Gonorrhea Testing near me in Tigard, Oregon

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active can get gonorrhea, but it's most commonly found among people aged 15-24. Those with multiple sexual partners or those who don't use a condom consistently should consider getting tested. Additionally, men who have sex with men, and individuals with a previous history of any STDs are at a higher risk and should be tested regularly.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for gonorrhea is crucial as it often shows no symptoms, especially in women, leading to it being termed as a 'silent' infection. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems such as pelvic inflammatory disease in women and infertility in both men and women. Testing is the only sure way to know if you have gonorrhea, and early detection allows for effective treatment, reducing the risk of complications.

Gonorrhea testing options in Tigard, OR:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care centers like Dr. Hansel's Urgent Care in nearby Gresham offer gonorrhea testing. These facilities often have shorter wait times compared to traditional hospitals, and you can book same-day or next-day appointments through Solv.

Primary care providers

Your primary care provider can also conduct gonorrhea testing. If you don't have one, Solv can help you find trusted healthcare providers in Tigard and surrounding areas like King City and Tualatin.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Community health centers often offer free or low-cost STD testing. However, their hours may vary, and it's recommended to call ahead or book an appointment.

At-home testing

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

Prevalence of gonorrhea in Tigard

Tigard, located in Washington County, has seen a rise in gonorrhea cases in recent years, mirroring the national trend. This increase could be due to various factors, including increased testing and changes in sexual behavior.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in Tigard

Risk factors for gonorrhea in Tigard are similar to those at the national level. These include having multiple sexual partners, inconsistent condom use, and previous or co-existing STDs. Local factors, such as access to healthcare and public awareness about STDs, can also influence the spread of gonorrhea.

Other STDs in Tigard

In addition to gonorrhea, other STDs like chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis are also present in Tigard. Chlamydia, in particular, tends to have a higher prevalence rate. Regular testing is recommended as these infections can also be asymptomatic.