Gonorrhea Testing near me in Aberdeen, Maryland

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active can get gonorrhea, but it is most prevalent among young people aged 15-24 years. Those with multiple sexual partners or a new partner, as well as men who have sex with men, are at a higher risk. In Aberdeen, MD, residents who fall into these categories should consider getting tested, especially if they experience symptoms such as unusual discharge, pain during urination, or in women, irregular menstrual bleeding.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for gonorrhea is crucial as it can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. According to the CDC, in women, untreated gonorrhea can cause Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) which can lead to long-term pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy, and infertility. In men, it can cause a painful condition in the tubes attached to the testicles, potentially leading to infertility. Regular testing allows for early detection and treatment, reducing the risk of these complications.

Gonorrhea testing options in Aberdeen, MD:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care centers such as AllCare Primary & Immediate Care in Owings Mills, MD, and PM Pediatric Urgent Care in Timonium, MD, offer gonorrhea testing. These centers often have short wait times and friendly staff. You can book same-day and next-day testing appointments at these locations through Solv's website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers in Aberdeen and its nearby cities like Perryman and Havre de Grace also offer STD testing. It's often a good idea to discuss any sexual health concerns with your primary care provider, as they can provide comprehensive care and follow-up treatment if necessary.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Community health centers in Harford County offer free or low-cost STD testing, including for gonorrhea. These centers are a valuable resource for those without insurance or those looking for confidential testing.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for gonorrhea are also available. These kits can be ordered online, used in the privacy of your home, and then sent to a lab for testing. Results are usually available within a few days.

Prevalence of gonorrhea in Aberdeen

Gonorrhea is a common STD in the United States, and Aberdeen, MD, is no exception. While exact numbers for Aberdeen are not readily available, Harford County, where Aberdeen is located, has seen an increase in gonorrhea cases in recent years, mirroring national trends.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in Aberdeen

Risk factors for gonorrhea in Aberdeen are similar to those nationally. These include having multiple sexual partners, having a partner with a history of any STD, and inconsistent condom use. Young people, particularly those aged 15-24, are at a higher risk.

Other STDs in Aberdeen

In addition to gonorrhea, other STDs such as chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis are also present in Aberdeen. Chlamydia is particularly prevalent, with rates higher than both state and national averages. Regular testing for all STDs is recommended for sexually active individuals.