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Glossary · STD Testing

Window Period

The window period is the interval between a potential exposure and the point at which a given test can reliably detect the infection — it differs by infection and by test method, which is why the CDC publishes testing-timing guidance. At-home services often state window periods on their test pages. Understanding that a too-early test can miss an infection is essential background; deciding when to test is a conversation for a clinician.

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