Gonorrhea Testing near me in Athens, Texas

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active can get gonorrhea, particularly those with multiple sexual partners or those who don't use a condom. It's also recommended for all sexually active women younger than 25 years, as well as older women with risk factors such as new or multiple sex partners, or a sex partner who has a sexually transmitted infection.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for gonorrhea is crucial as it can cause serious and permanent health problems in both women and men. In women, gonorrhea can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can cause long-term pelvic pain and ectopic pregnancy. In men, it can cause a painful condition in the tubes attached to the testicles, possibly leading to infertility. Regular testing allows for early detection and treatment, reducing the risk of these complications.

Gonorrhea testing options in Athens, TX:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care centers like Complete Care in Tyler, TX, and ETMC Express are good options for gonorrhea testing. They offer same-day and next-day appointments, which can be booked through Solv's website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are another reliable option for gonorrhea testing. They can provide consistent follow-up and treatment if needed.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Community health centers in Athens, TX, offer free or low-cost STD testing, including for gonorrhea. These centers are an excellent resource for those without insurance or those who cannot afford testing.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits are also available for gonorrhea. These kits can be ordered online, used at home, and then sent back to a lab for analysis.

Prevalence of gonorrhea in Athens

The prevalence of gonorrhea in Athens, TX, is reflective of the broader trends in Henderson County and nearby counties like Hill County and Calcasieu Parish. According to the CDC, gonorrhea rates have been steadily increasing over the past few years, mirroring national trends. This rise could be attributed to factors such as increased testing and changes in sexual behavior.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in Athens

Risk factors for gonorrhea in Athens include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and previous or co-existing sexually transmitted infections.

Other STDs in Athens

In addition to gonorrhea, other common STDs in Athens include chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis. Like gonorrhea, these infections can be serious if left untreated, further emphasizing the importance of regular testing.