Gonorrhea Testing near me in Wilmington, 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, especially if they have multiple partners. However, certain groups are at a higher risk. This includes sexually active women under the age of 25, men who have sex with men, and individuals with a history of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you fall into any of these categories and live in or around Wilmington, NC, it is recommended that you get tested for gonorrhea.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for gonorrhea is crucial for several reasons. First, gonorrhea can lead to serious health complications if left untreated, including infertility in both men and women. It can also increase the risk of getting or giving HIV. Secondly, many people with gonorrhea do not have any symptoms, meaning they may unknowingly spread the infection to others. By getting tested, you can ensure you receive the appropriate treatment and prevent further transmission of the disease.

Gonorrhea testing options in Wilmington, NC:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics offer quick and convenient gonorrhea testing services. FastMed Urgent Care in Leland, NC, for instance, has a friendly staff and short wait times, making it a reliable option for those in need of immediate testing.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers can also provide gonorrhea testing. If you have a regular doctor you see, they can usually perform the test during a routine visit.

Free STD testing and community health centers

For those on a tight budget, free STD testing and community health centers like Carolina Comprehensive Health Network in Leland, NC, offer affordable options.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits are another convenient option for gonorrhea testing. These can be ordered online and used in the privacy of your own home.

Prevalence of gonorrhea in Wilmington

According to the CDC, the prevalence of gonorrhea in Wilmington and the broader New Hanover County has been on the rise in recent years. This trend mirrors national and state-level trends, with gonorrhea rates increasing across the United States. Comparatively, nearby counties such as Forsyth County and cities like Murraysville and Leland also report similar increases in gonorrhea cases.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in Wilmington

Risk factors for gonorrhea in Wilmington include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and previous or co-existing STIs. The recent rise in gonorrhea cases could be attributed to a combination of these risk factors, as well as decreased condom use, increased urbanization, and changes in sexual behavior.

Other STDs in Wilmington

In addition to gonorrhea, other STDs like chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis are also prevalent in Wilmington. Similar to gonorrhea, these STDs also show increasing trends, underscoring the importance of regular testing for all sexually active individuals.

Remember, you can book same-day and next-day testing appointments at nearby urgent care centers and medical laboratories through Solv’s website and mobile app. With eight nearby locations to choose from, getting tested for gonorrhea and other STDs in Wilmington has never been easier.