Syphilis Testing near me in Oak Lawn, Illinois

Who should get tested for syphilis?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active should consider getting tested for syphilis. This is particularly true for those with multiple sexual partners, men who have sex with men, and individuals with HIV. Pregnant women should also be tested, as syphilis can cause serious complications for both mother and baby.

Importance of getting tested

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause long-term complications if not treated. It is often called "the great imitator" because its symptoms can resemble other diseases. Early detection through testing can help prevent these complications and stop the spread of the disease.

Syphilis testing options in Oak Lawn, IL:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics offer a convenient option for syphilis testing. With over 125 locations in the Oak Lawn area, you can book same-day and next-day appointments through Solv. One highly-rated option is First Choice Immediate Care in nearby Chicago, known for short wait times and friendly staff.

Primary care providers

Your primary care provider can also test for syphilis. They can provide a comprehensive sexual health screening and discuss any symptoms or concerns you may have.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Community health centers often offer free or low-cost STD testing. Midwest Express Clinic in Cicero is a local option that has received positive reviews for its friendly staff.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits provide another convenient option. These kits can be ordered online, used in the privacy of your own home, and then sent to a lab for analysis.

Prevalence of syphilis in Oak Lawn

Oak Lawn, located in Cook County, has seen a rise in syphilis cases in recent years, mirroring a national trend. According to the CDC, the rate of syphilis in Cook County is higher than the national average.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Oak Lawn

Risk factors for syphilis in Oak Lawn include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and drug use. Men who have sex with men are particularly at risk, as are individuals with HIV.

Other STDs in Oak Lawn

Syphilis is not the only STD of concern in Oak Lawn. The area also has high rates of gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis. Like syphilis, these diseases can be detected through testing at local clinics, primary care providers, community health centers, or with at-home testing kits.