Syphilis Testing near me in Los Angeles, California

Who should get tested for syphilis?

The CDC recommends that anyone who is sexually active should consider getting tested for syphilis, especially if they have multiple partners or are in a relationship with someone who has tested positive. Pregnant women should also be tested, as syphilis can cause complications during pregnancy and can be passed on to the baby. People who engage in unprotected sex or share needles for drug use are also at a higher risk and should consider testing.

Importance of getting tested

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause serious health problems if left untreated. Early detection is crucial as it allows for prompt treatment, preventing the disease from progressing to more severe stages. According to the CDC, untreated syphilis can lead to damage to the brain, nerves, eyes, heart, blood vessels, liver, bones, and joints. Regular testing is an important part of maintaining overall sexual health and preventing the spread of syphilis.

Syphilis testing options in Los Angeles, CA:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

There are numerous urgent care and walk-in clinics in Los Angeles where you can get tested for syphilis. For instance, Carbon Health in Los Angeles and Endure Urgent Care in Culver City both offer STD testing services. These clinics often accept walk-ins and you can book same-day and next-day appointments through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Your primary care provider can also conduct a syphilis test during a regular check-up. If you don't have a primary care provider, there are over 225 locations in Los Angeles where you can get tested.

Free STD testing and community health centers

There are also free STD testing centers and community health centers in Los Angeles that offer syphilis testing. These centers provide services regardless of your ability to pay.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for syphilis are also available. These kits can be ordered online, used at home, and then sent back to a lab for analysis. The results are usually available online within a few days.

Prevalence of syphilis in Los Angeles

Los Angeles County has seen a significant increase in syphilis cases over the past few years. According to the CDC, the county has one of the highest rates of syphilis in the country. This trend mirrors a national increase in syphilis cases. The rise in cases may be due to a variety of factors, including increased testing and changes in sexual behavior.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Los Angeles

Certain behaviors and conditions can increase the risk of contracting syphilis in Los Angeles. These include having unprotected sex, having multiple sexual partners, and using drugs that are often associated with risky sexual behavior. The presence of other sexually transmitted infections can also increase the risk.

Other STDs in Los Angeles

In addition to syphilis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis are also prevalent in Los Angeles. The rates of these STDs are also higher than the national average. Regular testing for these STDs is recommended for sexually active individuals.