Gonorrhea Testing near me in Columbia, South Carolina

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

Anyone who is sexually active can get gonorrhea, but certain groups are at higher risk. According to the CDC, sexually active women under 25, men who have sex with men, and individuals with multiple sexual partners should get tested annually. Individuals who have been diagnosed with other STDs or have a partner diagnosed with gonorrhea should also get tested.

Importance of getting tested

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause serious health problems if left untreated. It can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease in women, which can result in infertility. In men, it can cause painful conditions in the tubes attached to the testicles, which can also lead to infertility. Regular testing is crucial for early detection and treatment, reducing the risk of these complications.

Gonorrhea testing options in Columbia, SC:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care centers and walk-in clinics offer quick and convenient testing services. One such center is the MEDcare Urgent Care in West Columbia, which is rated 1.2 based on 18 reviews. Another option is the AFC Urgent Care in Columbia, which holds a 2.0 rating from 13 reviews. Both locations offer same-day and next-day appointments through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Your primary care provider can also offer gonorrhea testing. If you're comfortable discussing your sexual health with your regular doctor, this can be a convenient option.

Free STD testing and community health centers

For those without insurance or with limited resources, free STD testing is available at community health centers. These centers provide confidential testing and treatment, regardless of your ability to pay.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits are another convenient option. These kits can be ordered online, used in the privacy of your own home, and then sent to a lab for analysis. Results are typically available within a few days.

Prevalence of gonorrhea in Columbia

Columbia, located in Lexington County, SC, has seen a rise in gonorrhea cases in recent years, mirroring a national trend. While Columbia's rates are lower than some nearby cities, they are higher than the national average. This underscores the importance of regular testing and safe sexual practices in the city.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in Columbia

Risk factors for gonorrhea in Columbia include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and previous or co-existing STDs. The city's high rate of gonorrhea may also be influenced by socioeconomic factors, as the disease is more common in urban areas and among individuals with lower income.

Other STDs in Columbia

In addition to gonorrhea, Columbia has high rates of other STDs, including chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis. These rates are higher than those in nearby counties, such as Forsyth County and Patrick County. Regular testing for all STDs is recommended for sexually active individuals in Columbia.