Syphilis Testing near me in South Houston, Texas

Who should get tested for syphilis?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active should consider getting tested for syphilis, especially if they have multiple partners or are in a relationship with someone who has tested positive for an STD/STI. Pregnant women should also be tested for syphilis, as it can have severe health impacts on the unborn child. Men who have sex with men are particularly at risk and should consider regular testing.

Importance of getting tested

Syphilis is a highly infectious disease that can cause serious health problems if left untreated, including damage to the heart and nervous system, and even death. Early detection through testing is crucial, as syphilis can be effectively treated with antibiotics if caught in the early stages. Regular testing is also important in preventing the spread of the disease to others.

Syphilis testing options in South Houston, TX:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care centers and walk-in clinics, such as AFC Urgent Care in La Porte, TX, offer syphilis testing. These facilities often have shorter wait times than traditional doctor's offices and can provide same-day or next-day appointments through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are another option for syphilis testing. Your regular doctor can order the test and provide follow-up care and treatment if necessary.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Community health centers and free STD testing clinics, such as Serenity Healthcare in Houston, TX, offer affordable testing options. These centers often offer sliding scale fees based on income, making testing accessible to all.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits are another convenient option, allowing individuals to take the test in the privacy of their own home. The samples are then sent to a lab for analysis, with results typically available online within a few days.

Prevalence of syphilis in South Houston

South Houston, located in Harris County, TX, has seen an increase in syphilis cases over the past few years, mirroring a national trend. According to the CDC, Harris County reported a higher number of syphilis cases compared to nearby counties such as Hill County and Calcasieu Parish.

Risk factors related to syphilis in South Houston

Risk factors for syphilis in South Houston include unprotected sex, having multiple sexual partners, and men having sex with men. The prevalence of other STDs/STIs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis in the area may also contribute to the risk of syphilis infection.

Other STDs in South Houston

In addition to syphilis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis are also prevalent in South Houston. Regular testing for all STDs/STIs is recommended for sexually active individuals, especially those with multiple partners or those in a relationship with someone who has tested positive for an STD/STI. Testing locations such as Memorial Hermann- GoHealth Urgent Care in Houston, TX offer comprehensive STD testing services.