How to Get an STD Test in Puerto Vallarta: A Comprehensive Guide for International Travelers and Seasonal Visitors

By Mourad B. | May 12 2025

Navigating healthcare in a new city, especially for sensitive matters like Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) or Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) testing, can be daunting. This guide aims to provide clear, comprehensive information on how and where to get tested in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. We will cover everything from finding a doctor to understanding your results, including information on specific clinics like SETAC and CMQ Hospital.

Finding a Doctor and Initial Consultation

The first step in getting an STD test is usually consulting with a doctor. In Puerto Vallarta, you have several options. Many general practitioners and specialists are available. If language is a concern, there are resources such as our Nomadoc directory for seeking an English speaking doctor Puerto Vallarta. You can also find information through local expat forums. Some services might even offer a Doctor at your home in Puerto Vallarta for added convenience, though this might be less common for specialized testing.

During your consultation, be open with your doctor about your sexual history, any symptoms you might be experiencing, and your concerns. This will help them recommend the most appropriate tests. The doctor will explain the different types of STDs and the tests available to detect them.

Understanding STD Tests: Which Test for Which Case?

There are various STDs, and different tests are used to identify them. Here are some common ones and the tests typically involved:

• HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus): Blood tests are the most common way to detect HIV. Rapid HIV tests can provide results quickly, sometimes within minutes. SETAC in Puerto Vallarta offers free rapid HIV testing.
• Syphilis: Usually diagnosed through a blood test. SETAC also offers testing for syphilis.
• Gonorrhea and Chlamydia: These bacterial infections are often tested for using urine samples or swabs from the affected area (e.g., urethra, cervix, throat, or rectum).
• Hepatitis B and C: Blood tests are used to detect these viral infections that affect the liver.
• HPV (Human Papillomavirus): For women, HPV is often detected through a Pap smear (Pap test) which can identify abnormal cervical cells. For men and women, visual inspection for genital warts might be part of a screening, though specific HPV tests might require a specialist.
• Herpes (HSV-1, HSV-2): Can be diagnosed through a physical examination if sores are present, or through blood tests or a swab from a sore.

The specific tests your doctor recommends will depend on your individual circumstances, including symptoms, sexual history, and risk factors. It's important to discuss these with your doctor to ensure you get the appropriate screening.

Where to Get Tested in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta has several facilities where you can get STD testing:

• SETAC Puerto Vallarta: Located in the Zona Romantica, SETAC (Solidaridad Ed Thomas, A.C.) is a community and wellness center that provides various health services, including free rapid HIV and syphilis testing. They are a key resource for sexual health in the LGBTQ+ community but offer services to everyone. They can also provide counseling and guidance. Their office in Zona Romantica is at Lázaro Cárdenas 378-C and is open Monday through Friday from 4 pm to 8 pm and Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm.
• CMQ Hospitals: Hospital CMQ has multiple locations in Puerto Vallarta, including CMQ Hospital Premiere and CMQ Hospital City Center. Their Walk-In Clinic at Hospital CMQ City Center, located in Downtown Puerto Vallarta, offers a range of medical services, including STD testing. They state they have bilingual staff and advanced technology. You can find them at Basilio Badillo street.
• Clinical Laboratory Services at Hospitals CMQ: Hospitals CMQ maintain a full-service department of laboratory performing clinical analysis on blood, tissue and other body fluids: Sanlor Marina Laboratory. This lab provides services to in-hospital patients and external patients, offering tests to diagnose and treat diseases and monitor health. They have highly trained technicians and state-of-the-art facilities. Services include urinalysis, bacteriology, transfusion services, hematology, chemistry, immunology, coagulation, and toxicology. The laboratory operates as part of the Hospitals CMQ system, providing rapid access to clinical information. Patient orders, scheduling, and results are part of an electronic medical record. The Sanlor Marina Laboratory at Hospital CMQ City Center is open 24/7 for emergencies.
• Other Walk-in Clinics and Private Doctors: Puerto Vallarta has numerous private doctors and smaller walk-in clinics that may offer STD testing. It's advisable to call ahead or check their websites for specific services and to see if they have an English speaking doctor if needed.

When choosing a facility, consider factors like location, cost, the range of tests offered, and whether they have English-speaking staff if that's a requirement for you.

The Testing Process: What to Expect

Once you've consulted with a doctor and they've ordered the necessary tests:

1. Sample Collection: Depending on the tests, this might involve a blood draw, a urine sample, or a swab from the relevant area. The medical staff will guide you through this process.
2. Waiting for Results: The time it takes to get results will vary depending on the test. Rapid tests, like those for HIV at SETAC, can provide results within minutes. Other tests might take several days for the lab to process.
3. Receiving Results: Your doctor or the clinic will inform you of your results. It's crucial to follow up with them to understand the implications.

Costs and Timeframes

Costs can vary significantly based on the clinic, the number and type of tests performed. Here's a general idea, but it's best to inquire directly with the chosen facility:

• Doctor Consultation: This can range from a nominal fee at community clinics to higher charges at private hospitals. Some organizations like SETAC might offer free consultations for specific services.
• STD Tests:
  • Rapid HIV tests at SETAC are free.
  • A 4th generation HIV test at SETAC (if needed for more recent exposure) was mentioned at $150 pesos in one account, but this may vary.
  • Costs for other tests (syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, hepatitis, HPV) at private clinics or hospitals can vary widely. It's advisable to ask for a price list or estimate beforehand. Some sources suggest that a comprehensive panel could range from a few hundred to a couple of thousand pesos, but this is a very rough estimate.

Timeframes:

• Consultation and Testing: This can often be done on the same day or within a short period, especially at walk-in clinics.
• Results: As mentioned, rapid tests offer quick results. Lab tests might take several days. Plan accordingly if you have travel or other time constraints.

Understanding Your Results and Follow-Up

• Positive Results: If a test comes back positive, it's essential to discuss treatment options with your doctor. Many STDs are treatable, and early detection and treatment are key to preventing long-term health complications. You should also inform any sexual partners so they can get tested and treated if necessary. Confidentiality is paramount in these situations, and healthcare providers are trained to handle these discussions with sensitivity.
• Negative Results: If your results are negative, it's an excellent opportunity to discuss ongoing prevention strategies with your doctor. This might include safer sex practices and regular testing, depending on your lifestyle.

PEP and PrEP in Puerto Vallarta

• PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis): This involves taking antiretroviral medicines after a potential exposure to HIV to prevent becoming infected. According to information, PEP Puerto Vallarta is available at SETAC if you've had a high-risk exposure within the last 48-72 hours. It's crucial to seek medical advice immediately if you think you need PEP.
• PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis): This is a course of HIV drugs taken by HIV-negative people to prevent HIV infection. If you are at ongoing high risk of HIV infection, discuss with a healthcare provider whether PrEP is right for you. SETAC mentions that if you are negative and wish to take PrEP in Puerto Vallarta, you would need to undergo certain tests first.

General Puerto Vallarta Medical Care

While this guide focuses on STD testing, it's worth noting that Puerto Vallarta medical care is generally of a good standard, with many facilities catering to tourists and expatriates. For general health concerns or emergencies, Urgent care Puerto Vallarta services are available at various clinics and hospitals, including the previously mentioned CMQ Hospital Puerto Vallarta.

Conclusion

Taking care of your sexual health is important. Fortunately, Puerto Vallarta offers several options for STD/STI testing. By understanding the process, knowing where to go, and discussing your concerns with a healthcare professional, you can access the care you need. Remember to always practice safe sex and get regular check-ups as appropriate for your lifestyle.

Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and should not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Costs and availability of services may vary.