Gonorrhea Testing near me in Columbia, Missouri

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active can get gonorrhea, particularly those with multiple sexual partners or those who don't use a condom consistently. However, certain populations are at a higher risk, including sexually active women aged 25 or younger, men who have sex with men, and individuals with a previous history of gonorrhea or other sexually transmitted infections. If you fall into any of these categories and live in or around Columbia, MO, it's strongly advised that you get tested.

Importance of getting tested

Gonorrhea is a common sexually transmitted infection that, if left untreated, can lead to serious health problems. For women, untreated gonorrhea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, which can result in infertility and ectopic pregnancy. Men can experience painful conditions in the tubes attached to the testicles, which can also lead to infertility. Regular testing is crucial in detecting and treating gonorrhea early, reducing the risk of these complications.

Gonorrhea testing options in Columbia, MO:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics offer a convenient option for gonorrhea testing. These facilities often have shorter wait times than traditional doctor's offices and many offer same-day or next-day appointments. In Columbia, MO, Express Care of JCMG is a highly-rated option with multiple locations in nearby Jefferson City.

Primary care providers

Your primary care provider is another option for gonorrhea testing. They can also provide comprehensive sexual health services, including counseling and preventive care. If you don't have a primary care provider, Solv can help you find and book an appointment with trusted healthcare providers in your area.

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 vital resource for those without insurance or those who can't afford testing at other facilities.

At-home testing

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

Prevalence of gonorrhea in Columbia

Columbia, located in Boone County, has seen a steady increase in gonorrhea cases over the past few years, mirroring a national trend. According to the CDC, Boone County's gonorrhea rates are higher than those in nearby counties such as Fulton, Johnson, Iowa, Warren, and Wayne. This suggests that residents of Columbia and surrounding areas should be particularly vigilant about regular testing.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in Columbia

The rise in gonorrhea cases in Columbia may be attributed to several factors, including a lack of consistent condom use, multiple sexual partners, and a lack of awareness about the importance of regular testing. Additionally, social factors such as access to healthcare and socioeconomic status can also play a role in the prevalence of gonorrhea.

Other STDs in Columbia

In addition to gonorrhea, other sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis are also prevalent in Columbia. Like gonorrhea, these infections can have serious health consequences if left untreated, further highlighting the importance of regular testing.