Gonorrhea Testing near me in St. Paul, Minnesota

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can affect anyone who is sexually active. However, certain groups are at a higher risk. According to the CDC, sexually active women under 25, men who have sex with men, and individuals with new or multiple sex partners should consider getting tested for gonorrhea. Additionally, individuals who have been diagnosed with other STIs, or those whose partners have been diagnosed with an STI, should also get tested.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for gonorrhea is crucial as it is often asymptomatic, meaning it does not always present noticeable symptoms. Left untreated, gonorrhea can cause serious health complications such as infertility in both men and women, increased risk of getting HIV, and can even spread to your blood or joints, which can be life-threatening. Moreover, pregnant women with gonorrhea can pass the infection to their babies during childbirth, leading to serious health issues for the newborn.

Gonorrhea testing options in St. Paul, MN:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics offer quick and convenient testing services for gonorrhea. For example, Compcare Occupational Medicine & Urgent Care in Eagan, MN, and AFC Urgent Care in Hopkins, MN, both offer highly-rated services and short wait times. You can book same-day and next-day testing appointments at these locations through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Your primary care provider can also test for gonorrhea. They can provide a comprehensive sexual health check-up and discuss any concerns you may have.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Free STD testing is available at various community health centers in and around St. Paul. These centers provide confidential testing and treatment services, often on a sliding fee scale based on income.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for gonorrhea are also an option. These kits can be ordered online, used in the privacy of your home, and then sent back to a lab for analysis.

Prevalence of gonorrhea in St. Paul

According to the CDC, the rate of gonorrhea in Ramsey County, where St. Paul is located, has been on the rise in recent years. This trend mirrors the national increase in gonorrhea cases. The rate in Ramsey County is higher than in nearby counties such as Gogebic County and Marshall County.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in St. Paul

Risk factors for gonorrhea in St. Paul include unprotected sex, new or multiple sex partners, previous or co-existing STI diagnoses, and being a man who has sex with men. The rise in gonorrhea cases may also be attributed to decreased condom use, increased urbanization and travel, lack of symptom recognition, and inadequate or failed treatment.

Other STDs in St. Paul

In addition to gonorrhea, other common STDs in St. Paul include chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis. Like gonorrhea, the rates of these STDs have also been increasing. It is important to get tested regularly if you are at risk, as many STDs can be asymptomatic. Regular testing will help ensure early detection and treatment, reducing the risk of serious health complications.