Gonorrhea Testing near me in Lakewood, Ohio

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), anyone who is sexually active can get gonorrhea, especially if they have multiple partners. However, certain groups are at a higher risk. These include sexually active women under 25, men who have sex with men, and individuals with a history of other sexually transmitted diseases. If you belong to these categories or have recently had unprotected sex with a new partner, it is recommended that you get tested for gonorrhea.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for gonorrhea is crucial as it is a common sexually transmitted disease that can cause serious health problems if left untreated. According to the CDC, gonorrhea can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease in women, which can cause infertility. In men, it can lead to a painful condition in the tubes attached to the testicles, which can also cause infertility. Regular testing allows for early detection and treatment, preventing these complications and the spread of the disease to others.

Gonorrhea testing options in Lakewood, OH:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics are an excellent option for gonorrhea testing in Lakewood, OH. These facilities often offer same-day and next-day appointments, making it convenient for individuals to get tested. One such facility is Quickmed Urgent Care in nearby Strongsville, OH.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are another reliable option for gonorrhea testing. They can provide comprehensive sexual health services, including testing and treatment for gonorrhea and other STDs.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Community health centers in Lakewood, OH, offer free or low-cost STD testing, including gonorrhea. These centers provide confidential testing services, making them a valuable resource for individuals who may not have insurance or who prefer a more anonymous testing environment.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for gonorrhea are also available. These kits allow individuals to collect a sample at home and send it to a lab for testing. This option offers privacy and convenience, especially for those who may find it difficult to visit a clinic.

Prevalence of gonorrhea in Lakewood

Lakewood, located in Cuyahoga County, OH, has seen a steady increase in gonorrhea cases over the years, mirroring the national trend. According to the CDC, the county's gonorrhea rate is higher than the national average, highlighting the need for regular testing and education about safe sexual practices in the area.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in Lakewood

Risk factors for gonorrhea in Lakewood include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and previous or existing sexually transmitted infections. The city's proximity to larger urban areas like Cleveland may also contribute to the higher prevalence, as STD rates tend to be higher in urban areas.

Other STDs in Lakewood

In addition to gonorrhea, other STDs such as chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis are also prevalent in Lakewood. Regular testing for these STDs is recommended, especially for individuals at higher risk. Remember that you can book same-day and next-day testing appointments at nearby urgent care centers and medical laboratories through Solv’s website and mobile app.