Syphilis Testing near me in Norfolk, Virginia

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. Those who have been diagnosed with another sexually transmitted infection, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, are also at a higher risk. If you are pregnant, it's important to get tested as syphilis can cause serious complications for both mother and baby. If you live in an area with a high prevalence of syphilis, like Norfolk, VA, regular testing is recommended.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for syphilis is crucial because it is often asymptomatic in its early stages, making it easy to unknowingly spread to others. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health complications, including damage to the heart, brain, and other organs. Moreover, syphilis increases the risk of HIV transmission. Regular testing allows for early detection and treatment, which can prevent these complications.

Syphilis testing options in Norfolk, VA:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care centers and walk-in clinics in Norfolk offer convenient, same-day syphilis testing. One such location is CHKD Urgent Care in Chesapeake, VA, known for its short wait time and friendly staff. You can book same-day and next-day testing appointments at these locations through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are another option for syphilis testing. They can provide comprehensive sexual health services, including testing for syphilis and other STDs/STIs.

Free STD testing and community health centers

There are also community health centers in Norfolk that offer free or low-cost STD testing. These centers are a valuable resource for those without insurance or those who cannot afford the cost of testing.

At-home testing

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

Prevalence of syphilis in Norfolk

According to the CDC, Norfolk has a higher prevalence of syphilis compared to other nearby cities and counties. This could be due to a variety of factors, including a lack of awareness about the disease, limited access to healthcare, and high rates of other STDs/STIs in the area.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Norfolk

Risk factors for syphilis in Norfolk include unprotected sex, having multiple sexual partners, and being a man who has sex with men. Other risk factors include having a history of other STDs/STIs and living in a high-prevalence area like Norfolk.

Other STDs in Norfolk

In addition to syphilis, Norfolk also has high rates of other STDs/STIs, including gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis. These diseases often occur together, and having one can increase the risk of getting another. Therefore, it's important to get tested for all STDs/STIs if you are at risk.