Syphilis Testing near me in Ashland, Ohio

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. However, it's important to note that syphilis can also be transmitted through direct contact with a syphilis sore during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. People who have a partner with a syphilis diagnosis should also get tested. Pregnant women should be tested for syphilis as it can be passed from mother to child during pregnancy, potentially leading to serious complications.

Importance of getting tested

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause serious health problems if left untreated. It progresses in stages and can eventually lead to damage to the heart, brain, and other organs if not detected and treated early. However, syphilis is curable with the right medical treatment, making early detection through testing crucial. Regular testing is also important to prevent the spread of the disease to others.

Syphilis testing options in Ashland, OH:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics provide immediate access to syphilis testing. Quickmed Urgent Care in nearby Medina, OH, for example, offers STD testing services. You can book same-day and next-day testing appointments at Quickmed Urgent Care through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Your primary care provider can also perform a syphilis test. This can be a good option if you have a long-standing relationship with your provider and feel comfortable discussing your sexual health concerns with them.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Free STD testing is available at various community health centers. These facilities can be a good option for those without insurance or who are unable to afford testing costs.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for syphilis are also available. These kits provide privacy and convenience, as you can take the test at your own comfort and send the sample back to a lab for analysis.

Prevalence of syphilis in Ashland

Ashland, located in Wayne County, OH, has seen a rise in syphilis cases in recent years, mirroring national trends. While the exact number of cases can fluctuate year-to-year, the overall trend indicates a growing concern. Compared to nearby counties like Fayette and Indiana, Wayne County's syphilis rates are higher, underscoring the need for regular testing and awareness in the community.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Ashland

Risk factors for syphilis in Ashland include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and being a man who has sex with men. Additionally, individuals with HIV are at a higher risk of contracting syphilis.

Other STDs in Ashland

Syphilis is not the only STD of concern in Ashland. Other prevalent STDs include gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis. Like syphilis, these infections can lead to serious health complications if left untreated, further emphasizing the importance of regular testing.