Syphilis Testing near me in Garner, North Carolina

Who should get tested for syphilis?

Any sexually active person can potentially contract syphilis, but it is particularly recommended for those who have multiple sexual partners, men who have sex with men, individuals with HIV, and those who have a partner who has tested positive for syphilis. Pregnant women should also be tested for syphilis, as it can be passed to the unborn child, potentially leading to serious complications or even stillbirth.

Importance of getting tested

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause serious health problems if left untreated, including damage to the heart, brain, and other organs. Early detection and treatment can prevent these complications. According to the CDC, syphilis can also increase the risk of acquiring HIV. It's important to note that syphilis does not always present symptoms in its early stages, so regular testing is crucial, especially for those in high-risk groups.

Syphilis testing options in Garner, NC:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Garner residents have access to several urgent care and walk-in clinics for syphilis testing, such as the AFC Urgent Care in nearby Raleigh. These facilities often offer same-day and next-day appointments, which can be booked through Solv's website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are another option for syphilis testing. Regular check-ups with a primary care provider can include STD testing, and these professionals can also provide guidance on prevention and treatment.

Free STD testing and community health centers

There are also community health centers in and around Garner that offer free or low-cost STD testing. These centers are a vital resource for those without insurance or those who cannot afford testing fees.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for syphilis are another option. These kits can be ordered online and used in the privacy of your own home, with results usually available within a few days.

Prevalence of syphilis in Garner

While specific data for Garner is not readily available, Wake County, where Garner is located, has seen a rise in syphilis cases in recent years, mirroring a national trend. This underscores the importance of regular testing and safe sexual practices.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Garner

Risk factors for syphilis in Garner are similar to those in other parts of the country. These include having multiple sexual partners, unprotected sex, men having sex with men, and having a sexual partner who is infected with syphilis.

Other STDs in Garner

In addition to syphilis, Garner residents should also be aware of other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis. These STDs are also prevalent and regular testing is recommended, especially for those in high-risk groups. Like syphilis, these STDs can also be tested for at the 22 nearby testing locations, including urgent care centers and medical laboratories.