Gonorrhea Testing near me in Asheville, North Carolina

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

Anyone who is sexually active is at risk for contracting gonorrhea, especially those with multiple sexual partners or those who do not use condoms regularly. It is particularly important for sexually active women under 25, men who have sex with men, and individuals with HIV to get tested regularly, as these groups are at a higher risk. According to the CDC, annual testing is recommended for these high-risk groups.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for gonorrhea is crucial for both individual and public health. Early detection can prevent serious health complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease in women, infertility in both sexes, and an increased risk of contracting HIV. Furthermore, testing and treatment help to reduce the spread of the infection in the community.

Gonorrhea testing options in Asheville, NC:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care centers like Mercy Urgent Care, with locations on Patton Ave, Tunnel Rd, and Hendersonville Rd, offer same-day and next-day appointments for gonorrhea testing. These appointments can be easily booked through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are another reliable option for gonorrhea testing. Regular check-ups with a primary care provider can include STD testing and provide an opportunity to discuss any concerns about gonorrhea or other STDs.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Community health centers in Asheville and surrounding areas offer free or low-cost STD testing, making it accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits are a convenient option for those who prefer privacy or cannot easily access a healthcare facility. These kits can be ordered online, used at home, and sent back to a lab for analysis.

Prevalence of gonorrhea in Asheville

Asheville, located in Buncombe County, has seen a steady rise in gonorrhea cases over the years, mirroring the national trend. According to the CDC, Buncombe County reported higher rates of gonorrhea than nearby Madison, Raleigh, Fayette, Forsyth, and Wyoming counties. This could be attributed to various factors such as population density, sexual behavior, and access to healthcare.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in Asheville

Risk factors for gonorrhea in Asheville include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and previous or co-existing STDs. Young adults and adolescents are particularly at risk due to higher rates of sexual activity and lower rates of condom use.

Other STDs in Asheville

In addition to gonorrhea, other STDs such as chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis are prevalent in Asheville. Chlamydia, in particular, has higher rates than gonorrhea. Regular testing for all STDs is recommended for sexually active individuals, as many STDs can occur simultaneously, and having one STD can increase the risk of contracting another.