Gonorrhea Testing near me in Bessemer, Alabama

Who should get tested for gonorrheas?

Anyone who is sexually active, particularly those with multiple partners, should consider getting tested for gonorrhea. This is especially true for those who do not consistently use condoms or other barrier methods during sex. According to the CDC, sexually active women under the age of 25, as well as older women with risk factors such as new or multiple sex partners, should be tested annually. Men who have sex with men should also get tested at least once a year, though those with multiple or anonymous partners should consider more frequent testing.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for gonorrhea is crucial as it is a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause serious health problems if left untreated. It can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease in women, which can cause infertility and ectopic pregnancy. In men, it can cause a painful condition in the tubes attached to the testicles, potentially leading to infertility. Furthermore, gonorrhea can increase your risk of getting or giving HIV. Regular testing allows for early detection and treatment, helping to prevent these complications.

Gonorrhea testing options in Bessemer, AL:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care centers such as Urgent Care for Children in Birmingham, AL, offer convenient, same-day testing for gonorrhea. These facilities often have extended hours, making it easier to get tested without an appointment. You can book same-day and next-day testing appointments at these locations through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Your primary care provider can also test for gonorrhea. If you're already comfortable discussing your sexual health with your primary care provider, this can be a convenient option.

Free STD testing and community health centers

There are also community health centers in Bessemer that offer free or low-cost testing for gonorrhea and other STDs. These centers are a great resource for those who may not have insurance or who are looking for a more affordable testing option.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for gonorrhea are another option. These kits can be ordered online, used at home, and then sent back to a lab for analysis. This can be a good option for those who value privacy and convenience.

Prevalence of gonorrheas in Bessemer

Gonorrhea is a common STD in Bessemer, AL, and the surrounding Jefferson County. According to the CDC, the rate of gonorrhea in Jefferson County is higher than the national average. Comparatively, nearby counties such as Webster County and Cherokee County have lower rates of gonorrhea.

Risk factors related to gonorrheas in Bessemer

Risk factors for gonorrhea in Bessemer include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and previous or co-existing STD infections. Socioeconomic factors such as lack of access to healthcare, lower income levels, and higher rates of incarceration may also contribute to the higher rates of gonorrhea in this area.

Other STDs in Bessemer

In addition to gonorrhea, other common STDs in Bessemer include chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis. Chlamydia is the most commonly reported STD in Jefferson County. The rates of HIV and syphilis, while lower than gonorrhea and chlamydia, are still significant and contribute to the overall STD burden in the area.