Gonorrhea Testing near me in Edwardsville, Illinois

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active can get gonorrhea, but it is most common among young people aged 15-24 years old. It is particularly recommended for those who have multiple sexual partners, a new sexual partner, or a partner who has a sexually transmitted disease. It's important to note that gonorrhea can be transmitted even when a partner shows no symptoms, so regular testing is crucial for those at risk.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for gonorrhea is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it can prevent the spread of the infection to others. Secondly, if left untreated, gonorrhea can lead to serious health complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease in women, which can cause infertility. In men, it can cause a painful condition in the tubes attached to the testicles, which can also lead to infertility. Regular testing allows for early detection and treatment, reducing the risk of these complications.

Gonorrhea testing options in Edwardsville, IL

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics provide quick and convenient testing options. One such clinic in the area is Express Medical Care in Fairview Heights, IL. You can book same-day and next-day testing appointments at this location through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are another good option for gonorrhea testing. They can provide a comprehensive sexual health check-up and can help manage any follow-up treatment if necessary.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Community health centers often offer free or low-cost STD testing. These centers are a great resource for those who may not have insurance or who are seeking affordable care.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits are also available for those who prefer privacy. These kits can be ordered online, used at home, and then sent to a lab for analysis.

Prevalence of gonorrhea in Edwardsville

Edwardsville, located in Madison County, IL, has seen a rise in gonorrhea cases in recent years, mirroring national trends. This increase emphasizes the importance of regular testing and safe sexual practices.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in Edwardsville

Risk factors for gonorrhea in Edwardsville are similar to those in other parts of the country. These include having multiple sexual partners, inconsistent condom use, and previous or co-existing sexually transmitted infections.

Other STDs in Edwardsville

In addition to gonorrhea, other common STDs in Edwardsville include chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis. These infections often occur together, so it's important to get tested for all of these if you are at risk. As with gonorrhea, testing for these STDs can be done at local urgent care centers, primary care providers, community health centers, or at home.