Gonorrhea Testing near me in Arlington, Washington

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

Anyone who is sexually active can get gonorrhea, especially those who have multiple sexual partners or those who don't use condoms regularly. It's particularly important for people under the age of 25, as well as older individuals with risk factors such as new or multiple sex partners, or a sex partner who has a sexually transmitted infection, to get tested regularly. According to the CDC, men who have sex with men should also be tested annually for gonorrhea.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for gonorrhea is crucial because it is a common infection that, if left untreated, can cause serious health problems. For women, gonorrhea can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, which can cause long-term pelvic pain and ectopic pregnancy. For men, gonorrhea can cause a painful condition in the tubes attached to the testicles, which can lead to infertility if not treated. Regular testing allows for early detection and treatment, reducing the risk of these complications.

Gonorrhea testing options in Arlington, WA:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

In Arlington, WA, there are several urgent care and walk-in clinics where you can get tested for gonorrhea. Indigo in nearby Lake Stevens, WA, is a highly-rated option with sparkling clean facilities. You can book same-day and next-day testing appointments at Indigo through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Your primary care provider is also a good option for gonorrhea testing. If you don't have a primary care provider, Solv can help you find one and book an appointment.

Free STD testing and community health centers

There are also free STD testing and community health centers in and around Arlington, WA. These centers provide low-cost or free testing services, making them a great option for those without insurance or with limited income.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for gonorrhea are also available and can be a good option for those who prefer privacy. These kits can be ordered online, used at home, and then mailed to a lab for testing.

Prevalence of gonorrhea in Arlington

Gonorrhea is a common STD in Arlington, WA, and its prevalence has been on the rise in recent years. According to the CDC, Snohomish County, where Arlington is located, has seen an increase in gonorrhea cases. This trend mirrors the national trend, as gonorrhea rates have been rising across the United States.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in Arlington

Risk factors for gonorrhea in Arlington include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and previous or co-existing STDs. Young people, particularly those aged 15-24, are at highest risk, as are men who have sex with men.

Other STDs in Arlington

In addition to gonorrhea, other common STDs in Arlington include chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis. Like gonorrhea, these STDs can be serious if left untreated, but are manageable with early detection and treatment. Regular testing is the best way to detect these STDs early, and testing locations in Arlington, such as Carbon Health in Mill Creek, WA, and Lynnwood, WA, offer comprehensive STD testing services.