Syphilis Testing near me in Tega Cay, South Carolina

Who should get tested for syphilis?

Anyone who is sexually active is at risk for syphilis, but certain groups are more likely to contract the disease. These include men who have sex with men, individuals with multiple sexual partners, and those who engage in unprotected sex. If you belong to these groups or have been notified by a partner that they have syphilis, you should get tested. Pregnant women should also be tested for syphilis, as it can be passed to the unborn child, leading to serious complications.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for syphilis is crucial because the disease can cause serious health problems if left untreated, including damage to the heart, brain, and other organs. Early detection allows for effective treatment, usually with antibiotics. Moreover, knowing your status can help prevent the spread of the disease to others.

Syphilis testing options in Tega Cay, SC:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

There are several urgent care and walk-in clinics in and around Tega Cay where you can get tested for syphilis. Novant Health- GoHealth Urgent Care in nearby Huntersville, NC, and Carolina Plus Urgent Care in Rock Hill, SC, are highly rated options. Both offer same-day and next-day appointments that can be booked through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Your primary care provider can also test for syphilis. If you're already due for a check-up, it might be convenient to request a syphilis test during your appointment.

Free STD testing and community health centers

There are also community health centers that offer free or low-cost STD testing. These centers provide confidential testing services, regardless of your ability to pay.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for syphilis are another option. These kits can be ordered online, used in the privacy of your own home, and then sent back to a lab for analysis.

Prevalence of syphilis in Tega Cay

According to the CDC, the rate of syphilis in Mecklenburg County, where Tega Cay is located, has been increasing over the past few years. This mirrors a national trend, as syphilis rates have been on the rise across the United States. However, the rate in Mecklenburg County is still lower than in some nearby counties, such as Forsyth and Raleigh counties.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Tega Cay

Risk factors for syphilis in Tega Cay include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and being a man who has sex with men. The increase in syphilis rates in the area may be due to a combination of these risk factors, along with decreased condom use and increased use of drugs or alcohol, which can lead to risky sexual behavior.

Other STDs in Tega Cay

In addition to syphilis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis are also present in Tega Cay. The rates of these diseases have also been increasing in recent years. As with syphilis, testing is crucial for early detection and treatment of these STDs.