Gonorrhea Testing near me in Norfolk, Virginia

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that affects both men and women. It's crucial for sexually active individuals, especially those with multiple partners or those who do not consistently use protection, to get tested regularly. According to the CDC, sexually active women under the age of 25, as well as older women with risk factors such as new or multiple sex partners, should be tested annually. Men who have sex with men should also be tested at least once a year, though those with higher risk factors may need more frequent testing.

Importance of getting tested

Gonorrhea can cause serious health complications if left untreated, including infertility in both men and women, increased risk of getting HIV, and potential complications during pregnancy. Early detection and treatment can prevent these complications. Testing is the only sure way to know if you have gonorrhea, as many people with the infection do not have any symptoms.

Gonorrhea testing options in Norfolk, VA:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics offer a convenient option for gonorrhea testing. These facilities often have extended hours and can provide same-day or next-day appointments. One such clinic in the Norfolk area is CHKD Urgent Care in Chesapeake, VA, which has received positive reviews for its short wait time and friendly staff.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are another option for gonorrhea testing. They can provide testing as part of a regular check-up or during a specific visit for STI testing.

Free STD testing and community health centers

There are also community health centers and free STD testing sites in Norfolk that offer gonorrhea testing. They provide an important service for individuals who may not have insurance or who prefer a more anonymous testing experience.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for gonorrhea are another option. These kits can be ordered online, used at home, and then sent back to a lab for testing. Results are usually available within a few days.

Prevalence of gonorrhea in Norfolk

The prevalence of gonorrhea in Norfolk is a concern. According to the CDC, Norfolk city County, where Norfolk is located, has seen an increase in gonorrhea cases in recent years. This trend mirrors what is happening in nearby counties and cities, including Portsmouth, Chesapeake, Bayside, Hampton, and Carrollton.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in Norfolk

Risk factors for gonorrhea in Norfolk include having multiple sexual partners, inconsistent condom use, and having a previous or co-existing STI. These factors are similar to those seen in other areas of the country.

Other STDs in Norfolk

In addition to gonorrhea, other STDs such as chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis are also a concern in Norfolk. As with gonorrhea, regular testing is crucial for early detection and treatment of these STDs.

Remember, nearby urgent care centers and medical laboratories are good options for testing, and you can book same-day and next-day testing appointments at each through Solv’s website and mobile app. With 8 nearby locations to get tested at, getting checked for gonorrhea and other STDs is both convenient and crucial for maintaining your sexual health.