Gonorrhea Testing near me in Athens, Tennessee

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), sexually active individuals, particularly those with multiple partners, should get tested for gonorrhea. This recommendation is especially pertinent for individuals aged 25 to 40, as this age group is often at higher risk. Additionally, those who have been previously diagnosed with an STD/STI, or whose partners have been diagnosed, should also consider testing.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for gonorrhea is crucial for several reasons. Early detection can prevent severe health complications such as infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and increased susceptibility to HIV. Moreover, identifying and treating gonorrhea helps to curb its spread within the community.

Gonorrhea testing options in Athens, TN:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics such as AFC Urgent Care in Athens and Cleveland, TN, offer gonorrhea testing. These facilities are highly rated and provide convenient, same-day or next-day appointments through Solv.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are another reliable source for gonorrhea testing. Regular check-ups with your primary care provider often include STD/STI screenings.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Community health centers in Athens, TN, and the surrounding areas offer free or low-cost STD testing. These centers are a valuable resource for those without health insurance or those seeking confidential testing.

At-home testing

At-home testing is a private and convenient option. These tests can be ordered online and typically involve a simple urine sample or swab.

Prevalence of gonorrhea in Athens

While exact figures for Athens, TN, are not readily available, the CDC reports that gonorrhea rates have been on the rise in many parts of the country. Comparatively, nearby counties such as Bullitt County, Madison County, and Washington County have seen similar trends.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in Athens

Risk factors for gonorrhea in Athens mirror those at the national level. These include being sexually active, having multiple sexual partners, previous STD/STI diagnoses, and inconsistent condom use.

Other STDs in Athens

In addition to gonorrhea, other STDs such as chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis are also present in Athens, TN. STD/STI testing at local healthcare providers often includes screenings for these diseases as well. It's important to get tested regularly to ensure early detection and treatment.