Gonorrhea Testing near me in Des Moines, Washington

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

According to the 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 previous gonorrhea infections or other sexually transmitted diseases. If you fall into any of these categories and live in Des Moines, WA, it's recommended that you get tested for gonorrhea.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for gonorrhea is crucial for several reasons. First, it can help prevent serious health complications, such as infertility in women and men, ectopic pregnancy, and an increased risk of getting HIV. Secondly, it can help stop the spread of the disease to others. According to the CDC, gonorrhea is the second most commonly reported infectious disease in the United States, so regular testing is essential to control its spread.

Gonorrhea testing options in Des Moines, WA:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics are a convenient option for gonorrhea testing in Des Moines, WA. These facilities often offer same-day or next-day appointments, which can be booked through Solv’s website and mobile app. One highly rated nearby clinic is Indigo in Federal Way, WA, known for its friendly staff and clean facilities.

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

For those without insurance or with limited financial resources, free STD testing and community health centers in Des Moines, WA, can provide affordable testing options.

At-home testing

At-home testing is another convenient option. Several companies offer at-home gonorrhea testing kits, which can be ordered online and mailed directly to your home. These kits typically include instructions for collecting a sample, which is then sent back to a lab for testing.

Prevalence of gonorrhea in Des Moines

Des Moines, located in King County, has seen a steady increase in gonorrhea cases over the years, mirroring the national trend. According to the CDC, King County's gonorrhea rate is higher than in nearby Lincoln County, Sherman County, and Wasco County, but lower than in Pierce County and Marion County.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in Des Moines

Several factors contribute to the prevalence of gonorrhea in Des Moines. These include a high rate of unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and a lack of regular testing. Additionally, certain demographic groups, including young people and men who have sex with men, are at a higher risk.

Other STDs in Des Moines

Gonorrhea is not the only STD affecting residents of Des Moines. Other common STDs include chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis. Similar to gonorrhea, these diseases are often spread through unprotected sex and multiple sexual partners. Regular testing is crucial for detection and treatment of these diseases.