Gonorrhea Testing near me in Conway, Arkansas

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), anyone who is sexually active can contract gonorrhea, but the risk is highest among people with multiple sexual partners or those who don't use a condom. It's particularly important for sexually active women under 25, 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, to get tested for gonorrhea. Men who have sex with men should also be tested regularly.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for gonorrhea is crucial because it can lead to serious health problems if left untreated, including pelvic inflammatory disease in women and epididymitis in men, both of which can cause infertility. In rare cases, untreated gonorrhea can also spread to your blood or joints, which can be life-threatening. Moreover, having gonorrhea increases your risk of getting or giving HIV. According to the CDC, gonorrhea can also increase a pregnant woman's risk of having a premature delivery.

Gonorrhea testing options in Conway, AR:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

For immediate testing, urgent care and walk-in clinics in Conway, AR, such as Baptist Health Urgent Care, are excellent options. These facilities typically offer same-day or next-day appointments, which can be booked through Solv's website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are another reliable source for gonorrhea testing. These professionals can provide comprehensive care, including testing for other STDs/STIs.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Community health centers in Conway offer free or low-cost STD testing, including for gonorrhea. These centers are a valuable resource for those without insurance or who are unable to afford testing.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for gonorrhea provide a convenient and private option. These kits can be ordered online, used at home, and sent back to a lab for results.

Prevalence of gonorrhea in Conway

While specific statistics for Conway are not readily available, Arkansas has seen a rise in gonorrhea cases in recent years, according to the CDC. This trend aligns with a national increase in gonorrhea cases. It's important to note that the actual number of gonorrhea cases may be higher, as many people with the infection don't have symptoms and therefore don't get tested.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in Conway

Risk factors for gonorrhea in Conway are similar to those in other parts of the country. These include being sexually active, having multiple sexual partners, inconsistent condom use, and having a history of other STDs/STIs.

Other STDs in Conway

In addition to gonorrhea, other common STDs/STIs in Conway and the surrounding areas include chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis. As with gonorrhea, regular testing is crucial for these infections, particularly for those in high-risk groups. Testing locations such as HealthCARE Express in Maumelle and Sherwood offer comprehensive STD testing services.