Why STD Testing Is Important in Tijuana

Tijuana is one of Mexico’s busiest border cities, known for nightlife, cross-border movement, and medical tourism. Many U.S. visitors cross into Tijuana for healthcare because services are much cheaper than in the United States.

With a strong nightlife culture and proximity to the border, STD testing in Tijuana is especially relevant.

Local STD Statistics in Tijuana

• A 2021 study found that 39.6 percent of men who have sex with men and transgender women in Tijuana tested positive for at least one STI (chlamydia, gonorrhea, or syphilis).

• HIV prevalence among MSM nationally is 17.4 percent, with border cities often reporting higher rates.

• General adult HIV prevalence in Mexico is about 0.3 percent.

What STD Testing in Tijuana Includes

• HIV (rapid and ELISA confirmatory tests)

• Syphilis (VDRL or RPR blood test)

• Chlamydia and gonorrhea (PCR urine or swab)

• Hepatitis B and C (blood tests)

• Herpes (blood or swab if symptoms are present)

• HPV and Pap smears (for women)

Where to Get STD Testing in Tijuana

Private Hospitals

Hospital Ángeles Tijuana and SIMNSA Hospital provide comprehensive STD screening for both locals and U.S. travelers.

Border Clinics

Numerous clinics just across the San Ysidro border specialize in medical tourism and offer affordable testing, often same-day.

NGOs and Public Health

Community clinics offer HIV and STD testing at low or no cost, though they may have longer wait times.

Cost of STD Testing in Tijuana

• Rapid HIV test: 200–400 MXN (~$12–$25 USD)

• Basic STD panel: 1,000–2,200 MXN (~$60–$130 USD)

• Comprehensive panel: 3,000–5,500 MXN (~$175–$320 USD)

• Private hospital packages: 6,000–8,000 MXN (~$350–$465 USD)

Confidentiality and Privacy

• Most private hospitals and border clinics are used to dealing with U.S. patients and maintain confidentiality.

• Cash payments are accepted for those who want extra discretion.

• Some clinics offer bilingual staff and English reports for travelers.

Traveler Tips

• Many U.S. residents cross the border for same-day testing and treatment.

• Carry a passport for both border crossing and clinic registration.

• Ask about English-language test reports if you plan to use results for follow-up in the U.S.

Key Takeaways

• Tijuana’s border location makes STD testing accessible and affordable.

• Local stats show high infection rates in key populations, especially MSM.

• Costs are far lower than in the U.S., making Tijuana a popular medical tourism destination for sexual health services.