Gonorrhea Testing near me in Bossier City, Louisiana

Who should get tested for gonorrhea?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), anyone who is sexually active can get gonorrhea, but it's most commonly diagnosed in people aged 15-24. Those who have multiple sexual partners, new sexual partners, or a sexual partner with a sexually transmitted infection (STI) are at a higher risk. Individuals who have had gonorrhea or other STIs in the past, or those who do not use a condom consistently and correctly, should also consider getting tested.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for gonorrhea is crucial as it can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. According to the CDC, in women, gonorrhea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can lead to long-term pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy, and infertility. In men, gonorrhea can cause a painful condition in the tubes attached to the testicles, which can lead to infertility if not treated. Furthermore, having gonorrhea increases your chances of getting or transmitting HIV.

Gonorrhea testing options in Bossier City, LA:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics are convenient options for gonorrhea testing in Bossier City. HealthCARE Express in nearby Shreveport, LA, is a highly-rated option. With a 5.0 rating based on 6 reviews, this clinic is trusted by the local community. Appointments can be booked same-day or next-day through Solv's website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are another reliable source for gonorrhea testing. They can provide confidential testing and treatment, along with counseling and education about STIs.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Free STD testing is available at community health centers in and around Bossier City. These centers often provide comprehensive sexual health services, including gonorrhea testing.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for gonorrhea are another convenient option. These kits can be ordered online, used in the privacy of your own home, and then sent back to a lab for analysis.

Prevalence of gonorrhea in Bossier City

Bossier City, located in Caddo Parish County, LA, has seen a rise in gonorrhea cases over the years, mirroring the national trend. The CDC reports that gonorrhea rates have increased across the United States, and Bossier City is no exception. Comparatively, the rates in Bossier City are higher than those in nearby counties such as Hill County and Washington County.

Risk factors related to gonorrhea in Bossier City

Several factors contribute to the prevalence of gonorrhea in Bossier City. These include a lack of consistent and correct condom use, multiple sexual partners, and low rates of testing and treatment.

Other STDs in Bossier City

In addition to gonorrhea, other STDs such as chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis are prevalent in Bossier City. The rates of these STDs are also higher in Bossier City compared to nearby counties and cities. Regular testing for these STDs is recommended for sexually active individuals, particularly those with multiple sexual partners.