Gonorrhea Testing near me in Winston Salem, North Carolina

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active can get gonorrhea, but it's most commonly found in people aged 15-24. It's particularly important for sexually active women under 25, or older women with risk factors like new or multiple sex partners, or a sex partner who has a sexually transmitted infection, to get tested annually. Men who have sex with men should also get tested at least once a year. If you're in Winston Salem and fall into these categories, it's recommended you get tested.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for gonorrhea is crucial as it can cause serious health problems if left untreated, including pelvic inflammatory disease in women and epididymitis (a painful condition in the tubes attached to the testicles) in men. If pregnant, gonorrhea can cause complications such as premature delivery or low birth weight. Regular testing allows for early detection and treatment, helping to prevent these complications.

Gonorrhea testing options in Winston Salem, NC:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics are reliable options for gonorrhea testing in Winston Salem. One such location is AFC Urgent Care in nearby High Point, NC. With a 4.2 rating, it's a trusted healthcare provider where you can book same-day and next-day testing appointments through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Your primary care provider is also a good option for STD testing. They can provide a comprehensive sexual health check-up, including gonorrhea testing.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Community health centers in and around Winston Salem offer free or low-cost STD testing. These centers provide confidential testing services, making them a good option for those on a budget or those seeking privacy.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits are another option for those who prefer privacy. These kits can be ordered online, used at home, and sent back to a lab for testing. Results are usually available within a few days.

Prevalence of gonorrhea in Winston Salem

According to the CDC, the prevalence of gonorrhea in Forsyth County, where Winston Salem is located, is relatively high compared to other nearby counties like Raleigh County and Fayette County. The number of cases has been increasing over the years, mirroring the national trend.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in Winston Salem

Risk factors for gonorrhea in Winston Salem include having multiple sexual partners, inconsistent condom use, and previous or co-existing STDs. Young people aged 15-24 are particularly at risk.

Other STDs in Winston Salem

In addition to gonorrhea, other common STDs in Winston Salem include chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis. Similar to gonorrhea, these STDs also have high prevalence rates in the area, making regular testing important.