Gonorrhea Testing near me in Festus, Missouri

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

According to the CDC, individuals who are sexually active and between the ages of 15-24 should get tested for gonorrhea annually. This is particularly true for those with new or multiple sexual partners. Additionally, men who have sex with men, and pregnant women should also be tested for gonorrhea. It's important to note that gonorrhea can be asymptomatic, meaning you may not experience any symptoms but can still pass the infection to others.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for gonorrhea is crucial as it can lead to serious health complications if left untreated, including infertility in both men and women, increased risk of getting or transmitting HIV, and potentially life-threatening complications during pregnancy. Early detection through testing allows for prompt treatment, which can effectively cure the infection and prevent these complications.

Gonorrhea testing options in Festus, MO:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care centers and walk-in clinics such as Mercy Health- GoHealth Urgent Care in Fenton and Crystal City offer gonorrhea testing services. These facilities are often open beyond typical office hours, providing convenience for those with busy schedules. 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 conduct gonorrhea testing. This can be beneficial as they have a comprehensive understanding of your health history and can provide personalized advice and treatment.

Free STD testing and community health centers

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

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for gonorrhea are also available. These kits allow for privacy and convenience, as you can collect a sample at home and send it to a lab for testing. Results are typically available online within a few days.

Prevalence of gonorrhea in Festus

While specific data for Festus is not readily available, Monroe County, where Festus is located, has seen an increase in gonorrhea cases in recent years, mirroring national trends. This underscores the importance of regular testing, particularly for those at higher risk.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in Festus

Risk factors for gonorrhea include having multiple sexual partners, inconsistent condom use, previous or co-existing STDs, and being a man who has sex with men. These risk factors are not unique to Festus, but are relevant for the community.

Other STDs in Festus

In addition to gonorrhea, other STDs such as chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis are also present in Festus and surrounding areas. Regular testing for all STDs is recommended for those who are sexually active, particularly those with risk factors.

Remember, you can book same-day and next-day testing appointments at 22 nearby locations through Solv’s website and mobile app. The closest testing locations include Mercy Health- GoHealth Urgent Care in Fenton and Crystal City.