Syphilis Testing near me in Baltimore, Maryland

Who should get tested for syphilis?

Anyone who is sexually active can get syphilis, but certain groups are at higher risk. These include men who have sex with men, individuals with multiple sexual partners, and those who engage in unprotected sex. If you fall into any of these categories, or if you've been notified by a partner that they have syphilis, it's recommended to get tested. Pregnant women should also be tested for syphilis as it can cause complications during pregnancy and can be passed to the baby, according to the CDC.

Importance of getting tested

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause serious health problems if left untreated. It's often called the 'great imitator' because its symptoms can resemble many other diseases. Early detection and treatment can prevent long-term complications. Moreover, knowing your status can help prevent the spread of the infection to others.

Syphilis testing options in Baltimore, MD:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care centers and walk-in clinics like AllCare Primary & Immediate Care and Lucielle Urgent Care offer syphilis testing. These facilities are known for their highly rated, friendly staff and clean environments. With 91 nearby locations to choose from, you can conveniently book same-day and next-day testing appointments through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Your primary care provider can also test for syphilis. If you're comfortable discussing your sexual health with your regular doctor, this can be a convenient option.

Free STD testing and community health centers

For those without insurance or who are underinsured, free STD testing and community health centers in Baltimore offer syphilis testing.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits provide another option for those who prefer privacy. These kits can be ordered online, used at home, and sent back to a lab for analysis.

Prevalence of syphilis in Baltimore

Baltimore City County has seen a significant rise in syphilis cases over the years. According to the CDC, the rate of syphilis in Baltimore is higher than the national average and also higher than nearby counties like Fayette County, Sussex County, and Morris County.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Baltimore

Risk factors for syphilis in Baltimore include having multiple sexual partners, engaging in unprotected sex, and being a man who has sex with men. Other factors contributing to the high prevalence of syphilis in Baltimore could be lack of access to healthcare, low awareness about the disease, and social stigma associated with STD testing.

Other STDs in Baltimore

In addition to syphilis, other STDs like gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis are also prevalent in Baltimore. The rates of these STDs are also higher than the national average and higher than nearby counties. It's important to get tested for all STDs if you're at risk, as they can often occur together.