Syphilis Testing near me in Lake Norman of Catawba, North Carolina

Who should get tested for syphilis?

Anyone who is sexually active should consider getting tested for syphilis, especially if they have multiple partners or do not consistently use barrier methods of protection during sexual activity. According to the CDC, men who have sex with men, individuals living with HIV, and those with a partner who has been diagnosed with syphilis are at a higher risk and should get tested regularly. Pregnant women should also be tested for syphilis, as it can be passed to the unborn child, leading to severe complications or even stillbirth.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for syphilis is crucial as it often presents no symptoms in the early stages, yet can lead to severe health complications if left untreated. These can include damage to the heart, brain, and other organs. Early detection and treatment can prevent these complications and stop the spread of the infection to others.

Syphilis testing options in Lake Norman of Catawba, NC:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics provide convenient, same-day testing for syphilis. Novant Health- GoHealth Urgent Care in Huntersville and Salisbury, as well as AFC Urgent Care in Mooresville, are highly-rated options in the area. You can book appointments at these locations through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers can also conduct syphilis testing. If you have a regular healthcare provider, they can include syphilis testing as part of your routine check-up, especially if you are at high risk.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Community health centers often offer free or low-cost STD testing. These centers can be a valuable resource, especially for individuals without insurance or those seeking confidential testing.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits are another option for syphilis testing. These kits can be ordered online and used in the privacy of your own home, with results typically available within a few days.

Prevalence of syphilis in Lake Norman of Catawba

While specific data for Lake Norman of Catawba is not readily available, Mecklenburg County, where Lake Norman of Catawba is located, has seen an increase in syphilis cases in recent years, mirroring a national trend. This underscores the importance of regular testing, especially for those at higher risk.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Lake Norman of Catawba

Risk factors for syphilis in Lake Norman of Catawba are similar to those in other parts of the country. They include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, being a man who has sex with men, and living with HIV.

Other STDs in Lake Norman of Catawba

In addition to syphilis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis are also present in Lake Norman of Catawba. Regular testing for all STDs is recommended for sexually active individuals, especially those with risk factors.