Syphilis Testing near me in Manchester, Missouri

Who should get tested for syphilis?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active is at risk for syphilis, especially those with multiple sexual partners. However, certain groups are at a higher risk, including men who have sex with men, individuals with HIV, and people who have a partner with syphilis. Pregnant women should also be tested, as syphilis can be passed from mother to child during pregnancy, potentially leading to serious complications.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for syphilis is crucial, as early detection can prevent serious health complications. If left untreated, syphilis can cause damage to the heart, brain, and other organs, and can even be fatal. Moreover, those infected with syphilis are more likely to contract HIV. Regular testing allows for early treatment, which can effectively cure the infection and prevent transmission to others.

Syphilis testing options in Manchester, MO:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care centers, such as Mercy Health-GoHealth Urgent Care in Kirkwood, MO and St. Louis, MO, offer syphilis testing. These facilities are convenient as they offer same-day and next-day appointments, which can be booked through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers can also conduct syphilis testing. If you have a regular doctor, they can be a valuable resource for testing and treatment.

Free STD testing and community health centers

There are also community health centers in and around Manchester that offer free or low-cost STD testing. These centers are a great resource for those without insurance or with limited financial means.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for syphilis are also available for those who prefer privacy. These kits can be ordered online, used at home, and sent back to a lab for analysis. Results are usually available within a few days.

Prevalence of syphilis in Manchester

While specific data for Manchester, MO is not readily available, St. Louis County, where Manchester is located, has seen an increase in syphilis cases over the past few years, mirroring national trends. According to the CDC, there were 115 reported cases of syphilis in St. Louis County in 2018, an increase from 85 cases in 2017.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Manchester

Risk factors for syphilis in Manchester are similar to those across the country. These include having multiple sexual partners, being a man who has sex with men, having HIV, and having a partner with syphilis.

Other STDs in Manchester

In addition to syphilis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis are also prevalent in Manchester and the surrounding areas. Regular testing for all STDs is recommended for anyone who is sexually active, especially those with multiple partners or those in high-risk groups.