Gonorrhea Testing near me in Tempe, Arizona

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), everyone who is sexually active should consider getting tested for gonorrhea, especially those with multiple partners or those who have had unprotected sex. This is particularly important for individuals between the ages of 15 and 24, as this age group accounts for nearly half of all reported cases.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for gonorrhea is crucial because it is a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause serious health problems if left untreated, such as pelvic inflammatory disease in women and epididymitis in men, both of which can lead to infertility. Moreover, having gonorrhea increases one's risk of getting or transmitting HIV. Despite these risks, many people with gonorrhea do not experience symptoms, making regular testing essential for detection and treatment.

Gonorrhea testing options in Tempe, AZ:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics are convenient options for gonorrhea testing. NextCare Urgent Care, located at 914 N Scottsdale Rd, Tempe, AZ, is one such facility where you can book same-day or next-day appointments through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are also a reliable source for testing. They can provide comprehensive sexual health screenings, including gonorrhea tests, and can provide ongoing care and treatment if needed.

Free STD testing and community health centers

For those without insurance or who are unable to afford testing, free STD testing and community health centers provide an essential service. These centers often offer sliding scale fees based on income, ensuring everyone has access to necessary healthcare.

At-home testing

At-home testing is another option for those who prefer privacy. These kits can be ordered online, used at home, and sent back to a lab for results.

Prevalence of gonorrhea in Tempe

According to the CDC, Maricopa County, which includes Tempe, has seen a steady increase in gonorrhea cases over the past few years, mirroring a national trend. This increase could be due to a variety of factors, including increased testing and changes in sexual behavior.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in Tempe

Risk factors for gonorrhea include being sexually active, having multiple sexual partners, having a partner who has a sexually transmitted infection, and not using a condom during sex. These risk factors are prevalent in Tempe, contributing to the number of gonorrhea cases in the area.

Other STDs in Tempe

In addition to gonorrhea, other common STDs in Tempe include chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis. Like gonorrhea, these infections can lead to serious health problems if left untreated, further emphasizing the importance of regular testing.