Syphilis Testing near me in Big Spring, Texas

Who should get tested for syphilis?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active can get syphilis, but it is more common among men who have sex with men. Individuals with multiple sexual partners, those who engage in unprotected sex, or those who have a partner with a known syphilis infection should consider getting tested. Pregnant women are also recommended to get tested for syphilis, as the infection can be passed to the unborn child, potentially leading to serious health complications.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for syphilis is crucial as it is a highly infectious disease 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. Moreover, an infected person can easily spread the disease to their sexual partners. Therefore, testing and treatment can also help control the spread of the infection in the community.

Syphilis testing options in Big Spring, TX:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics provide convenient, same-day testing for syphilis. Affordacare Urgent Care and Big Spring Urgent Care, both located in Big Spring, TX, offer syphilis testing. These clinics have highly rated staff and are known for their cleanliness. You can book same-day and next-day appointments at these clinics through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers can also test for syphilis. If you have a long-standing relationship with your provider, this may be a comfortable and convenient option for you.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Free STD testing is available at community health centers in and around Big Spring. These centers provide confidential testing and treatment services, often on a sliding fee scale based on income.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for syphilis are another option. These kits can be ordered online, used in the privacy of your home, and then sent to a lab for analysis. The results are usually available within a few days.

Prevalence of syphilis in Big Spring

In Big Spring, TX, the prevalence of syphilis is lower than the national average but higher than some nearby counties like McCulloch County and Tillman County. However, the rates have been gradually increasing over the past few years. This trend is similar to what is being observed at the national level, according to the CDC.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Big Spring

Risk factors for syphilis in Big Spring include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and men having sex with men. The presence of other sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis can also increase the risk of contracting syphilis.

Other STDs in Big Spring

In addition to syphilis, other common STDs in Big Spring include chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, and hepatitis. The prevalence of these STDs is also higher than in some nearby counties, highlighting the need for regular testing and safe sexual practices.