Gonorrhea Testing near me in Monroe, North Carolina

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), anyone who is sexually active can get gonorrhea, but it's most commonly found in individuals between the ages of 15 and 24. Those with multiple sexual partners or new partners, as well as individuals who don't use a condom consistently, should consider getting tested. It's also recommended for all sexually active women younger than 25 years, as well as older women with risk factors such as new or multiple sex partners, or a sex partner who has a sexually transmitted infection.

Importance of getting tested

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause serious health problems if left untreated, including pelvic inflammatory disease in women and epididymitis in men, both of which can lead to infertility. According to the CDC, it can also increase your risk of getting or giving HIV. Regular testing allows for early detection and treatment, which can prevent these complications.

Gonorrhea testing options in Monroe, NC:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics are a convenient option for gonorrhea testing. AFC Urgent Care in Indian Trail, NC, and Charlotte, NC, are highly-rated facilities that offer same-day and next-day appointments, which can be booked through Solv's website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers can also provide gonorrhea testing. If you have a regular doctor, they can often provide testing during a routine check-up.

Free STD testing and community health centers

There are also free STD testing and community health centers in Monroe, NC, that provide gonorrhea testing. These centers can be a good option for those without insurance or with limited financial resources.

At-home testing

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

Prevalence of gonorrhea in Monroe

Monroe, located in Union County, NC, has seen a steady increase in gonorrhea cases over the years, mirroring the national trend. The rates in Monroe are comparable to nearby cities such as Wingate, Unionville, Mineral Springs, Indian Trail, and Marshville. However, the rates are lower than in some nearby counties such as Raleigh County and Forsyth County.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in Monroe

Risk factors for gonorrhea in Monroe include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and being a young adult or adolescent. Socioeconomic factors such as poverty and access to healthcare can also contribute to the prevalence of gonorrhea.

Other STDs in Monroe

In addition to gonorrhea, other common STDs in Monroe include chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis. The rates of these STDs are also increasing, with chlamydia being the most common. Regular testing for all STDs is recommended for sexually active individuals.