work for about 24 hours. You don’t need to take it out and reapply spermicide during that time.

A sponge will work about 90% of the time in ideal circumstances, though sponges are half as effective if you’ve already had children. In the real world, it works about 90% of the time.

Spermicides

While spermicides may come as creams, gels, or tablets, they are all usually some form of a compound called nonoxynol-9 [5]. It has been in use for over 30 years as a safe, effective spermicide.

As the name implies, it’s a chemical that damages sperm or otherwise prevents them from moving. In other words, spermicide kills sperm. Spermicides are frequently paired with other forms of birth control [6].

When used on its own in ideal circumstances, about 1 in 5 women will become pregnant. In the real world, a little over 1 in 4 women will end up becoming pregnant.

Behavioral Methods

Family planning may be a newer term, but it isn’t a new concept. Most methods of birth control, particularly hormonal birth control methods, were invented in the second half of the 20th century.

Natural family planning, also called natural birth control, is a term for a few different methods of non-hormonal birth control. These methods don’t depend on a barrier device like a condom. Instead, these methods work with the body’s natural rhythms or have the man attempt to avoid ejaculating inside the vagina entirely.

In general, these methods tend to have a higher failure rate.

Withdrawal (Pull Out Method)

This form of natural birth control is relatively straightforward. As a man reaches climax, he removes his penis, preventing pregnancy. The concept is clear, but the execution is sometimes tricky. This method relies largely on the self-control and experience of the man.

In ideal circumstances, only 4 out of 100 women will conceive when using the withdrawal method. In real-world cases, the odds of failure are about 20%.

Fertility Awareness Method

This method is also sometimes known as the rhythm method. It uses a variety of fertility awareness methods to track a woman’s menstrual period, allowing partners to avoid sex during fertile periods.

Fertility awareness is not an exact science. Women have to monitor their basal body temperature, which can be challenging. Some methods of detecting ovulation include testing cervical mucus, which can also be difficult. A woman’s cycle also may vary naturally. This method works best if a woman’s menstrual cycle is fairly regular.

At around -5 days before temperature rise, the chances of pregnancy increase steadily before declining rapidly

The success rate of this natural family planning method is about the same as other behavioral, non-hormonal birth control options. In ideal circumstances, 3 women out of 100 would become pregnant using this method to prevent pregnancy. In practice, it’s a little over 20%.

Outercourse

The name says it all. This method prevents pregnancy as, during outercourse, the penis doesn’t actually enter the vagina. In terms of birth control options, this method is preferable as even a short amount of penetration can lead to pregnancy. Additionally, there isn’t the element of self-control to consider.

In theory, this method of birth control should be 100% effective.

Copper IUD

A copper intrauterine device (IUD) is a t-shaped piece of plastic with a thin copper wire wrapped around it [7]. Strictly speaking, this method is drug and hormone-free. Instead, copper is toxic to sperm, preventing them from moving. As a result, they can’t find the egg and fertilize it.

Copper IUDs also have a second line of defense [8]. If an egg is fertilized, the copper in the IUD will make it more difficult to implant in the lining of the uterus.

It is also one of the most effective forms of emergency contraception available. If a copper IUD is inserted within 5 days of having unprotected sex, there is a 99.9% chance of preventing pregnancy. Additionally, because it’s an IUD, you don’t have to worry about misusing it.

A copper IUD can sometimes shift out of proper placement, becoming less effective. It has also been associated with increased cramping, pain, and a heavier period flow, particularly in the first few months. However, it will continue to work for over 10 years. Copper IUDs have also been linked to a higher risk of pelvic inflammatory disease [9][10].

Permanent Sterilization

Sterilization is the most extreme of the non-hormonal options for birth control. It involves a surgical procedure for both men and women. It is considered permanent.

Male Sterilization

In a vasectomy, the tubes that carry sperm are sealed [11]. While a man can still get an erection and climax, no sperm is ejaculated.

Vasectomies can be reversed. However, it requires another procedure. Both procedures come with risks of impotence or other problems. It can also affect free testosterone levels.

Female Sterilization

Female sterilization can happen in a couple of ways. With each, the egg is prevented from reaching the sperm or uterus. All of these options are permanent.

Tubal ligation may be the most common [12]. The fallopian tubes are sealed so that eggs can’t travel to the uterus.

Because the uterus and fallopian tubes have been severed, an egg that may already have been fertilized can’t implant itself in the uterine lining. Instead, it may implant itself in the lining of the fallopian tube. This condition, called an ectopic pregnancy, can’t be brought to term and poses serious risks to women’s health.

Another form is called bilateral salpingectomy, in which the ovaries are removed [13]. This is less often done as a method of contraception than to prevent cancer or treat a condition. A hysterectomy, in which a woman’s uterus is removed, is sometimes done for similar reasons [14]. These procedures can lead to low testosterone in women.

A mini lap was the most common type of female sterilization surgery performed, followed by lap. An LSCS was fairly uncommon

Switching to Non-Hormonal Birth Control Methods: What to Expect

Hormonal methods of birth control trick a woman’s body into not releasing an egg each cycle. When you stop taking the pill, your body’s hormones may need a little bit of time to find a new equilibrium. That may mean that a cycle may be oddly timed, be particularly strong, or be different in other ways. Preparing for those changes can be a good idea.

It can also be helpful to overlap methods of birth control. Some methods may need a bit of time to become fully effective. During that period, the chances of pregnancy may rise dramatically.

How To Choose the Right Birth Control Method for You

Certain methods of birth control are more effective statistically. However, the best form of birth control is the one that best fits your needs. As this is a decision that can potentially have life-changing consequences, it can help to think through your options ahead of time.

Factors to consider might include:

Future plans for children.
Other health considerations.
Comfort and ease of use.
Frequency of use.
Expense.
Reliability.

FAQ

What Is the Best Non-Hormonal Birth Control?

The most reliable form of non-hormonal birth control is sterilization. The non-permanent method with the highest success rate was the copper IUD.

What Is the Healthiest Form of Birth Control?

This can depend on several factors. Hormonal birth control pills are sometimes used to treat other conditions, for example. Copper IUDs may have the best mix of reliability and a low chance of side effects. If you have concerns, your doctor is the best person to ask.

Does Non-Hormonal Birth Control Work?

When used correctly, all of the methods we’ve outlined will work much of the time. The reliability of any form of birth control can vary.

Conclusion

While the pill has become the standard for birth control methods, it’s far from the only effective method. Many non-hormonal options are just as easy to use and reliable as hormonal birth control. Additionally, many have fewer side effects.

As with any health decision, however, statistics only go so far. Bringing a new life into the world is a big decision, and it’s usually a good idea to plan ahead. Using a reliable method of preventing pregnancy is essential and not a choice that should be made lightly.

References:

“Estrogen and Progestin (Oral Contraceptives): MedlinePlus Drug Information.” MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601050.html.
Barrier Methods of Birth Control, wa.kaiserpermanente.org/kbase/topic.jhtml?docId=hw138685.
“Toxic Shock Syndrome.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 18 Mar. 2020, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/toxic-shock-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20355384.
Posted under Health Guides. Updated 7 February 2020. +Related Content. “Contraception: Success and Failure Rates of Contraceptives.” Center for Young Women’s Health, 7 Feb. 2020, youngwomenshealth.org/2009/11/03/success-and-failure-rates-of-contraceptives/.
“Nonoxynol-9.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. PubChem Compound Database, U.S. National Library of Medicine, pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Nonoxynol-9.
S;, Craig S;Hepburn. “The Effectiveness of Barrier Methods of Contraception with and without Spermicide.” Contraception, U.S. National Library of Medicine, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6759027/.
Parenthood, Planned. “IUD Birth Control: Info About Mirena & Paragard IUDs.” Planned Parenthood, www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/iud.
“Copper IUD (ParaGard).” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 11 Feb. 2020, www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/paragard/about/pac-20391270.
Kaneshiro, Bliss, and Tod Aeby. “Long-Term Safety, Efficacy, and Patient Acceptability of the Intrauterine Copper T-380A Contraceptive Device.” International Journal of Women’s Health, Dove Medical Press, 9 Aug. 2010, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2971735/.
“Pelvic Inflammatory Disease – CDC Fact Sheet.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 19 Nov. 2020, www.cdc.gov/std/pid/stdfact-pid.htm.
“Vasectomy.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 19 May 2021, www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/vasectomy/about/pac-20384580.
“Tubal Ligation.” Johns Hopkins Medicine, www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/tubal-ligation.
“Prophylactic Oophorectomy: Preventing Cancer by Surgically Removing Your Ovaries.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 11 Aug. 2020, www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/oophorectomy/in-depth/breast-cancer/art-20047337.
“Hysterectomy | Endometriosis | Fibroids.” MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 26 May 2021, medlineplus.gov/hysterectomy.html.

Women’s Health Topics That Need To Be Talked About

March 10, 2021 by Eve Leave a Comment

As the new decade starts and the state of women’s health is considered, here are some of the top issues regarding women in 2020.

Better Birth Control Is Possible — And Necessary

Since birth control has been an incredible force in the lives of women, helping them achieve and even set long-term educational and career goals, as well as achieve gains toward economic parity with men; there is a taboo around talking about women’s health critically, for fear that it will be taken away, and the gains that come along with it. There needs to be more investment in the research and development of effective birth control. Hormonal birth control can influence the brain in ways that make women feel uncomfortable to acknowledge, including what a woman finds attractive in her mate and even how she responds to stress to some degree. It might be uncomfortable acknowledging the problems related to hormonal contraception while at the same time fighting to make it accessible, but it is a trade-off that should not have existed in the first place.

Most Vaginal Health Products Are Bogus

The messaging that the genitalia of a woman requires constant upkeep with special commodities such as special feminine washes, hair removers, douches, tighteners and wipes is mostly promoted by companies wanting to make women feel insecure so that they will buy something. If women’s genitalia really required special care, there is no way women would have evolved this way. It is a bad idea, in general, to rely on information from a source trying to sell you something.

Transgender Women Are Women

This is a very controversial topic, especially in the West, where they are not used to it, but it should never be so. From social analysis, it is clear that the issue stems from a lack of information on these matters. Coupled with the amount of misinformation that comes along with it, it is absolutely essential that this needs to be put out into the open more: transwomen are women.

Having a vagina is not what makes you a woman. It is how a person feels inside. Reducing a person who can think for themselves to their body parts is rude and absolutely shameful, but it happens, and it happens more with women, especially trans women. What such critics should understand at the end of the day is that parts are parts, and people are people.

Rethinking Menopause

When women in pre-woke mentality dominated agrarian societies exited reproductive age, it was considered as an upgrade, an entrance into a crucial phase of life. However, people today focus on treatments of menopause or a lack thereof. The modern way of viewing menopause is not the only way. Humans have been a long-lived species and have been engineered by evolution to live into our seventies and thrive in post-reproductive years.

Common Health Issues Among Women

March 10, 2021 by Eve Leave a Comment

Even though both men and women contract numerous health complications, some health issues affect women differently and more severely. Several health conditions of women go undiagnosed, and most drug trials do not include women test subjects. Women bear exclusive health concerns, like cervical cancer, breast cancer, pregnancy and menopause. Women suffer a greater risk of heart attack deaths when compared to men. Anxiety and depression are seen more frequently among female patients, and urinary tract conditions are more common among women. Sexually transmitted diseases can bring more harm to women. Among the diseases and conditions that frequently present in women, here are some of them that pose considerable health risks.

Heart Disease

Heart disease kills one in 4 women in the United States. Even though the public considers heart disease an issue commonly affecting men, the condition affects men and women almost equally. Yet, only 54% of women realize that heart disease is the most common health condition threatening them. In the US, 49% of consumers suffer from high cholesterol, high blood pressure or smoke, contributing to heart disease.

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer, typically originating in the lining of the milk ducts, can spread to other organs and is the most extensively aggressive cancer affecting the global woman population. The condition shows up more frequently among female populations in developed nations because of their extended life spans. Women who have breast cancer might develop breast lumps. Most lumps like these are non-threatening, but it is essential to have each one checked just to be sure.

Ovarian and Cervical Cancer

A lot of people are not aware of the differences between cervical and ovarian cancer. Cervical cancer affects the lower uterus, whereas ovarian cancer affects the fallopian tubes. Even though both conditions can cause severe pain, cervical cancer can cause discharge and pain during intercourse in addition. Even though ovarian cancer presents with extremely vague symptoms, the condition is quite complicated. Pap smears can help detect cervical cancer but not ovarian cancer.

Gynaecological Health

Discharge and bleeding are a normal part of the menstrual cycle. However, during menstruation, additional or unusual symptoms might indicate health issues like bleeding between menstruations or frequent urinating, which can mimic other health conditions. Vaginal problems can also indicate serious problems like sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or reproductive tract cancer. Even though care providers can treat mild infections quite easily. However, if this is left unchecked, such conditions can lead to conditions like infertility and kidney failure.

Pregnancy Issues

Pre-existing health issues can worsen during pregnancy, endangering the life of the mother and the child. Diabetes, depression and asthma can harm both the mother and child during pregnancy if not treated properly. Pregnancy can lead to a mother’s red blood cells to drop, causing a condition known as anaemia, or can even induce depression. When a reproductive cell implants outside the uterus, it can make further gestation unfeasible. Thankfully, obstetricians can treat common and rare health issues emerging during pregnancy quite effectively.

Nurx Review

March 10, 2021 by Eve Leave a Comment

Nurx has become a popular brand among women who do not have the time to make a doctor’s appointment every time they need solutions for their sexual health. Nurx provides an online consultancy for all sexual health-related issues while also providing quick solutions for them. Women can now order birth control and emergency contraception at home. They can also access quick PrEP and HPV screenings without an issue. Nurx is the first brand to become a go-to solution for affordable birth control and sexual healthcare.

Nurx has the best prices available for online contraception services. They charge a one-time consultation fee of $12 that gives access to all their products. You can also communicate with the physicians at Nurx for free after you have made your first payment. Nurx regularly helps its customers to save money by giving out coupons and free advice.

How does it work?

Nurx follows a very simple verification process that allows customers to access all their products and get them home delivered. First, Nurx offers a range of products that you can choose from. You can also connect with their medical team to find the right product for you. Once you have picked your products, you will need to answer a few questions. You can also enter your insurance information on the same page. At last, a physician will review your application and write you a prescription that you can reorder every time you run out of medication. There will be no delivery cost, and you will receive your products discreetly via a third-party delivery service.

Nurx Products

Nurx offers a range of contraception products, emergency contraception, HIV prevention, and HPV screening kits. You can take the help of their physicians to decide which product is right for you. Nurx will deliver all types of products to your home without making it awkward for you. It also saves you from visiting your pharmacist every time you seek medical supplies for your sexual health.

Nurx mobile app

Nurx is also available on both Android and iOS as a free app. The process on the app is similar to the website where you need to pick your products, fill-up the form, and receive your prescription. You can pick between “I know what I want” and “Help me find what’s right” to get the right medications for your health. The app will save your account. It also provides an automatic refill and renewal option to make sure that you are always protected.

Conclusion

Nurx is a strongly affordable solution for women who fear visiting a doctor and pay huge bills. It is easy-to-use and provides a user-friendly interface. The customers receive no judgment, and their packages are delivered discreetly. Plus, Nurx also accepts almost all types of insurances.

The only downfalls are that Nurx is still not available in all states. Nurx may not be the choice for you if you have a personal doctor already. They should also add to their platform as a direct chat option as the customers today need to call up their service to seek medical assistance. Overall it is a great tool for women who want to save time and money while taking care of their sexual health.

Best Birth Control Delivery Services

March 2, 2021 by Eve Leave a Comment

Birth control delivery services are finally becoming accessible for public use without the need for a prescription. Earlier, people could only purchase condoms and contraceptives without consulting a doctor. Today one can get the birth control products delivered at home by referring to some of the top birth control delivery services with a simple registration process. Online services are the modern method for the best birth control solutions. Here are the top birth control delivery services you can refer to while browsing online.

Nurx

Nurx is one of the licensed providers of birth control supply, delivering it to your home. A licensed professional will write the prescription, and the Nurx pharmacy will dispense a three-month birth control supply at your door. Nurx does not take prescriptions from other doctors. You can also find STI and herpes tests and treatment available at Nurx.

Prjkt Ruby

Prjkt Ruby offers 12 different oral contraception types and the Ella emergency contraception, delivering it to your home. You can create an account on their platform and find the contraception you are looking for. Fill up a simple form online for medical assessment before you can place your order. You may also require to have a video call with a physician based on your form.

Simple Health

Simple Health offers a doctor’s assistant while choosing the best type of birth control for you. You can begin ordering your birth control supply from the age of 13 (based on state law) and get the products delivered to your doorstep. You can also set automatic refills and cancel at any time. Simple Health also offers a general awareness blog that explores all areas of birth control.

Lemon-Aid Health

Lemon-Aid is available in every state, offering quick medical service for several health problems, including birth control, asthma, acne, and depressions. Lemon-Aid brings affordable healthcare to the country. You can pay cash for consultation and medication. If you have an insurance plan covering your medication, Lemon-Aid will send the prescription to your nearest pharmacy.

The Pill Club

The Pill Club is a single source for over 100 different birth control products. The platform offers free consultation after you answer some simple health questions. The medical team will assist you in finding the best birth control solution based on your health reports. You can also talk with your doctor and ask them to send a prescription to the Pill Club and get your package home delivered.

Pill Pack

Pill Pack is an online store for all medication needs offered by Amazon Pharmacy. Pill Pack connects directly with your doctor instead of offering their own medical tests. This helps you to order your prescribed medicines on time. Ordering birth control on Pill Pack is easy. You need your list of medications, doctor’s prescription and contact details, payment method, and address to make an order. You can also get monthly refills with free shipping.

How to Find a Free STD Clinic

February 27, 2021 by Eve Leave a Comment

It is always a safe way to get yourself, and your partner checked for STD before you begin your new relationship. STD testing and treatment centers can be available near your home. Getting a free STD check is a good choice for everyone. Free STD clinics can be located easily following a few important steps.

Call the local health department

The first step to finding a free STD clinic is to connect with your local health department and enquire about it. Most of the local STD clinics are run by the local or county health department. You can call the office to enquire about the clinics or visit their website to find the information for the same. Your local health department should tell you about all the local STD clinics and how you can get there in time. You can search for your local health department on the internet by inserting your locality information with the phrase “STD clinic” or “health department.”

Use the online portal

You can also refer to the ‘Get Tested’ web page that allows you to locate all the HIV testing locations using your zip code. Remember that every HIV testing clinic is not a free STD clinic. It will only test you for HIV and may not offer any tests for other STDs. However, an HIV testing clinic can be a good place to start your STD test. You can get referrals from the HIV testing clinic to find the nearest STD clinics. There are other similar websites that offer similar options.

Find a public hospital

Any public hospital and teaching hospital should be able to provide STD testing. However, it may not be free. The local public hospitals may run STD clinics for low-cost or for free, depending on the region. You can call up the nearest public hospital to ask whether they have an STD testing facility and whether it is free.

Getting tested for STD in a public hospital can take a long time due to the unavailability of the right staff or too many files. You may also not get the best doctor to help you with the tests. The repeated process can also stack up against your bills. It is suggested that you keep the public hospital as your last resort for STD testing.

Free university testing

Some of the universities or colleges may offer free STD testing at the school clinics. It is always necessary to call and ask whether the doctor offers STD testing. It will help you decide whether you want the test to be done at the school clinic or somewhere outside.

Online Options

Today, online testing has become an option for people to get their STD tests done online. However, online testing is not the best and accurate way to get results. Also, not all online STD tests are the same and may also charge you money. You should research an online test before you register or pay for it.