Gonorrhea Testing near me in Markham, Illinois

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

According to the CDC, individuals who are sexually active and not in a long-term, mutually monogamous relationship should consider regular gonorrhea testing. This is particularly important for those with new or multiple sex partners. Additionally, men who have sex with men, and pregnant women should also get tested for gonorrhea.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for gonorrhea is crucial as it is a common sexually transmitted infection, yet many people are unaware they have it due to a lack of symptoms. 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, potentially leading to infertility. Regular testing allows for early detection and treatment, preventing these complications.

Gonorrhea testing options in Markham, IL:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics are a convenient option for gonorrhea testing. Local MD Urgent Care in Homewood, IL is a highly rated clinic offering STD testing services. You can book same-day and next-day appointments through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are another option for gonorrhea testing. They can provide testing and treatment as part of regular check-ups or upon request.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Community health centers often offer free or low-cost STD testing, including for gonorrhea. These centers are a valuable resource for those without insurance or with limited financial means.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for gonorrhea are also available. These kits can be ordered online, used at home, and then sent to a lab for testing. Results are typically available within a few days.

Prevalence of gonorrhea in Markham

Markham, located in Cook County, IL, has experienced a rise in gonorrhea cases over recent years, mirroring a national trend. Comparatively, Cook County has a higher rate of gonorrhea infections than nearby counties such as Fulton County and Williams County.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in Markham

Risk factors for gonorrhea in Markham include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and previous or co-existing sexually transmitted infections. The prevalence of gonorrhea is also higher among young people aged 15-24.

Other STDs in Markham

In addition to gonorrhea, other common STDs in Markham include chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis. Chlamydia, like gonorrhea, has seen a significant increase in cases in recent years. It's important to note that having one STD can increase the risk of contracting another, emphasizing the importance of regular testing.