Syphilis Testing near me in Niles, Michigan

Who should get tested for syphilis?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active is at risk for contracting syphilis, but certain groups are more susceptible. 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, regular testing for syphilis is recommended. Additionally, pregnant women should also get tested for syphilis to prevent congenital syphilis, a severe, disabling, and often life-threatening infection seen in infants.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for syphilis is crucial as it is a highly contagious disease that can cause long-term complications if not treated promptly. According to the CDC, untreated syphilis can lead to damage to the brain, nerves, eyes, heart, blood vessels, liver, bones, and joints. These complications can occur many years after the initial infection. Regular testing allows for early detection and treatment, which can prevent these severe health issues.

Syphilis testing options in Niles, MI:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics are a convenient option for syphilis testing. Del Pilar Medical & Urgent Care in South Bend, IN, and Physicians Urgent Care in Mishawaka, IN, are two nearby locations where you can get tested. You can book same-day and next-day testing appointments at these locations through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Your primary care provider is another excellent resource for STD testing. They can provide you with a syphilis test during a routine check-up or at your request.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Free STD testing is available at various community health centers. These centers offer confidential testing and treatment services, often at low or no cost.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for syphilis are also available. These kits allow you to collect a sample at home and send it to a lab for testing. Results are usually available online within a few days.

Prevalence of syphilis in Niles

According to the CDC, the prevalence of syphilis in Niles and the wider St. Joseph County has been on the rise in recent years, mirroring a national trend. This increase emphasizes the importance of regular testing, particularly for those in high-risk groups.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Niles

Risk factors for syphilis in Niles are similar to those nationwide. They include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and male-to-male sex. Other contributing factors could include a lack of access to healthcare and low rates of condom use.

Other STDs in Niles

In addition to syphilis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis are also prevalent in Niles. Regular testing for these STDs is also recommended, particularly for those in high-risk groups. Testing locations mentioned above also offer testing for these STDs.