Gonorrhea Testing near me in Columbia, Illinois

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active can get gonorrhea, an STD that can cause infections in the genitals, rectum, and throat. However, it is most commonly found in young people aged 15-24 years. Those at high risk include individuals with multiple sexual partners, those with a previous history of STDs, and men who have sex with men.

Importance of getting tested

Gonorrhea is often asymptomatic, meaning you could have the infection without showing any signs. If left untreated, it can cause serious health problems such as pelvic inflammatory disease in women, which can lead to infertility. In men, it can cause a painful condition in the tubes attached to the testicles, which can also lead to infertility. Regular testing is crucial for early detection and treatment, reducing the risk of complications and preventing the spread of the disease to others.

Gonorrhea testing options in Columbia, IL:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care centers and walk-in clinics offer quick and convenient testing services. One nearby location is Mercy Health- GoHealth Urgent Care in St. Louis, MO. You can book same-day and next-day appointments through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Your primary care provider can also conduct gonorrhea testing. If you don't have one, Solv can help you find a trusted healthcare provider in your area.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Community health centers often offer free or low-cost testing. However, it's important to check whether they offer gonorrhea testing specifically.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits are a private and convenient option. They can be ordered online, used at home, and sent back to a lab for analysis. Results are typically available within a few days.

Prevalence of gonorrhea in Columbia

Columbia, located in St. Clair County, IL, is not immune to gonorrhea. While specific data for Columbia is not readily available, the CDC reports that gonorrhea rates have been on the rise nationally, indicating a potential increase in local cases as well. Regular testing is crucial to monitor this trend and halt the spread of the disease.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in Columbia

Risk factors for gonorrhea in Columbia are consistent with those on a national level. These include being sexually active, having multiple sexual partners, having a previous history of STDs, and being a man who has sex with men.

Other STDs in Columbia

Other common STDs in Columbia include chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis. Like gonorrhea, these diseases may not always show symptoms but can have serious health consequences if left untreated. Regular testing for all STDs is recommended for those at risk.