Gonorrhea Testing near me in Columbia, Tennessee

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), anyone who is sexually active can get gonorrhea, particularly those with multiple partners or those who have had gonorrhea before. It's especially important for sexually active women under 25, as well as older women with risk factors such as new or multiple sex partners, to get tested regularly. Men who have sex with men should also be tested for gonorrhea every year.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for gonorrhea is crucial, as it is a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause serious and permanent health problems in both women and men if left untreated. According to the Mayo Clinic, gonorrhea can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease in women, which can cause infertility. In men, it can cause a painful condition in the tubes attached to the testicles, which can also lead to infertility. Regular testing can help detect the infection early and prevent these complications.

Gonorrhea testing options in Columbia, TN:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics provide quick, convenient testing options. AFC Urgent Care in nearby Spring Hill offers STD testing services and has a 3.82 rating based on 111 reviews. You can book same-day and next-day appointments at AFC Urgent Care through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Your primary care provider can also test for gonorrhea. If you don't have a primary care provider, Solv can help you find one in your area.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Free STD testing and community health centers are also available in Columbia and nearby areas. These centers provide affordable testing options, especially for those without insurance.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits are also an option if you prefer privacy. These kits can be ordered online and come with instructions on how to collect a sample and send it back to a lab for testing.

Prevalence of gonorrhea in Columbia

While specific data for Columbia, TN is not readily available, according to the CDC, Tennessee has a high rate of gonorrhea compared to other states. Regular testing and awareness are crucial in controlling the spread of this STD.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in Columbia

Risk factors for gonorrhea include being sexually active, having multiple sexual partners, having a partner who has a sexually transmitted infection, and not using a condom during sex. Columbia residents with these risk factors should consider regular testing.

Other STDs in Columbia

In addition to gonorrhea, other common STDs in Columbia and nearby areas include chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis. Regular testing for all these STDs is recommended for those at risk.