Gonorrhea Testing near me in Erie, Colorado

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active can get gonorrhea, but it is particularly prevalent among young people aged 15-24 years. It's important for individuals with multiple sexual partners, or those who have a partner with a diagnosed STD, to get tested regularly. Pregnant women should also get tested for gonorrhea as it can cause complications during pregnancy and can be passed to the baby during childbirth.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for gonorrhea is crucial as it often shows no symptoms, especially in women, but can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. These include pelvic inflammatory disease in women and epididymitis in men, both of which can cause infertility. Testing and early diagnosis allow for prompt treatment, usually a simple course of antibiotics, which can prevent these complications.

Gonorrhea testing options in Erie, CO:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics are a convenient option for gonorrhea testing. Carbon Health Urgent Care in nearby Westminster, CO is a highly-rated facility, known for its short wait times and friendly staff. You can book same-day and next-day testing appointments through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers can also perform gonorrhea tests. If you have a regular doctor, they can provide testing during a routine check-up.

Free STD testing and community health centers

For those with limited resources, free STD testing and community health centers provide an accessible option. It's important to check with each center about their testing capabilities as not all may offer gonorrhea testing.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits are also available for gonorrhea. These can be purchased online or at a pharmacy, and allow for privacy and convenience. However, it's important to ensure the test is FDA-approved for accuracy.

Prevalence of gonorrhea in Erie

Erie, being part of Boulder County, has seen a rise in gonorrhea cases over recent years, mirroring a national trend. According to the CDC, gonorrhea rates have been increasing in many parts of the country, including Colorado. However, Erie's rates are still lower than those in nearby cities like Lafayette and Louisville, and nearby counties such as Carbon County and Albany County.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in Erie

Risk factors for gonorrhea in Erie include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and previous or co-existing STDs. The rise in gonorrhea cases may also be linked to increased testing and changes in sexual behavior, such as decreased condom use.

Other STDs in Erie

Gonorrhea is not the only STD affecting Erie residents. Other common STDs include chlamydia, syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis. Chlamydia, in particular, has a higher prevalence rate than gonorrhea. As with gonorrhea, regular testing is crucial for these STDs, particularly for those in high-risk groups.