Gonorrhea Testing near me in University Place, Washington

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active can get gonorrhea, but it is particularly common among young people aged 15-24 years. Those with multiple sexual partners or a new partner, as well as men who have sex with men, are at a higher risk. If you fall into these categories or have previously been diagnosed with another STD, it's important to get tested for gonorrhea.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for gonorrhea is crucial as it can cause serious health problems if left untreated, including pelvic inflammatory disease in women and epididymitis in men, both of which can lead to infertility. Furthermore, gonorrhea can increase your risk of getting or transmitting HIV. Early detection through testing allows for effective treatment, usually with antibiotics, to prevent these complications.

Gonorrhea testing options in University Place, WA:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics offer convenient, same-day testing for gonorrhea. Mary Bridge Children's Urgent Care in nearby Gig Harbor and Tran Urgent Care & Wellness Centers in Tacoma are two such options. You can book an appointment at these locations 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 the University Place area.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Community health centers often offer free or low-cost STD testing. Check with local centers in University Place to see if they offer these services.

At-home testing

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

Prevalence of gonorrhea in University Place

University Place, located in Pierce County, has seen a rise in gonorrhea cases in recent years, mirroring national trends. Comparatively, the rate of gonorrhea is higher in University Place than in nearby counties like Lincoln and Sherman.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in University Place

Risk factors for gonorrhea in University Place include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and a history of other STDs. The young population and high mobility in the area could also contribute to the spread of gonorrhea.

Other STDs in University Place

In addition to gonorrhea, other STDs such as chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis are also prevalent in University Place. Chlamydia is the most common, with rates higher than both the state and national average. HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis, while less common, are still significant health concerns. Regular testing for all STDs is recommended for those at risk.