Syphilis Testing near me in Clayton, Missouri

Who should get tested for syphilis?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active can get syphilis, but it is particularly prevalent among men who have sex with men. Those who have unprotected sex, multiple partners, or a partner with syphilis are at a higher risk. Pregnant women should also be tested for syphilis, as it can cause complications during pregnancy and potentially serious health problems for the baby.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for syphilis is crucial because it often presents no symptoms in its early stages, yet it can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. These can include damage to the heart, brain, and other organs. Early detection and treatment can prevent these complications and stop the spread of the disease to others.

Syphilis testing options in Clayton, MO:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics provide quick and convenient testing services. Mercy Health- GoHealth Urgent Care in Kirkwood, MO, and St. Louis, MO are highly rated and offer same-day and next-day appointments through Solv.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are also a good option for syphilis testing. They can provide continuity of care and follow-up treatment if necessary.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Free STD testing is available at community health centers in and around Clayton. These centers provide confidential testing and treatment, regardless of ability to pay.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits are 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 Clayton

Clayton is located in St. Louis County, MO, where syphilis rates have been on the rise, according to the CDC. This trend mirrors the national increase in syphilis cases. Comparatively, nearby counties such as Fulton and Stewart also report high rates of syphilis, indicating that this is a regional issue.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Clayton

Risk factors for syphilis in Clayton include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and male-to-male sex. Other factors such as drug use and socioeconomic status may also contribute to the higher rates of syphilis.

Other STDs in Clayton

In addition to syphilis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis are also prevalent in Clayton and the surrounding areas. Regular testing for all STDs is recommended for those who are sexually active, especially if they have multiple partners or engage in unprotected sex.