Gonorrhea Testing near me in East Ridge, Tennessee

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active can get gonorrhea. However, certain groups are at a higher risk and should consider regular testing. These include sexually active women under the age of 25, men who have sex with men, and individuals with multiple sexual partners or those who have a partner with a known STD.

Importance of getting tested

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause serious health problems if left untreated, including infertility in both men and women. Moreover, having gonorrhea can increase your chances of getting or transmitting HIV. Regular testing allows for early detection and treatment, reducing the risk of complications and preventing the spread of the infection to others.

Gonorrhea testing options in East Ridge, TN:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care centers like Physicians Care in East Ridge, TN, offer confidential gonorrhea testing. These facilities often provide same-day appointments, which can be booked through Solv's website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are another reliable option for gonorrhea testing. They can provide comprehensive sexual health services, including testing and treatment for gonorrhea and other STIs.

Free STD testing and community health centers

For those without insurance or who prefer a more affordable option, free STD testing is available at community health centers in and around East Ridge.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for gonorrhea are also available. These kits provide privacy and convenience, allowing you to collect a sample at home and send it to a lab for testing.

Prevalence of gonorrhea in East Ridge

While specific data for East Ridge is not readily available, Tennessee has seen a significant increase in gonorrhea cases in recent years, according to the CDC. This trend aligns with national data, which shows a rise in gonorrhea cases across the country. It's important for residents of East Ridge and surrounding areas to consider regular testing, particularly given the proximity to larger cities like Chattanooga, where STI rates may be higher.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in East Ridge

Risk factors for gonorrhea include being sexually active, having multiple sexual partners, and having a partner with a known STD. Other factors that may contribute to the rise in gonorrhea cases in East Ridge could include lack of awareness about the importance of regular testing and limited access to sexual health services.

Other STDs in East Ridge

In addition to gonorrhea, other STDs such as chlamydia, syphilis, hepatitis, and HIV are also of concern in East Ridge and surrounding areas. Regular testing for these STDs is recommended for those at risk. Testing locations like Physicians Care in East Ridge and AFC Urgent Care in Chattanooga offer comprehensive STD testing services.